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Mercedes' new A-Class improves on the looks of the previous generation, with smaller and more angular front lights, and smaller rear windows to make it seem more compact.
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Up front there are three engines for now. The cheapest is a 1.4-litre turbo petrol that feels a bit slow for a premium-hatch. There’s a 1.5-litre diesel, which is the most economical. It has a glacier-like turn of pace, but is a quiet way to cruise along a motorway
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The most potent engine on offer is a 2.0-litre petrol, which can get to 62mph from a standstill in 6.2 seconds. This is pretty fast, but is also the most expensive
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All cars come with a new seven-speed automatic which works well, and is smooth and easy to use. Expect a manual ‘box later on. Its ride is spot on too, and only deep potholes put it off its stride
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At the back the rear end is tidy looking, and it comes with a rear-parking camera. It also has faux-exhaust pipes
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The technology in top-spec A-Class cars is now on par with the lavish Mercedes S-Class. Top-spec (and most expensive) cars get twin 10.25-inch screens, making a massive entertainment system which is light years ahead of its competitors
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However, the interior gadgets come at a cost. You'll need the £2,395 Premium equipment line package, which adds twin 10.25-inch entertainment displays. Augmented reality sat-nav is another £495.
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Smaller windows means that not a huge amount of light is let into the rear, but, leg and head room is good for a car of this size.
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The boot is a big improvement on the previous generation A-Class as the loading area is wider and more accessible.
