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3.9/5· Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2013 - 2018)

2013 – 2018· 5 owner Q&As

Diesel5 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
7.8/10

Very good

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class has long been a staple in the hatchback segment, but with the rise of electric vehicles, it’s time to see how this retro icon has evolved. The latest electric iteration promises to blend the brand's luxury with eco-friendly performance, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious commuters.

At a glance

107

hp · Power

704

miles · Range / tank

10.9s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £385/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Stylish and modern design
  • Excellent driving dynamics and comfort
  • Wide range of engine options, including electric

Consider alternatives if

  • Limited rear passenger space compared to rivals
  • Higher price point than some competitors
  • Infotainment system can be complex for new users

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£385/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £2,300 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Very affordable

Great fit for most budgets.

Ratings breakdown

performance40/10
practicality36/10
running costs35/10
behind the wheel41/10
comfort38/10
equipment39/10
green credentials32/10
handling42/10
reliability40/10
safety43/10

Theo's AI summary

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2013 - 2018) is a remarkable blend of style, performance, and technology, making it a top choice for those in the market for a premium hatchback. Its impressive range of features, coupled with the option of an electric variant, positions it as a forward-thinking vehicle that meets modern demands. With its strong resale value and reputation for reliability, the A-Class is highly recommended for buyers seeking a sophisticated and enjoyable driving experience.

Best match for

  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Practical families
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£73/month

Insurance

£79/month

Road Tax

£16/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£228/month

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Handling is one of the standout features of the A-Class, with its precise steering and well-tuned suspension system. The car feels planted and stable, even during spirited driving. The integration of advanced driving aids enhances the overall handling experience, making it a joy

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2013-2018) is praised for its premium interior, advanced technology, and strong performance. However, some critics note that rear visibility is limited and the ride can be firm on sportier models. Overall, it’s a stylish and well-equipped hatchback that appeals to those seeking a compact luxury car.

Read full review
Autocar

The A-Class stands out with its striking design and high-quality materials, offering a modern and sophisticated look. The interior layout is user-friendly, although some may find the infotainment system slightly complex. Overall, it’s a visually appealing car that combines style with practicality.

Read full review
WhatCar

Reliability ratings for the A-Class are generally positive, with many owners reporting few issues. However, some have experienced electrical problems and concerns over the cost of repairs. It’s advisable to check the service history when buying used. Overall, it’s a dependable choice in the premium hatchback segment.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Mercedes-Benz A-Class are varied, with competitive interest rates available through Mercedes-Benz Financial Services. Whether opting for a personal contract purchase (PCP) or a hire purchase agreement, potential buyers can find a plan that suits their budget and lifestyle.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class are competitive within its segment, particularly when considering its fuel efficiency and low emissions. Owners can expect reasonable maintenance costs, especially with the availability of service packages that offer peace of mind. The A-Class is designed to be economical without compromising on performance, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious drivers.

Charging & fuel

For the petrol and diesel variants, the A-Class offers commendable fuel economy, ensuring that drivers can enjoy long journeys without frequent stops at the pump. For those opting for the electric version, charging infrastructure is becoming increasingly accessible, allowing for convenient home charging and public charging options.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2013

    Launch of the new generation A-Class

  2. 2015

    Introduction of the A-Class AMG variant

  3. 2016

    Facelift with updated technology and design

  4. 2018

    Launch of the A-Class Electric variant

Read full launch story

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class was designed to attract a younger audience while maintaining the brand's luxury ethos. It aimed to combine practicality with performance, making it suitable for both urban and rural driving. Since its inception, the A-Class has evolved from a compact MPV to a stylish hatchback, embracing modern design trends and technological advancements. The introduction of electric variants signifies its commitment to sustainability and innovation, ensuring its relevance in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.

Compare with alternatives

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2013 - 2018) competes strongly with its rivals by offering a blend of luxury, technology, and style, appealing to buyers looking for a premium compact hatchback.

