Should You Buy A Mercedes A-Class? (Test Drive & Review W177)

[@bobmartin5101]

To be honest, its a fake leather interior. It has fake alcantara trim. The interior trim is laughable in some places. The Renault engine can be a bit arsey, the Mercedes customer service is real poor. The boot space is compromised because of the shape of the opening. Its more a Nissan Almera with a Merc badge, in all fairness. Residual values are quite poor, and its a wee bit underwhelming. I somewhat agree that it is bought predominantly by people who WANT the prestige badge, but cant afford the real deal, on a PCP. Car dealers love them, as they usually sell ok, and there is a steady supply coming off finance and PCP at a constant rate. Get: History, low miles, AMG spec, auto and a sensible colour. If you want one. Great video as always, thanks Mat.

[@minimoto99]

Mercedes has used faux-leather for years now. 'Artico' as they call it. Most people wouldn't know the difference. Most of the industry does the same. Lower costs, better for the environment. Can be harder wearing (unless your a 2015-2018 C-Class with the known issues of seams tearing). Makes sense on a car in this segment. There's always a paid option if you want the real thing. Owning two of them I wouldn't say the trim is laughable, interior is a masterclass in design for the segment (still looks great 6 years after launch) but it is more show than go in terms of build quality with some areas that do creak and rattle (go for a previous generation Audi A3 if you want rock solid build in a smaller car). The smaller Renault developed A180d diesel is a gem, super economical and pulls far above its on paper figures. Very reliable. I preferred it to my other A200 1.3 petrol (a Nissan/Daimler/Renault/Mitsubishi engine) which felt tinny. AMG models tend to have trim on the underside that catches on bumps far too easy, Sport models don't, even though they share the same suspension. Regardless of what trim you pick, the Executive option should be a minimum if buying. Without it you're settling for the small LCD's with the huge bezels, no parking sensors, no auto dim mirror etc.

[@jdmguy44]

There's nothing Nissan about it. The engine is a Renault developed unit

[@simonhodgetts6530]

I had a C Class with ‘pleather’. In the summer I might as well as been in my dads old mk3 Cortina estate. Wet back!

[@markbrennan4693]

Totally agree. Well said.

[@XLR8bg]

"Residual values are quite poor" I don't know about that one. When the new gen came out in 2019 they were starting from about £20k with an average discount applied. These days, 2019 A Class models sell around £15k. To be fair, that applies to quite a few models due to the chip shortage and inflation pumping up the "new" prices in the last 3 years so, but then again... quite a few other car models' value sank anyway. Overall, I'd say the A Class, in terms of residual value, is at least better than the average.

[@alwinrenny2132]

That county lines joke was Class-A

[@Z4ch1M]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@Tube-xn2jl]

No pun intended

[@sheaLawsonMcCusker]

lmao

[@danjones6279]

Or A-Class, of course

[@davidbannister7063]

😅😅

[@peterdoyle1994]

Please keep the "non pc" comments coming as they as they are not only very refreshing but also very funny!

[@brettseery6316]

I

[@windy2652]

It's NOT a "Renault engine" in the strictest sense. It came out of a design and development agreement between Mercedes and Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi - not a manufacturing agreement. Mercedes got a good deal out of this because Renault's small diesels are bullet-proof and more reliable than Mercedes' small engines. You only have to look at the number of Clio 2s still on the road with well over 200,000 miles on the clock. The Mercedes version of this engine was assembled by MDC Power GmbH in Kölleda, Germany, using components supplied by Renault. Mercedes machined the cylinders differently (special anti-friction treatment) and retained exclusive licensing for the "cylinder deactivation" technology.

[@markmundy3435]

Don't knock the french for their diesel engines, they've been slapping oil burners under the bonnet for longer than most, its the rest of the car they struggle with.

[@jamie-hb8gy]

They've been putting diesel engines in cars for years and are still crap,I wouldn't go near one ever.

[@geebee6737]

Shame they all p1ss oil everywhere.

[@jamie-hb8gy]

@@geebee6737 Yeah when they throw a rod.

[@sheaLawsonMcCusker]

@@jamie-hb8gy the peugeot xud and early hdi engine is just bulletproof

[@jamie-hb8gy]

@@sheaLawsonMcCusker XUD weren't to bad until the wrong pistons were put in a lot of them but HDI pffft!!! they were garbage.

[@lesfernandez888]

How can rattles and creaks on a 69 plate premium car be acceptable?

[@barry5138]

Mercedes premium?

[@Steven-f281]

I had 1 the creaking from the plastic trims inside was terrible . The air vents even creaked as the temperature was heating up . I sold it and bought a focus and believe it or not the focus is way better built

[@jdmguy44]

@@barry5138 They were pre 90's. Just living off badge image now.

