Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Today’s Mercedes-Benz A-Class hatchback is a far cry from the radical-yet-flawed original – the first A-Class was more of a small, five-seater MPV than a traditional hatch. As a premium compact hatchback it’s got a fight on its hands against the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series and even the Volkswagen Golf.

Now in its third generation, the A-Class remains the smallest model in the line-up to wear the three-pointed star badge and is now one of the best-selling cars in Mercedes’ range, buyers attracted by its sporty image.

Not that all A-Classes have the performance to match that perception, with entry-level A180 CDI versions packing a modest 1.5-litre diesel engine. Larger petrols and diesels are also available for those who want more speed.