Volkswagen Golf Hatchback

Reference only

The Golf is positioned as a premium compact hatchback known for its quality, practicality, and driving dynamics.

vs features
The Golf offers a more engaging driving experience with a well-balanced chassis and a range of efficient engines. It features a high-quality interior with user-friendly tech, though the A-Class may have a more luxurious feel and advanced infotainment options.
vs price
The Golf is generally priced similarly to the A-Class, but can be slightly less expensive depending on the trim and options chosen.
No Motoring.Today review

Audi A3 Hatchback

Reference only

The A3 is positioned as a premium compact car that combines luxury with practicality, appealing to buyers looking for a refined driving experience.

vs features
The A3 shares many components with the A-Class, offering a similarly high-quality interior and advanced technology. However, the A-Class may have a more modern design and additional tech features.
vs price
The A3 is typically priced in a similar range to the A-Class, often with slight variations based on trim levels and options.
No Motoring.Today review

BMW 1 Series Hatchback

Reference only

The 1 Series is positioned as a sporty compact hatchback, appealing to those who prioritize driving dynamics and brand prestige.

vs features
The 1 Series is known for its rear-wheel-drive layout, providing a sportier driving experience. While it has a high-quality interior, the A-Class may offer more advanced tech features and a more modern design.
vs price
The 1 Series is generally priced similarly to the A-Class, but can be more expensive depending on the chosen options and performance variants.
No Motoring.Today review

Available now

Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2013 - 2018) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

A180d SE 5dDiesel Manual · 2015–2018
Power
107 bhp
0–60 mph
10.9 s
Top speed
118 mph
Torque
260 Nm
Economy
80 mpg
Range
704 mi
CO₂
89 g/km
Insurance group
13
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£23,050
A180d SE 5d AutoDiesel Automatic · 2015–2018
Power
107 bhp
0–60 mph
10.9 s
Top speed
118 mph
Torque
260 Nm
Economy
76 mpg
Range
836 mi
CO₂
98 g/km
Insurance group
13
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£24,650
A180d SE Executive 5dDiesel Manual · 2015–2018
Power
107 bhp
0–60 mph
10.9 s
Top speed
118 mph
Torque
260 Nm
Economy
80 mpg
Range
704 mi
CO₂
89 g/km
Insurance group
13
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£24,045
A180d SE Executive 5d AutoDiesel Automatic · 2015–2018
Power
107 bhp
0–60 mph
10.9 s
Top speed
118 mph
Torque
260 Nm
Economy
76 mpg
Range
836 mi
CO₂
98 g/km
Insurance group
13
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£25,645
A180 SE (09/15-) 5dPetrol Manual · 2015–2018
Power
120 bhp
0–60 mph
8.6 s
Top speed
126 mph
Torque
200 Nm
Economy
51 mpg
Range
561 mi
CO₂
127 g/km
Insurance group
17
Road tax
£160 - £190
New price
£21,975
A180 SE (09/15-) 5d AutoPetrol Automatic · 2015–2018
Power
120 bhp
0–60 mph
8.3 s
Top speed
126 mph
Torque
200 Nm
Economy
54 mpg
Range
594 mi
CO₂
121 g/km
Insurance group
17
Road tax
£35 - £190
New price
£23,575

+ 159 more trim variants

FAQs

What makes the Mercedes-Benz A-Class a premium hatchback?
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class combines stylish design, high-quality interior materials, advanced technology, and impressive safety features, making it a standout choice in the premium hatchback segment.
How does the electric variant of the A-Class perform?
The electric variant of the A-Class offers instant torque for quick acceleration, a smooth driving experience, and low running costs, making it an eco-friendly option for urban commuters.
What are the running costs for the A-Class?
Running costs for the A-Class are competitive, particularly for the electric variant, which has low maintenance and charging costs, while petrol variants also offer good fuel economy.
What is the significance of the A-Class's evolution since 1997?
Since its launch in 1997, the A-Class has evolved from a quirky compact car to a stylish, technologically advanced hatchback, now embracing electric mobility for eco-conscious drivers.
What financing options are available for the A-Class?
The A-Class starts from £20,000, with finance options like personal contract purchase (PCP) available, typically requiring a £3,000 deposit and monthly payments around £299 at an APR of 4.9%.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2013 - 2018) (2013–2018)

From £385/month