[@jamesbirkenhead876]

​@@Steven-f281As someone who's owned a mk4 focus, it felt well built and had very little in the way of rattles and creaks. A newer E class I was in as a taxi once was littered with them. My old focus and the cupra leon I have now seem more solid. Poor considering merc is meant to be premium.

[@Steven-f281]

@jamesbirkenhead876 who'd of thought we'd be saying ford's are better built than mercedes . It just goes to show how low mercedes have gone . It's just a badge for the snobs now

[@maninthestreet01]

You can also operate the two screens using the black buttons on the control panels each side of the steering wheel. The buttons are touch sensitive, so you stroke up/down and left/right to navigate around the screens/menus, then push the button to select a menu item or function.

[@SleepyGarfield73]

A Mazda 3 is the thinking man's A Class. Also you don't get mistaken for a drug dealer in the Mazda.

[@LegalizeTheNuclearBomb]

The newer mazda 3 looks horrible

[@alexanderstefanov6474]

It's also a much better car

[@randomdaveUK]

Yes agreed 👏 Great car

[@Marsi777]

The Mazda 3 also has its share of squeaks and rattles

[@steve5772]

I always forget how much I like Mazda's. Apart from them, my taste in modern cars does seem to align with that of an urban herbalist

[@johnsmith5639]

Great review yet again Matt. I’ve gotten just over 80mpg on a run in the A180d which is ludicrously efficient. Underrated engine in my opinion.

[@ScipioAfricanus809]

I average high 60s without even trying.

[@ssstenning]

I've got an A250 AMG and owned it for 2 years done 20k miles in it without any issues other than replacing the battery which was expensive (£200) and new tyres (old ones not worn but age cracked as original fitment) I'm a semi-retired 62 year old and have owned approx 50 cars in my driving life (that I can remember) from most manufacturers and can say this is one of the best cars I've owned. The 224bhp engine pulls like a train, yes the ride is on the hard side but it's a sporty car so what do you expect. The interior is beautifully designed and I love the body shape. It's very practical with a tailgate with large boot space, I can fit my dad's mobility scooter in it. I regularly get 45-50mpg on a run more like 30 ish around town. I took mine to Mercedes today for the steering software recall only took an hour at no cost and they washed the car saving me a job also sent me one of those video report things they do bit crap really as not very detailed but gave the car a clean bill of health. Tip for rattling in back I found was rear seat belt fastener banged on the plastic trim, but if you place it in the provided hole at top of the side trim no more rattling from there at least, I would never had noticed this if I had not researched it online. I would normally be looking to change my car after 2 years but I think I'll stick with the Merc at the moment as it does everything I want and I don't think they make the more powerful model any more other than the A35/A45 and my boy racer days have long gone! I do a little bit of car collecting and delivering for a lease car company mainly higher end vehicles which brought my attention to this particular car. Keep 'em coming Matt!

[@ssstenning]

Not sure what your point is bud but people of my generation are careful with our money.

[@Dr.Jellyfingers]

They washed yours? I guess it wasn't Merc of Stockport that did your steering recall, they didn't wash my CLA the tight sods !! ​@ssstenning

[@ssstenning]

Chehire Oaks

[@Suffolkman1961]

Just love it that you could not resist having a little snipe comment at the end! Love it!

[@nickwoods9147]

The A class is a joint venture with Nissan Renault,not only the power units but also the floor pan and suspension.I think the low stance and small windows is a minus.

[@jdmguy44]

Not true to say it's a joint venture with Renault/Nissan. Apart from the engine the car is Mercedes from the ground up and built by them too

[@nickwoods9147]

@@jdmguy44 Well thats what my customers and friends tell me at Nissan Sunderland,the failed Infiniti assembled by them also has parts in common with the A class.In fact the Renault 1.5 diesel has been in production since the 1990s and well proven.Its cast iron cylinder block ensures long life.The average A class would be especially pissed off to know how much of his/her pride and joy is shared by Dacia.

[@alansorbie4038]

I’m a bit of a believer that cars should be rear wheel drive but did look at an A35 AMG a few years ago. It was huge fun but not very comfortable and I’d either have had no driving license or a massive crash within a few weeks. So I bought a comfy, old man spec C class instead. At the last service they gave me an A200 as a courtesy car and despite it being driven by the wrong wheels, I have to say I really liked it.

[@connclissmann6514]

Thanks. My daughter has had hers for about 3 years and is very happy with it. Having seen the video, I will remind her about a gearbox service.

[@AlexRemus]

The 2.0l BMW diesel is head and shoulders above the 1.5 dci and the 1.6 TDI. And the 1.33l petrol from Renault is crap.

