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Mercedes-Benz A-Class A220 CDI (A) First Drive Review
27 Jul 2012|58,663 views
It's been a long time coming. The once boxy hatchback has been reshaped and tweaked from scratch to become a car that's an absolute visual feast. Where the past two generations of A-Class have been models of space and safety rather than style and driving dynamics, the new hatch from Mercedes-Benz has become much more of a match for premium compact hatches like the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3.
The concept car was first revealed in 2011 at both the Shanghai Auto Show and the New York Auto Show, where it caught the attention of journalists and fans from all over the world. Although the public was sceptical about the production of the car at first, signs of the marque's seriousness about making its next production A-Class surfaced when the concept car had feasible and realistic mechanicals such as a 2.0-litre, 210bhp four-pot powerplant from Daimler's new M270 range which drives the front wheels and was mated to a dual-clutch gearbox.
Exterior
It was only at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show when the smallest Mercedes was unveiled to the world, where changes were made mainly to the lights, bumpers as well as wing mirrors. As a result, the car looks, and represents, nothing less than a revolution for Mercedes-Benz.
With the presence of the dynamic BMW 1 Series and the upcoming Audi A3, Merc made a good decision in following its competitors' lead, producing a conventional front-wheel-drive hatchback. And it's really easy to see why the German marque is projecting so much confident in their new born baby.
The concept car was first revealed in 2011 at both the Shanghai Auto Show and the New York Auto Show, where it caught the attention of journalists and fans from all over the world. Although the public was sceptical about the production of the car at first, signs of the marque's seriousness about making its next production A-Class surfaced when the concept car had feasible and realistic mechanicals such as a 2.0-litre, 210bhp four-pot powerplant from Daimler's new M270 range which drives the front wheels and was mated to a dual-clutch gearbox.
Exterior
It was only at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show when the smallest Mercedes was unveiled to the world, where changes were made mainly to the lights, bumpers as well as wing mirrors. As a result, the car looks, and represents, nothing less than a revolution for Mercedes-Benz.
With the presence of the dynamic BMW 1 Series and the upcoming Audi A3, Merc made a good decision in following its competitors' lead, producing a conventional front-wheel-drive hatchback. And it's really easy to see why the German marque is projecting so much confident in their new born baby.
 |
The A-Class, if we may, is highly contemporary, with almost every part of its design meticulously sculptured. It does suggest that Mercedes-Benz is aiming the younger city dwellers who value a compact and high quality car, with an expensive and recognised nameplate.
 |  |
 |
Also inspired by the wind, waves and aircraft design, the sides of the car sport bold defined feature lines that give the A-Class structure, aggression and loads of tautness. These sculptural lines may be something that's the first in the Merc's current line-up, but the overall design gives the hatchback an instantly recognisable appearance that's much more expressive and progressive than both the 1 Series and the A3.
In terms of dimensions, the car sits firmly at 4292mm x 1780mm x 1434mm (L x W x H), 63mm shorter and just 4mm taller than the top-of-the-line A250 Sport. Comparing it to its predecessor, the figures for the length and width have also increased significantly, but the height has gone south. Again, this translates to a sleeker and lower hatch profile that will see the allure of the three-pointed star projecting into an untapped group of younger customers who have always favoured the 1 Series or the A3.
Interior
Once inside, you'll discover a lower driving position from that of the previous A-Class. It is generally more comfortable, with a lower and less upright feel to it. The aesthetics of the interior has also been 'beefed' up for a sportier atmosphere. From the bottom-shaved steering wheel and the sports pedals to the red stitching on the leather and the carbon fibre foil on the dash, you can hardly believe this is the successor of a hatch that was so boxy and dated.
Carbon fibre foil on the dashboard enhances the sporty atmosphere
In terms of dimensions, the car sits firmly at 4292mm x 1780mm x 1434mm (L x W x H), 63mm shorter and just 4mm taller than the top-of-the-line A250 Sport. Comparing it to its predecessor, the figures for the length and width have also increased significantly, but the height has gone south. Again, this translates to a sleeker and lower hatch profile that will see the allure of the three-pointed star projecting into an untapped group of younger customers who have always favoured the 1 Series or the A3.
