The Mercedes-Benz A-Class leads the pack when it comes to compact luxury. It was a model that for some time was exclusive to the European market but only recently made its debut into Canada.
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The A-Class is the brand’s smallest vehicle offering but packs a lot of punch. Its exterior is both assertive and aerodynamic, and it’s body is angled slightly forward, emphasizing its sleek appearance.
LED headlights are angled, giving the vehicle a bold stature. Dynamic Select allows for the selection of four drive mods that vary shift points, throttle response and steering feel. Choose between Eco, Comfort, Sport and create-your-own Independent.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class: Adaptive cruise control
Individualized suspension to all-four wheels allows for further comfort in a variety of road conditions. The driving experience in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is tailored further with adaptive cruise control that can stop and go in traffic as well as slow for offramp. There is also the ability to change lanes with the tap of a turn signal. Available park assist can also make those tight spaces less of a struggle.
Just as the contours of the A-Class’ exterior give it this confident and elegant aesthetic, so does the interior. Mercedes does not compromise one for the other. Equipped with dual 7-inch high-resolution digital displays, (as well as 10.25-inch upgrades), Mercedes has created a seamless digital integration into the dash.
Large circular dash vents allow for quality air circulation throughout the cabin. The option for 64-colour ambient lighting allows you to tailor the environment to suit your mood.
Heated front seats
Wireless charging as well as four USB-C ports ensure your devices always have juice. And the infotainment system in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so you can stay connected in style. MBUX is also by your side, allowing for easy voice control over features such as temperature or navigation.
Heated front seats, driver seat memory, panoramic sunroof and the option for Burmester surround sound enhance the cabin’s vibe.
Daring, edgy look
The sport package features 17-inch standard wheels, as well as 18 and 19-inch options as well. The night package features black rims that give the vehicle a more daring and edgy look.
Fitted with a 2.0 litre four cylinder engine, the sedan model offers 188 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. It features turbo power with seven speeds and four drive modes. The hatch option offers 221 turbocharged horsepower. Both are available in 4Matic all-wheel drive and offer a smooth drive with responsive handling.
I recently test-drove the Mercedes-Benz A-Class sedan and was impressed by its instant responsiveness. The drive was exhilarating and the cabin was very comfortable. The simulated leather seats were comfortable. And Mercedes has opted for simulated leather as the material is more durable and won’t crack like authentic leather will over the long run.
Limited trunk space
One of the negatives about the sedan is the limited trunk space. It seems that Mercedes has decided to sacrifice storage space at the expense of providing rear-seat passengers some added legroom. If storage is a must, the hatch is the better option for you.
The A-Class Hatch starts at $38,300 and the sedan at $37,300.
Daron Halajian received his bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Ryerson University. He has worked for American Express as a Travel and Lifestyle Consultant servicing elite clientele. He writes in both English and Armenian and his works have appeared in publications in Beirut, Los Angeles, Montreal and Toronto.