[@J2002-q9x]

The 1.33 petrol from Renault is reliable, fuel efficiënt, quiet and offers a lot of torque at low rpm. No idea what your problem is with it

[@825rpd]

I have the 1.3 tce in my kadjar the 160 one. I have had no problems with it at all. It's lightweight, zippy, and frugal. The problem with both Mercedes and Renault isn't with engines. It's poor quality interior and some poor quality surrounding parts.

[@MrSparklespring]

On the contrary. The 1.3 engine from Renault is top notch!

[@ytlurker220]

Have to agree with the 3 above, the 1.3 in my Kadjar is a pleasure to drive and so efficient. And part of the engineering was done by Mercedes.

[@timcollins380]

Agree 100%. I own a European service and repair shop in Australia and we see many 2.0 BMW turbo diesels engines with 250,000km + which have had regular oil changes and maintenance on 420d, 320d etc. Its a great engine.

[@Shaggy12321]

You don't get a "contrasting spoiler" or "fins on the rear bumper" with AMG-LIne, you only get those with the non-aero pack A35 and A45, and even then you have to add the fins extra. This car has aftermarket mods on it

[@pdglisa9087]

Agreed, I noticed that too

[@FlummoxedCartwright]

A220d is the one. Going into the last month of a 3 year lease. No issues whatsoever. Infotainment system is easy. Regularly get high 60s, early 70s on the motorway and it's plenty quick enough elsewhere.

[@LionKing-zo4gc]

Had a 70 plate A220d from new. The torque and gear changes, especially on sport mode, was brutal. It felt a hell of a pot faster than the 190 bhp diesel engine it came with. Gave a lot of GTIs and S3 a shock when overtaking as the gear changed were unbelievably quick. If you're thinking about getting one, definitely test drive the A220d, you will be pleasantly surprised. But...make sure it's Premium trim and above, preferably Premium+, as the basic AMG Line spec was pants.

[@Dr.Jellyfingers]

​@@LionKing-zo4gcthe 220's are quite surprising aren't they? Got a CLA with one and it regularly puts a smile on my face !

[@Whiponized]

@@LionKing-zo4gc nice car but gti and s3 are still the goats

[@Shane-zx4ps]

@@LionKing-zo4gcI’m glad to see diesel still an option as I think they are brilliant

[@Shane-zx4ps]

French diesels are better than their German counterparts so I wouldn’t be that worried.

[@thelewisshow555]

The sobbery from some of these comments from people who clearly havent had any experience with them, or its rivals is to be expected unfortunatly. Having owned one as a daily for the last 4 and a half years, I can say its an absolutely brilliant car. Better engines and gearbox than its rivals. Better looks than its rivals, better ride, better tech, better safety, more spacious the list goes on and on. Never had an issue with mine with basic maintinence

[@EL_CHPP0]

Its because most of these cars are low spec but comes with a Mercedes badge so you know the person who bought it could've got something similar but for cheaper. These cars when they have a good specification, are levels above its competitors.

[@andygm525]

My wife didn't know what car to get when she got rid of her A Class, she said she felt spoiled and nothing interested her as much. She went back to her fiesta Ecoboost to slum it for a while so her expectations were lowered, she ended up getting a BMW 2 series active tourer (plug in hybrid) she says its nice but she still misses the Mercedes.

[@FrankensteinintoFranken-FINE.]

I had a new 2019 A200d AMG line as a company car, was a great car, plenty of torque when you put your foot down, just had a few sensor issues over the 3 years.

[@cricticalthinking]

It appears that the allure of Mercedes-Benz vehicles has diminished in recent times. While they were once renowned for their exceptional build quality and durable engines, it seems that the brand is now relying on its past reputation rather than continuing to innovate and maintain its high standards. Customers who purchase Mercedes-Benz vehicles today may be primarily motivated by the prestige associated with the three-pointed star emblem rather than the actual quality of the product.

[@serenityinside1]

Correct - ie “ brand snobbery” in marketing terms. Big in all consumables but MASSIVE no auto industry and a perfect way to part gullible dupes from their money ; PCP finance enabling that to the max ie a match made in £££ heaven ! Line up suckers for your new Renault errr “ first Mercedes” lol 😂

[@ytlurker220]

​@@serenityinside1it's not a Renault engine, it was co-developed by Mercedes and Renault.

[@OptrixTV]

I got a 2019 A250 AMG-Line (the non-Renault engine one) purely because it was a heck of a lot cheaper insurance-wise than a Mk7 Golf GTI, the on-the-road price was cheaper, and now having lived with it for 9 months, can confirm has a much better built interior, more kit as standard, rides better and still matches, if not exceeds the performance: 220bhp, 6.0s 0-60

[@davidbannister7063]

I had the saloon a250 premium,great till the entire dash screen went blank whilst in Manchester.No Sat nav speedo fuel guage.Took 3 months to fix!!Was hoping you would start shouting "HEY Mercedes tell me a joke".Missed a trick I reckon.