Interior
Once inside, you'll discover a lower driving position from that of the previous A-Class. It is generally more comfortable, with a lower and less upright feel to it. The aesthetics of the interior has also been 'beefed' up for a sportier atmosphere. From the bottom-shaved steering wheel and the sports pedals to the red stitching on the leather and the carbon fibre foil on the dash, you can hardly believe this is the successor of a hatch that was so boxy and dated.
Carbon fibre foil on the dashboard enhances the sporty atmosphere More satisfying for drivers is the clean and clear high-mounted dashboard that is nicely finished and soft to the touch. The dials and controls are appealing too, which give a classier feel over some of its rivals without coming across as trying too hard.
Mercedes has also made advances with the technology in the A-Class. The test cars we drove came with the very best in navigation and connectivity options and that undoubtedly got our attention. One of the optional features is the comprehensive iPhone integration that will allow you or your passengers to operate the phone through a 14.7cm colour display screen. Although not the first in its class, the integration is seamless and user-friendly, easily placing the brand at the top in terms of its multimedia innovation.
Space wise, the A-Class doesn't disappoint too. Headroom hasn't been sacrificed despite the lower roofline and legroom is adequate, thanks to the generous wheelbase of 2,699mm. And although the car is best fitted with two at the rear, three can be seated at a push.
Boot capacity, however, remains to be hardly the best. At 341 litres, the A-Class loses out to the 1er and A3 which offers 360 litres and 365 litres respectively. Still, there is barely anything to complain about, considering it's possible to haul a couple of luggage without any fuss.
Boot space isn't class leading but it'll fit your luggage without much fuss
Mercedes has also made advances with the technology in the A-Class. The test cars we drove came with the very best in navigation and connectivity options and that undoubtedly got our attention. One of the optional features is the comprehensive iPhone integration that will allow you or your passengers to operate the phone through a 14.7cm colour display screen. Although not the first in its class, the integration is seamless and user-friendly, easily placing the brand at the top in terms of its multimedia innovation.
Space wise, the A-Class doesn't disappoint too. Headroom hasn't been sacrificed despite the lower roofline and legroom is adequate, thanks to the generous wheelbase of 2,699mm. And although the car is best fitted with two at the rear, three can be seated at a push.
Boot capacity, however, remains to be hardly the best. At 341 litres, the A-Class loses out to the 1er and A3 which offers 360 litres and 365 litres respectively. Still, there is barely anything to complain about, considering it's possible to haul a couple of luggage without any fuss.
Boot space isn't class leading but it'll fit your luggage without much fuss  |
The Drive
On the go, the A220 CDI puts on a peppy performance, thanks to outputs of 170bhp and 350Nm of torque. While it may not seem like much on paper, the diesel hatch certainly feels quicker due to the good spread of low-end torque. The new top diesel's 2.2-litre powerplant never once felt challenged, making its claimed 7.8 seconds century sprint timing very believable.
On the expressways where high speed driving is needed to keep up with the traffic, the Merc, when set to Eco mode, makes no pretence to be anything more than a competent and functional hatchback. It has adequate power and a flexible nature to keep the driver from putting on a frown. More relevantly, the car's significant improvement on its refinement has given it a more comfortable ride all round.
When toggled to Sport mode to tackle the winding roads of sunny Slovenia, the A220 is fluent and very eager to prove itself. The new-found dynamics, coupled with the linear delivery of power and accurate but light steering, provides a good balance of agility and aggression.
Thus, the handling is delectable, and has a nicely balanced feel even when rushed round corners. It never displays any signs of nervousness or untoward behaviour and will always deliver the goods with a sense of occasion. Credit also goes to the impressive-looking 18-inch shoes that were equipped to our test cars, behaving well at the limits of adhesion.
Impressive-looking size 18 shoes were fitted on our test cars
On the go, the A220 CDI puts on a peppy performance, thanks to outputs of 170bhp and 350Nm of torque. While it may not seem like much on paper, the diesel hatch certainly feels quicker due to the good spread of low-end torque. The new top diesel's 2.2-litre powerplant never once felt challenged, making its claimed 7.8 seconds century sprint timing very believable.
