Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2008-) Review

Comfort and Equipment

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Here's where the A-Class falls down: more modern rivals are now offering as much interior space, with more cabin versatility. The rear bench seat will really only accommodate two adults - the central perch is tiny - though at least those two have plenty of head- and legroom.

The three-door's rear seats can be folded flat, but this involves removal of the squabs (they can be stored in under-floor compartments), which is fiddly, and while the five-door's rear bench can be removed completely, it is heavy, and it can only be folded forwards onto its base thus limiting the load-bay options. Given the clever sliding/tumbling/flat-folding seats of cars like the Vauxhall Meriva, Nissan Note and Renault Modus/Grand Modus - all of which are considerably cheaper to buy - the A-Class now seems rather limited in its layout.

The cabin's a pleasant place to be, however, especially with the glass roof panels. Noise levels are generally low, though the diesels can be a bit noisy on start-up, and the ride generally good, though this does vary according to wheel/tyre choice. The front seats are well-shaped, and should prove supportive for long journeys or tedious city commuting.

Standard equipment includes air conditioning, a CD player, Bluetooth interface, front electric windows and all the necessaries; Classic SE models sit on 15" steel wheels, but Elegance SE versions add 16" alloys, as well as chrome exterior trim, nicer upholstery options, wood trim and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

Avantgarde SE models have brushed aluminium trim and different detailing. The Active Park Assist option is £550, and further options include the Comand APS control system with sat nav and voice controls. Comand is fiddly and not always intuitive, however, and the sat nav's not the smartest system.