[@steve5772]

And like the golf, they both have room for 2 large bin bags of plant cuttings in the boot 😁

[@mudemmeonick]

The interior better built? lol Hope you get payment for the publicity.

[@Xportables]

Our family has the third gen. It has around 270k kilometers and we couldnt be happier. It's just the perfect balance of reliability, luxury and fuel efficiency.

[@JulianButterworth-ff1ii]

I bought a 3rd gen for the wife. Never had issue, fantastic fuel efficiency past every mot without advisory since new and serviced at main dealer or Benz specialist and doesn’t have any rattles or squeaks. Great little hatchback 👍

[@Xportables]

@@JulianButterworth-ff1ii Yeah, exatly

[@_analog_photo]

It is a good engine, I have it in my Dacia Sandero, over 200k km in 7 years, no issues at all.

[@b.2221]

Reluctantly my young son traded in his three years old AMG A35, and is now a happy owner of a B 200 and he couldn’t be happier. Lower spec and decent performance is a good trade in at the end of the day. Lovely wee car.

[@Therollingpanda]

What was he smoking to trade an A35 in for a B class???

[@yc895]

@@Therollingpanda😂😂😂😂😂

[@b.2221]

@@Therollingpanda Take your point my friend, and that little A35 was one nippy quality car. Sadly finances and circumstances have changed so a cheaper car it had to be.

[@seachemistry]

A good second car in all honesty, get one used and it's a decent price. Inside is. nice especially if you get the leather and aluminium as opposed to the fake alcantara. AND if you get the double extended screen.

[@mudemmeonick]

The interiors are plastic fantastic. Theres no aluminium in there. It's all plastic imitating aluminium. They're rattle centrals.

[@ecoplanetrewards3061]

Always seem to be driven at high speed from one set of lights to the next. I had the 2.1 as a courtesy car and was really surprised at how economical it was. Always seemed 65mpg or more. My wife liked it and she swapped her Vitara for one. I agree that it feels a little cheap when you look close at the controls especially next to my CLS that was in for repair.

[@Smashmouth-lx4vv]

I had a brand new 2020 AMG one as a company car until last year and loved it. New company car now is a Mokka EV which is a real come down after the A Class but a lot cheaper on the old company car tax so shouldn't grumble really.

[@CorscaddenSalvato]

The variety of textures in the kisluxbag pack is impressive. From smooth leather to textured suede, there's something for everyone.

[@asianskywalker]

Sat in one with the renault engine and the NVH was terrible. Loud and plenty of vibration with not so great road noise.

[@vascoribeiro69]

I have the saloon 180D auto AMG line with that little french diesel engine. Only takes diesel premium and still do the service at Mercedes dealer. 80000km or 50000miles and still new. I am a tall guy and it fits me like a glove

[@davegillespie3948]

Got a 2020 cla premium plus amg with the 2 litre diesel and eight speed auto....goes like a train and no rattles.... pretty happy with it

[@Dr.Jellyfingers]

The premium plus is definitely the one to go for and the tweaks they have done to the chassis make the CLA a better drive especially the 220. Very nice looking cars.

[@jcfallows]

Whichever ice car you test you know all about their faults! And shortcomings! Modern cars are the best built cars ever, yet they are a garage owners dream, they can make loads of money repairing them! That's a great advertisement for EVS without them being mentioned!

[@danielcoganmanzanas3676]

Definitely not. Keep up the good work Matt. Your videos are getting better and I always look forward to watching them.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks, will do!

[@ebrahimShakiba-ry1rl]

Exactly the same car but 2019 was mainly used for short town trips, it has been a nightmare anything that could go wrong went wrong. I have come to conclusion that Mercedes not only complicates things and mainly it is all cosmetic from fake exhausts etc.

[@nicholasholland-smith1324]

Recently I hired a new A class and I was given a choice of colours grey or yellow. Of course I went with the bright yellow, there aren't many others in that colour, it was automatic and was a good drive. Helped me out in the heavy rain with being visible.

[@sonnyburnett8851]

Had a w177 A200 amg manual line,2 years old 7000 miles and clutch release bearing started making a noise on take off ,had it done under warranty, six months later started making noise again, typical renault engines and parts ,got rid soon after ,but was a nice car to drive

[@serenityinside1]

3 pointed star - made in Brazil- French build “ quality / reliability “. Matt was being waay to kind of- almost like he was being paid to expouse the values of these turkeys that seemed to have “ miraculously improved “ from the previous models he slagged off ..🤔

[@Aaraa-t2b]

People seem to shit on it a lot looking at the comments, mum has a w176 premium plus model (2016). Black edition with black alloys it looked the part. Granted it was a a180d so not the fastest car around the block. But it had all the bells and whistle u ever need. Sunroof, memory seats Coming from Ireland this car cost 20k euros 4 years ago. You would find it very hard to find another car with similar spec etc in another hatchback

[@HighPeakAutos]

I agree - I like them. I think people just like to moan tbh

[@timhancock6626]

Nein danke. The days when Merc did things better are long gone. They just do things more expensive with average quality. I'd have an Alfa Giulietta before one of these any day.