On the expressways where high speed driving is needed to keep up with the traffic, the Merc, when set to Eco mode, makes no pretence to be anything more than a competent and functional hatchback. It has adequate power and a flexible nature to keep the driver from putting on a frown. More relevantly, the car's significant improvement on its refinement has given it a more comfortable ride all round.
When toggled to Sport mode to tackle the winding roads of sunny Slovenia, the A220 is fluent and very eager to prove itself. The new-found dynamics, coupled with the linear delivery of power and accurate but light steering, provides a good balance of agility and aggression.
Thus, the handling is delectable, and has a nicely balanced feel even when rushed round corners. It never displays any signs of nervousness or untoward behaviour and will always deliver the goods with a sense of occasion. Credit also goes to the impressive-looking 18-inch shoes that were equipped to our test cars, behaving well at the limits of adhesion.
Impressive-looking size 18 shoes were fitted on our test cars The only complain we have is that the suspension proves to be too stiff for cruising on uneven roads. It doesn't settle well and when the going gets rough, each and every lump and bump is transmitted through the cabin.
It's never harsh to the point of being uncomfortable and we're aware that the German marque is, perhaps, very keen on providing the new born baby with a sporty image. But we can't help but to wonder if the firmness will be too tiresome for everyday driving.
Conclusion
The A-Class offers a radical driving experience over its predecessor by simply showing that it is well-rounded and competent in areas that matter most. Plus, with a contemporary and sporty styling, inside and out, it's bound to appeal to the younger crowd.
We wonder how the A45 AMG will be like…
It's never harsh to the point of being uncomfortable and we're aware that the German marque is, perhaps, very keen on providing the new born baby with a sporty image. But we can't help but to wonder if the firmness will be too tiresome for everyday driving.
Conclusion
The A-Class offers a radical driving experience over its predecessor by simply showing that it is well-rounded and competent in areas that matter most. Plus, with a contemporary and sporty styling, inside and out, it's bound to appeal to the younger crowd.
We wonder how the A45 AMG will be like…
It's been a long time coming. The once boxy hatchback has been reshaped and tweaked from scratch to become a car that's an absolute visual feast. Where the past two generations of A-Class have been models of space and safety rather than style and driving dynamics, the new hatch from Mercedes-Benz has become much more of a match for premium compact hatches like the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3.
The concept car was first revealed in 2011 at both the Shanghai Auto Show and the New York Auto Show, where it caught the attention of journalists and fans from all over the world. Although the public was sceptical about the production of the car at first, signs of the marque's seriousness about making its next production A-Class surfaced when the concept car had feasible and realistic mechanicals such as a 2.0-litre, 210bhp four-pot powerplant from Daimler's new M270 range which drives the front wheels and was mated to a dual-clutch gearbox.
Exterior
It was only at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show when the smallest Mercedes was unveiled to the world, where changes were made mainly to the lights, bumpers as well as wing mirrors. As a result, the car looks, and represents, nothing less than a revolution for Mercedes-Benz.
With the presence of the dynamic BMW 1 Series and the upcoming Audi A3, Merc made a good decision in following its competitors' lead, producing a conventional front-wheel-drive hatchback. And it's really easy to see why the German marque is projecting so much confident in their new born baby.
The concept car was first revealed in 2011 at both the Shanghai Auto Show and the New York Auto Show, where it caught the attention of journalists and fans from all over the world. Although the public was sceptical about the production of the car at first, signs of the marque's seriousness about making its next production A-Class surfaced when the concept car had feasible and realistic mechanicals such as a 2.0-litre, 210bhp four-pot powerplant from Daimler's new M270 range which drives the front wheels and was mated to a dual-clutch gearbox.
Exterior
It was only at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show when the smallest Mercedes was unveiled to the world, where changes were made mainly to the lights, bumpers as well as wing mirrors. As a result, the car looks, and represents, nothing less than a revolution for Mercedes-Benz.
