Search Car Reviews



See all makes

Mercedes A160 CDI Classic SE

'A' good starting point

The C320 Sports Coupe is certainly an impressive piece of machinery, but what about those of us on a more down-to-earth budget?

By Chris Thorp

April 2003

The C320 Sports Coupί¿½ is certainly an impressive piece of machinery, but what about those of us on a more down-to-earth budget? If Mercedes ownership is your goal in life, then the new A160 CDI could be the answer. Priced ΂£14,215, it offers a frugal diesel engine and low running costs - but does it deliver real Mercedes appeal? We jumped behind the wheel to find out.

Powered by a 1,689cc four-cylinder engine, the A160 CDI offers only 75bhp - that's 20bhp less than the A170 CDI, which has a near-identical unit. The power drop is noticeable, with blunt performance made worse by intrusive diesel clatter. If you can endure that, 0-60mph takes 15 seconds - 2.9 seconds slower than the popular A170 CDI.

So why has Mercedes bothered? It's down to money. Fuel economy increases by 8.5 per cent to 62.8mpg, while CO2 emissions fall to 119g/km. In Classic SE trim, kit is generous by German standards, and includes air-con, ABS with brake assist, Electronic Stability Control and a CD player. The A-Class has always been well packaged, and this A160 feels more expensive than it is.

This mid-spec car is around ΂£900 cheaper than the equivalent A170, and there's never been a better value way to get into an oil-burning Merc - albeit one with an engine that lacks refinement.

Tell us about your car in our Driver Power survey.

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous   Next >

Sponsored Results

0 Comment

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.



Sponsored Results

- Advertisement -

Pictures

Sponsored Results

FIRST OPINION

    You can't argue with the savings on offer from this new A-Class oil-burner, but lacklustre performance and an old-fashioned diesel rattle will put off many buyers.
 
- Advertisement -