[@Tom.J.O]

Alfa Romeo along with Lexus are very overlooked brands and both far superior to this German tat people over here are obsessed with.

[@dailyhunter3683]

You can still get yourself a modern classic mercedes-benz though. As long as you don't mind a mechanic opening up the bonnet and say, "mate this is gonna cost Ya" 😂😂😂😂

[@jeejabuaja]

facts

[@jworpington]

Lexus - yes. But, Alfa Romeo reliability record is shocking. At least with a Lexus you’re essentially getting a posh Toyota and you know it’s going to work every single time.

[@andypandy1114]

Depends the g class and s class are still market leaders but everything else is definitely declining

[@damienh9389]

I drove pretty mucch exactly the same car recently. Nice car, really fast 200d. Downside, small and quite hard seats. No rattles or creaks in the one i drive but it was low mileage.

[@Mihigo26]

19 reg A200d AMG Premium Plus here. Mechanically flawless.

[@RKO6192]

The spoiler and fins on the back are aftermarket, not part of the AMG Line. The spoiler is on the AMGs without the aero pack, and the fins are part of the aero pack

[@dj_paultuk7052]

I just do not like the shape of the new one. I had a 2016 A220d AMG Line DCT, night pack, Premium Plus. So the real merc 2.2d engine. Also had the BRABUS D2 Tuning pack on it so it went like stink. The DCT was a joy to use. Fuel economy was amazing, i did 104,000 miles in 4 years and averaged 72mpg over that time. Bad point is the Artico fake leather. After 4 years my drivers seat was splitting and cracking.

[@LouieJackson-lj2fj]

My uncle had one as a company car I been in it it nice had no problems dead comfy 😊

[@Troy-McLore]

I had a 2023 as a complimentary car for a day last month, I was really impressed by it. The engine was the 1.4 so was a little lacklustre but if I was buying one I would just spec a better engine. Overall a great little car

[@louischapman1209]

The biggest cut of corners was putting a Renault engine in it

[@Jxtb9904]

I have a 2009 kia rio. Basic, cheap motoring at its best. Manual locking and wind up windows but reliable as anything. You can keep your fancy cars, mine is the best.

[@bikeman123]

Why are you here watching this?

[@Jxtb9904]

@@bikeman123 Why not? I'm still interested in cars generally and I like his site.

[@steve5772]

I swore I'd never buy a Merc, but I recently ended up with a mk3 Vito. They have truly sorted themselves out. I like the A-class. Basically Renault in all the bits you'd want Renault to do, but trimmed and finished by mercedes

[@jurepo]

Had A250e just under two years but enjoyed driving electric so much that changed to full electric car. A250e was very nice, especially because my previous car was Polo. It had quality feel and really liked drive assistant tech. Never had any problems in that time. Performance was quite nice when electric and petrol motor worked same time and electric motor had enough power for everyday driving.

[@paulh5854]

I had an A180 1.3 petrol - 2021 for a couple of months. I inherited it. I own a 71 reg M135i so I coould do a 'sort of' direct comparison. The merc is the more comfortable to drive. I would have kept the merc but my wife preferred the Bmw! The road noise in the Merc can be an issue. When it was new my relative swapped the Continental tyres for Michelins which definitely made a positive difference. I also prefer the merc dashboard to the BMW. As for dashboard/interior rattles, I didn’t hear any in mine. That could be just the car Matt had to test.

[@KipKippax]

18k for a car with a creaking interior ! I paid 2k for a 07 TT petrol soft top that drives like new , not a noise from anywhere it shouldn't have . not a spot of rust ,does 40mpg easy on a run and is great fun too .Not the same thing I know but think I'll stick to my Bangers 😀

[@markyboy7012]

My son bought himself in 2021 at age 19 a brand-new A35 AMG premium plus with the full aero kit to celebrate gaining promotion in his job Had to wait six months for it to be built and as a result of the microchip shortage had a few accessories deleted from the build. For example, they deleted the Burmeister stereo and gave him a Meridian instead. At one point they even suggested he wouldn’t get LED headlights only normal halogen but they must’ve found some from somewhere. Mercedes-Benz would not reduce the cost of the car for the deleted items. Instead they gave him two years free servicing and £500 petrol voucher. Absolutely outrageous car for a 19-year-old At the time I had a C 63 and I have to say I got way more fun driving the A class than I did the C class. His only regret was that he didn’t go for the A45. The good thing about it is he kept it 18 months and sold it back to Mercedes for more than he owed on it because of the shortage of microchips and the high cost of used cars at the time.