With the presence of the dynamic BMW 1 Series and the upcoming Audi A3, Merc made a good decision in following its competitors' lead, producing a conventional front-wheel-drive hatchback. And it's really easy to see why the German marque is projecting so much confident in their new born baby.
|
The A-Class, if we may, is highly contemporary, with almost every part of its design meticulously sculptured. It does suggest that Mercedes-Benz is aiming the younger city dwellers who value a compact and high quality car, with an expensive and recognised nameplate.
| |
|
Also inspired by the wind, waves and aircraft design, the sides of the car sport bold defined feature lines that give the A-Class structure, aggression and loads of tautness. These sculptural lines may be something that's the first in the Merc's current line-up, but the overall design gives the hatchback an instantly recognisable appearance that's much more expressive and progressive than both the 1 Series and the A3.
In terms of dimensions, the car sits firmly at 4292mm x 1780mm x 1434mm (L x W x H), 63mm shorter and just 4mm taller than the top-of-the-line A250 Sport. Comparing it to its predecessor, the figures for the length and width have also increased significantly, but the height has gone south. Again, this translates to a sleeker and lower hatch profile that will see the allure of the three-pointed star projecting into an untapped group of younger customers who have always favoured the 1 Series or the A3.
Interior
Once inside, you'll discover a lower driving position from that of the previous A-Class. It is generally more comfortable, with a lower and less upright feel to it. The aesthetics of the interior has also been 'beefed' up for a sportier atmosphere. From the bottom-shaved steering wheel and the sports pedals to the red stitching on the leather and the carbon fibre foil on the dash, you can hardly believe this is the successor of a hatch that was so boxy and dated.
Carbon fibre foil on the dashboard enhances the sporty atmosphere
In terms of dimensions, the car sits firmly at 4292mm x 1780mm x 1434mm (L x W x H), 63mm shorter and just 4mm taller than the top-of-the-line A250 Sport. Comparing it to its predecessor, the figures for the length and width have also increased significantly, but the height has gone south. Again, this translates to a sleeker and lower hatch profile that will see the allure of the three-pointed star projecting into an untapped group of younger customers who have always favoured the 1 Series or the A3.
Interior
Once inside, you'll discover a lower driving position from that of the previous A-Class. It is generally more comfortable, with a lower and less upright feel to it. The aesthetics of the interior has also been 'beefed' up for a sportier atmosphere. From the bottom-shaved steering wheel and the sports pedals to the red stitching on the leather and the carbon fibre foil on the dash, you can hardly believe this is the successor of a hatch that was so boxy and dated.
Carbon fibre foil on the dashboard enhances the sporty atmosphere More satisfying for drivers is the clean and clear high-mounted dashboard that is nicely finished and soft to the touch. The dials and controls are appealing too, which give a classier feel over some of its rivals without coming across as trying too hard.
Mercedes has also made advances with the technology in the A-Class. The test cars we drove came with the very best in navigation and connectivity options and that undoubtedly got our attention. One of the optional features is the comprehensive iPhone integration that will allow you or your passengers to operate the phone through a 14.7cm colour display screen. Although not the first in its class, the integration is seamless and user-friendly, easily placing the brand at the top in terms of its multimedia innovation.
Space wise, the A-Class doesn't disappoint too. Headroom hasn't been sacrificed despite the lower roofline and legroom is adequate, thanks to the generous wheelbase of 2,699mm. And although the car is best fitted with two at the rear, three can be seated at a push.
Boot capacity, however, remains to be hardly the best. At 341 litres, the A-Class loses out to the 1er and A3 which offers 360 litres and 365 litres respectively. Still, there is barely anything to complain about, considering it's possible to haul a couple of luggage without any fuss.
Boot space isn't class leading but it'll fit your luggage without much fuss
Mercedes has also made advances with the technology in the A-Class. The test cars we drove came with the very best in navigation and connectivity options and that undoubtedly got our attention. One of the optional features is the comprehensive iPhone integration that will allow you or your passengers to operate the phone through a 14.7cm colour display screen. Although not the first in its class, the integration is seamless and user-friendly, easily placing the brand at the top in terms of its multimedia innovation.
