With the A-Class, Mercedes sets out to distil all that's exciting, fresh and modern about its brand into one dynamically compact premium package - and the sales figures seem to suggest that it's succeeded. More than any other model in the company's range, it's the one that's most changed the marque's image in recent years. Once, Mercedes was merely known as a purveyor of traditional luxury: today, its products champion modern luxury. As any rival brand will tell you, the difference is important.
And what of this update to the fourth generation model? Well it's not especially far-reaching. But if you wanted an A-Class before, you'll probably want one even more now. Those who can afford the asking prices and like the driving experience will find this contender sporty, self-assured and possessed of a feel-good factor that really does make you feel special if you've specced your chosen variant correctly. Which is exactly what owning a car of this kind should be all about.

10.25" Digital instrument cluster display screen

Heated glass rear windscreen + timer control

DYNAMIC SELECT with a choice of driving modes (ECO, Comfort, Sport and Individual)

ISOFIX and top tether child seat fixing points in two outer rear seats

Driver and passenger head and side airbags

Alarm system/interior protection/immobiliser

Remote central locking and crash sensor with emergency opening function

Interior lighting - 64 colour Ambient lighting

17" 5 spoke light alloy wheels, aerodynamically optimised, painted in black with high sheen finish

Adaptive brake assist with hold function and hill start assist

Active brake assist includes forward collision warning system with autonomous braking

Childproof locks manually operated for rear doors and electrically operated for rear power windows

Air conditioning - One zone thermatic automatic climate control with automatically controlled air distribution

LED High Performance headlamps including integral LED daytime running lamps and adaptive highbeam assist

Headlamp assist automatic headlamp activation

Parking pack with 180 degree view - A Class

Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android auto

Mercedes me connect including emergency call system, accident recovery, breakdown and maintenance management

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage

Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years

Man Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years

Mercedes-Benz A Class

A180 Sport Executive 5dr Auto