[@ph8077]

Yeah my car was written off in late 2022 while it was parked; it had done an extra 18000 miles since I bought it in April 2021...the insurers settled for £3400 more than I paid for it. I didn't even haggle because I thought they'd realise their mistake if I made them re-assess the realistic price. I only really believed it when the bank transfer hit my account LOL

[@bikeman123]

How did a 19 yo insure a A35 AMG?

[@markyboy7012]

@@bikeman123 £2500 a year. He’d previously had a Corsa & an A180d to build up some no claims. You can insure any car if you’re prepared to pay the money.

[@JamesEsten]

I really love your taste and style always so chic. My faves would be the kislux leather backpack and the Swarovski pave diamond ring so gorg. Thank you for your recommendations.

[@oddities-whatnot]

My favourite years ago was the 190E. Used to drive a new one for work occasionally in the late 80s when I wasn’t in my 318i. Mercedes were so solid back then.

[@jonm9501]

I got the 2 litre diesel and I love it. The car is so quiet inside and I can touch 70mpg on a run as the adblue kicks in. Not sure if the 1.5 diesel comes with the adblue. It’s the smoothest and most comfortable car I’ve ever driven. And the tech inside is lovely. The only issues I’ve found are the front splitter being too low (it WILL crash over a speed bump) and the LED headlights being too low also which can’t be altered by us.

[@TomDavies86]

We had a brand new A35 Saloon and the infotainment screen went black entirely rendering the car useless without a working speedo. This happened after 8000 miles and less than a year old. A bit of plastic on the interior just snapped off one day. Both issues sorted under warranty, but for a new car and a Mercedes, this was unacceptable. The general consensus is right I can vouch for after owning one, yes they look good and the interior has a wow factor about it, however the build quality is just not what it used to be with Mercedes. Without warranty I wouldn’t have another, no chance. The latest 1 series is probably a better alternative. I’m assuming bits of plastic won’t just fall off that.

[@juliancaston9598]

Quite refined apart from the rattles!! Nah..I'll stick with my 2015 Mazda 2 1.5 Skyactive 115bhp sports nav ..no rattles 50+mpg and £35 per year road tax as itcwas before april 2017

[@jdmguy44]

I run a 2018 Mazda 2 sport black plus as a second car. Great little thing. Even after four years ownership, still not bored of it.

[@juliancaston9598]

@@jdmguy44 They are a great little car...my only real criticism is the rev counter and fuel gauge is very hard to read in daylight as there is reflection in the glass and why don't mazda,fit a coolant temperature gauge instead of just a warning light ( mine doesn't have heads up display) once that red warning light comes on the engine will probably be cooked

[@jdmguy44]

@@juliancaston9598 I can't say I've noticed that issue with the rev counter/fuel gauge. Mine has the digital rev counter. Top versions have a central analogue rev counter and digital speedo combo. Agree, I think a full temp gauge would have been useful. Likewise a central armrest - which was a dealer option but I never bothered.

[@juliancaston9598]

@@jdmguy44 Ahh yes, the instruments were revised on the 2018 models ..but I like the 6 speed manual gearbox which mine has as its the 115bhp model

[@loby24]

This model of the A class is the best looking to date the internet has had a massive glow up best in class with the big boy screens was thinking of getting one in the 1.3 Auto AMG pack

[@md-detailing]

Way better and cooler than any Golf. Great video and work as always Matt! .D

[@brickmissing8295]

Was looking at spending £30K on a new one but I think the Mazda3 is better quality and value at that price: Same size and shape, better interior quality materials, proper 2.0L manual vs the 1.5L automatic. Also comes with proper built-in-Japan quality vs Renault build-quality.

[@jdmguy44]

Yep I'd have the Mazda 3 in this class. A great all rounder. Could also be tempted by the well regarded new Civic.

[@killianwalsh6334]

Good video mat i drove an a250e and taught it was a nice car but road noise was quite loud i taught compared to what im usually in. Good video!

[@steliofrasco3455]

I have a 2022 Cla200d, technology and performance is great with very good efficiency. Biggest issue is uncomfortable seats and the hard ride for city use perfect but on longer trips unpleasant

[@gt197]

“Because that is me..I evolve..but I don’t…..revolve..” And..”the worth of boast worlds..” Bet you thought I’d miss those..the gift that keeps on giving 👍🏻

[@HighPeakAutos]

Nobody had heard of Oxford before Inspector Morse

[@gt197]

@@HighPeakAutos 🤣🤣

[@davestrugs]

Youth Hostelling with Chris Eubank?

[@gt197]

@@davestrugs and it’s fine to join in.

