Mercedes A200 CDI Avantgarde
After the elk test fiasco which blighted its launch in 1997, the original A-Class became a huge success. More than 85,000 baby Mercs have been sold in the UK, with 80 per cent of customers buying their first vehicle with a three-pointed star.
Slicker styling, improved engines, a more flexible interior and a stylish three-door body mean the A-Class is better than its predecessor in all respects. The changes have moved the game on with the baby Mercedes breaking new ground again.
After the elk test fiasco which blighted its launch in 1997, the original A-Class became a huge success. More than 85,000 baby Mercs have been sold in the UK, with 80 per cent of customers buying their first vehicle with a three-pointed star.
Now there's a newcomer on the scene aiming to continue the success. Cosmetically, it's similar to its predecessor and the distinctively angled D-pillar and one-box shape remain. But the smoother outline, smarter front grille, larger headlamps and a slanted rear give it a more aerodynamic look.
Instead of a long-wheelbase option, a stylish three-door version will join the five-door when the model arrives in the UK early next year. Those after space needn't be worried, though - the new car is 63mm longer than the outgoing LWB variant. Buyers will get a choice of petrol and diesel engines, and Auto Express got its hands on the 140bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel.
Two less powerful units - an 83bhp A160 CDI and a 109bhp A180 CDI - complete the range of oil-burners. For petrol fans, a new 193bhp A200 turbo engine, a normally aspirated 2.0-litre and smaller 1.5 and 1.7-litre units round off the line-up. With most of its torque available from only 1,600rpm, the new A200 CDI pulls strongly across the rev range. The manual six-speed gearbox makes it an excellent long-distance companion, too - although smooth shifts will require unhurried changes. Six ratios are standard on both the A180 and A200 CDI models, as well as the flagship A200 Turbo.
Others get a five-speed manual or the optional Autotronic - Mercedes' first CVT gearbox. While unmistakably a diesel, our car was refined and surprisingly quiet, even at motorway speeds. It's the pick of the range, blending effortless performance with economy of more than 50mpg.
New rear suspension and Mercedes' mechanical selective damping system ensure body roll is controlled and - elks take note - ESP stability control is standard. A wider track and increased wheelbase also help the ride and handling, but the A-Class is still no hot hatch.
However, a sport version of the A200 Turbo with a lower ride height and stiffer dampers will be available. The old car's biggest failing - interior quality - has been addressed. Classy soft-touch plastics abound and new switchgear gives a more grown-up feel.
To make best use of the increased cabin area, the split rear seats fold flat, with the squabs storing neatly under the bootfloor. Luggage capacity with the chairs in place is an impressive 435 litres, but the Easy-Vario-Plus option offers removable rear seats and a folding front passenger chair. It allows loads as long as 2.75m to be carried.
Prices are expected to rise, so an entry-level car will be around £14,000 - but considering the improvements, there should be no shortage of takers.
