Mercedes-Benz A-Class

The Mercedes A-class really is a wonderful small car in its latest iteration. It’s not the prettiest thing, but with a huge range of engines and lovely interior it makes a lot of sense.

• Comfort

  Most of the variants are firm to combat bodyroll - the ‘A' used to have stability issues but these days they handle brilliantly without too many downsides. They aren't actually fun as such, but certainly more than just capable. The long-wheelbase version is great for a small family, and the high-ish seating position is a boon for smaller drivers.

  

• Performance

  A never-ending supply of petrol and diesel engines. All perform admirably, although the smallest, a 1.6-litre diesel with 94bhp, can become short of mid-range pull. The two-litre petrol and diesels are the ones to go for with plenty of performance.

  

• Cool

  Has a pert kind of charm, but it's a bit practical to qualify for coolness.

  

• Quality

  Built to modern Merc standards in the latest versions, so after a few years in the wilderness, it is back in business. Solid materials usage, great quality, proven engines and drivetrains - a truly premium little car.

  

• Handling

  So it's never going to be as fluid as a Focus or even a Golf, but the A-class still manages to get around corners without too much fuss. Faster versions are too hard and engineered around a relatively high c-of-g, but there's surprising fun to be had.

  

• Practicality

  Sandwich flooring means the engine and drivetrain are mega-compact and tucked away from the driver, so the A-class feels like a mini MPV rather than a medium hatchback. Has 435litres of bootspace with the seats up and a Transit-tastic 1995litres with the 60/40 split fold rear seats flattened. The boot is also pretty mouthy if you've got odd shapes to transport.

  

• Running costs

  Emissions are excellent throughout the range since Mercedes has given the petrol and smallest diesel a package of CO2 lowering and fuel saving technologies (called BlueEFFICIENCY). So the 1.6 petrol BlueEFFICIENCY is in VED Band E (£110) while the 160 CDi BlueEFFICIENCY is in band C (£30). Diesels are still the ones to go to for economy - the 160 BlueEFFICIENCY returns over 60mpg and even the 'standard' 180 CDi returns 56.5mpg.