[@knightofcydonia07]

We had one just like that in 2021 on holiday in Spain. I was really impressed by it, especially the interior. The screen tech was fascinating to play around with. The only real annoyance was the Lane Departure System that made it feel like you were about to be dragged into a barrier over any broken surface.

[@arranturner7748]

Personally, as someone living in Canada with little options for small hatchbacks, love the Mazda 3 but my mum drives one so I wanted something different. Every other car I see is a civic. The GTI’s interior is not nice, don’t like touch sensitive buttons. Interior of the A3 looks like a Jetta. I thought the A250 was more of a special car, less common on the road. I love my little merc lite! (Btw they sell the hatch in Canada but not the States)

[@finleypdoherty]

Mercedes definitely spent their money making the interior look cool, quality is a let down. The 2019- 1 series feels like a much more upmarket car, if not quite as modern. Nice review! I'd like to see a similar video on an F40 1 series

[@steveegginton535]

I think the non-p/c coments are part of the appeal of your channel and amuses much of the general population so hope you keep it up👍 Always liked the look of the A class Merc and whilst I've never driven one, from all the comments I hear I think I might be disappointed - build quality and lack of performance would put be off for a start!

[@jamespratley4384]

I'm 20 and I know so many people that drive this model. Its always the base model with a manual box and tiny alloys with not a single option, probably on 20% 5 year pcp, and I bet you wont be able to guess why they choose this! Brake hold feature on my Seat is so convenient, and I dont have to press a button it just happens automaticallly when i stop

[@PhannyObsession]

I used to deliver Mercs. They are hands down the best built cars on the market. And you’re right about the steering wheel controls. Once you get into your head that the left side controls the left screen and the right controls the right, it’s very intuitive. I had to demonstrate all the features when I delivered them and customers got to grips with it in no time

[@jdmguy44]

Really?! Given what was said on this video about squeaks and rattles on a five year old car that is supposedly "premium".

[@adrianwalsh896]

Nice one Matt, but Diesel, no no no 🤬🤬

[@yerunski]

Halfway through the review I almost thought I wanted one. But when he mentioned the creaks and rattles... in an A class Mercedes?? No, thanks! Already had my share of those when I owned a Volvo V40. Anyway, great review as always!

[@Andyschannel-ph9sw]

For me Matt it's S class or nothing when it comes to normal Mercs. Love your videos 100% my friend .

[@niux919]

We are getting loads of mercs through our body shop. There wasn't a single one that did not squeak. From aclass through glc, gle, c class, e class, they all rattle and squeak. Materials are good looking and nice to touch but somehow Hyundais, Kias and even Fords are less "vocal" when it comes to interiors.

[@andrewgrimshaw5180]

I’ve got an A35amg and what a car. No creaks or rattles and the Mbux system is fantastic. My first merc and I’m a convert to the brand.

[@pdglisa9087]

Me too! Came from a TROC R and although it doesn’t seem as responsive, it’s a great car. Hope you enjoy yours 👍

[@pdglisa9087]

Hi Matt, great video as always. I have a new A35 and I can confirm I don’t have any links to county lines 😂 you’re more than welcome to feature it on the channel for a review 👍

[@polopowered]

As seen on the driveways of all new build housing estates.

[@spehammond]

You can use auto hold on VAG cars by double pressing the brake pedal

[@jasonkilshaw4430]

Lovely car and top video Matt. All these people making comments about how it shares parts with Renault-Nissan, most cars nowadays share DNA and it's not unusual.

[@mickaeld1981]

Small ad from a180 diesel owner. Was actually sport so model down. When you pull was “very jumpie”. Either wheel spin or felt like will stole. Also like this one in review had only single clock so you can have either speedo or rev on. Deffo go for bigger screen. I sold mine after 6 months (thanks to covid got more then I paid. But…if I had the amg line with ambient lights both screen bigger and not this worse engine ever (1.3) probably would still kept. So choose wisely dont buy cheaper one. Is like two different cars. Also… facelift model now dont have pad to operate screen and all speedo are double clock what is massive improvement.

[@jasbo7288]

Great video Matt..I have the equivalent B-class in 200d guise premium (2 big screens) and just done 14.4 miles to work this morning and got 65.7 mpg showing..I don't get any sqeeks or rattles inside it's solid enough and has the 8 speed box in this diesel..Had nearly 3 years and it's been brill..keep up the good work..👍😀

[@Sickiey]

the engines are not the problem the E10 additives the gov are putting into fuel is the problem

[@bobbydwheelhouse]

I had one of these, it was too low and the seats were plastic and not comfortable, the engine was really agricultural. Liked the looks and the interior overall.

[@fauzanriez9472]

Now I remember. This is not Mercedes first to use a Renault-Nissan engine. Nissan did give its 2014 Navara pick up for Mercedes to rebadge as the X class. And in return, Mercedes supplied the Infiniti Q50 (also sold as Nissan Skyline in Japan) with its 2.0 turbo and 2.1 turbodiesel with 7G tronic transmission .