Space wise, the A-Class doesn't disappoint too. Headroom hasn't been sacrificed despite the lower roofline and legroom is adequate, thanks to the generous wheelbase of 2,699mm. And although the car is best fitted with two at the rear, three can be seated at a push.
Boot capacity, however, remains to be hardly the best. At 341 litres, the A-Class loses out to the 1er and A3 which offers 360 litres and 365 litres respectively. Still, there is barely anything to complain about, considering it's possible to haul a couple of luggage without any fuss.
Boot space isn't class leading but it'll fit your luggage without much fuss |
The Drive
On the go, the A220 CDI puts on a peppy performance, thanks to outputs of 170bhp and 350Nm of torque. While it may not seem like much on paper, the diesel hatch certainly feels quicker due to the good spread of low-end torque. The new top diesel's 2.2-litre powerplant never once felt challenged, making its claimed 7.8 seconds century sprint timing very believable.
On the expressways where high speed driving is needed to keep up with the traffic, the Merc, when set to Eco mode, makes no pretence to be anything more than a competent and functional hatchback. It has adequate power and a flexible nature to keep the driver from putting on a frown. More relevantly, the car's significant improvement on its refinement has given it a more comfortable ride all round.
When toggled to Sport mode to tackle the winding roads of sunny Slovenia, the A220 is fluent and very eager to prove itself. The new-found dynamics, coupled with the linear delivery of power and accurate but light steering, provides a good balance of agility and aggression.
Thus, the handling is delectable, and has a nicely balanced feel even when rushed round corners. It never displays any signs of nervousness or untoward behaviour and will always deliver the goods with a sense of occasion. Credit also goes to the impressive-looking 18-inch shoes that were equipped to our test cars, behaving well at the limits of adhesion.
Impressive-looking size 18 shoes were fitted on our test cars
On the go, the A220 CDI puts on a peppy performance, thanks to outputs of 170bhp and 350Nm of torque. While it may not seem like much on paper, the diesel hatch certainly feels quicker due to the good spread of low-end torque. The new top diesel's 2.2-litre powerplant never once felt challenged, making its claimed 7.8 seconds century sprint timing very believable.
On the expressways where high speed driving is needed to keep up with the traffic, the Merc, when set to Eco mode, makes no pretence to be anything more than a competent and functional hatchback. It has adequate power and a flexible nature to keep the driver from putting on a frown. More relevantly, the car's significant improvement on its refinement has given it a more comfortable ride all round.
When toggled to Sport mode to tackle the winding roads of sunny Slovenia, the A220 is fluent and very eager to prove itself. The new-found dynamics, coupled with the linear delivery of power and accurate but light steering, provides a good balance of agility and aggression.
Thus, the handling is delectable, and has a nicely balanced feel even when rushed round corners. It never displays any signs of nervousness or untoward behaviour and will always deliver the goods with a sense of occasion. Credit also goes to the impressive-looking 18-inch shoes that were equipped to our test cars, behaving well at the limits of adhesion.
Impressive-looking size 18 shoes were fitted on our test cars The only complain we have is that the suspension proves to be too stiff for cruising on uneven roads. It doesn't settle well and when the going gets rough, each and every lump and bump is transmitted through the cabin.
It's never harsh to the point of being uncomfortable and we're aware that the German marque is, perhaps, very keen on providing the new born baby with a sporty image. But we can't help but to wonder if the firmness will be too tiresome for everyday driving.
Conclusion
The A-Class offers a radical driving experience over its predecessor by simply showing that it is well-rounded and competent in areas that matter most. Plus, with a contemporary and sporty styling, inside and out, it's bound to appeal to the younger crowd.
We wonder how the A45 AMG will be like…
It's never harsh to the point of being uncomfortable and we're aware that the German marque is, perhaps, very keen on providing the new born baby with a sporty image. But we can't help but to wonder if the firmness will be too tiresome for everyday driving.
Conclusion
The A-Class offers a radical driving experience over its predecessor by simply showing that it is well-rounded and competent in areas that matter most. Plus, with a contemporary and sporty styling, inside and out, it's bound to appeal to the younger crowd.
We wonder how the A45 AMG will be like…
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