Mercedes Benz A-Class (1998-2005) Review

Overview

• Next: Reliability and Quality

Half hatchback, half people carrier, the five-seater A-Class offers extraordinary interior space, high-mounted seats and terrific versatility in a vehicle that's amazingly short. Until the Audi A2 - which offers significantly less space - came along, it was unique. The Mercedes badge has undoubtedly helped this unusual car gain acceptance, along with its appearance as an easyrent-a-car. In the eyes of many buyers the three-pointed star more than compensates for its varied flaws, most notably a poor ride, over-firm seats and sometimes disappointing quality - this despite its high price. Those used to the robustness of Mercedes' more traditional products should be aware that the A-Class is not built to quite the same standard, and that it doesn't withstand heavy use as well either. A minor facelift in 2001 addressed a number of these issues, but the A-Class is never going to win awards for its comfort, cornering ability or top-drawer quality. But it's easy to drive, hugely useful, prestigious and economical to run.

The facelift also saw the introduction of an optional stretched version of the car, this model providing more rear legroom than the Mercedes S-Class. The engine range includes an 80bhp 1.4, a 101bhp 1.6, a 123bhp 1.9 and a 140bhp 2.1, these all being petrol engines. The diesel choice includes a 75bhp 1.6 and a 94bhp 1.7.