[@tonyb1184]

FYI master blaster (Jammin) by Stevie Wonder was recorded in Jamaica when Stevie met Bob Marley. Stevie called Bob "Master Blaster" and dedicated the song to him.

[@101andytoll101]

I had one of these as a rental car in Majorca. After being caught short on a game of petrol station roulette, I managed to hyper mile it and got 90MPG. I thought it was a very pleasant car but also incredibly boring. The visibility is also pretty poor, which I found out when scraping the side of the car on a small wall which you couldn't see because the window line is so high.

[@chrish2685]

One of Plod's favourite Pull cars." It's my Nan's Mobility car I just dropped her at the Bingo" Officer!

[@JeffPower-dv3zl]

😂

[@laurent90210]

the A220 (sold in the USA) is 200hp Mercedes engine, this car is identical to the c-class, just higher headroom.

[@ALLTHINGSTV1]

I had an amg s it went like stink but the build quality was so poor got shot of it after a year before it fell apart completely

[@ciarayboydj]

Another top video Matt. My misses has the a220d 2l diesel. I wouldn't let her get the 1.5 Renault diesel - far to unreliable. The MB 2l is solid. As for the DCT I believe it's a VW DSG box they use. I know what you mean about the rattles - so annoying! What happened to German build quality!

[@richards4456]

The 1.5 is not unreliable. You’re somewhat misinformed there. My missus had an a200d 2.1 which performed really poorly. 36mpg at best. Had a 180d courtesy car which in normal driving isn’t noticeably slower and was doing 55mpg. Merc use getrag DCT gearboxes. Guess what, the same place Renault get theirs.

[@stephenlane9168]

Another enjoyable video Matt. Cheers buddy 👌👏love come home from a full on days work to unwind to an interesting video and your witty narration & presenting.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks 👍

[@FrederickFlinstone]

They also do an A220d so you don't need to go from this to an A35 or A45 to get more speed. It's a lot faster than the A180 or A200.

[@abayamangali]

Unfortunately not available in the UK anymore (unless you buy used)

[@matthewstephens5005]

I had a 3rd generation and was really disappointed. Very dull to drive but the thing that surprised me was no dab. I asked about it and they said they don’t put it in a-class.

[@detmer87]

In general Premium brands aren't competitive (read: that's not the same as popular) in compact cars. They don't compete on "value for money" so people buy a looker: base model with a AMG/sports styling package. In my opinion that's a shame because you could have bought a so much *more* / rich equipment car from a (semi-) regular brand...

[@Barbarapape]

I have to agree wqith the comment below, like the BMW 1 series, it is a first attempt to buy the badge at the lowest price. I have owned both C and E class AMG estates, the higher up the range you go the better they get. Save up and buy a propper Mercedes that will give you pride of ownership.

[@miamimo70]

Is it better than a Golf , not with a French engine 😮

[@cmdrjinxo7846]

Unless ofc you buy the A35 or A45s models, they arent a cheap entry point at all. All manufacturers do a model like the A Class, some buyers will then progress up the model range into a C class for example.

[@andrewwaller5913]

​@@miamimo70 Slightly more interesting than a Golf, which are very bland now.

[@tj9382]

Nice review. I’m looking at getting one of these, the AMG line A200 petrol version, automatic of course.

[@martinsvensson6884]

Mercedes must be the record holder in watering down their whole brand for the last decades. I remember sitting in them at the dealer as a kid in the 80's. Everything felt so solid. I remember the feeling I got then that this is for adults. Its not a toy. Today when I sit in one I get the oppoiste feeling. They feel like some cheap gimmicky toy for 12 year old boys.

[@mitchreeves1]

It's the 'I'd rather live at home with my mum and dad and have a high interest rate 'cool' car than buy or rent a house and move out' type car. I literally work with several guys in their mid to late 20's, they have A45's, A35's, S3's, M140i's and a like. They all have the same hair cut, all listen to the same rap music and all live at home with their mum and dad.

[@williamfence566]

Average car with a premium badge. Car supermarkets love them as that's the customer base for an expensive PCP and extra's to make a wedge from.

[@billymonkey111]

The " pcp deal I can't afford, B&M furniture, puffer gilet, white socks with branded slip ons" car of choice - second only to the evoque

[@brianmonkey1697]

Volkswagen/ Skoda engine 1.0 tsi 115bhp.. max speed 125mph.. around town 48mpg.. 9.5sec to 60

[@S-Ltd1000]

Lol. My sister had a 72 plate saloon version and recently got rid of it as those squeaks and rattles were driving her nuts. Apparently, it was that bad she had bits of cardboard wedged randomly all over the dash.😂