Parkers summary:
A-Class scores on several counts: it's an intelligent compromise between city car and people-carrier; it's undoubtedly practical, reliable and stylish; and it's got the Stuggart star on the grille. Pumped-up small hatches might not be to everyone's taste, but they're certainly the flavour of the moment. Daewoo's Matiz does a similar job at half the price, but A-Class is the small family car of choice from Chelsea to Cornwall, combining prestige with practicality and reliability. The 'stretch' models from mid-2001are roomier but still usefully compact.
Inexpensive by Mercedes standards, but by no means a cheap - the most costly car in this class; equipment compares well with larger Mercs and you can load it with extras; an innovative car of high quality with the Mercedes pedegree.
Mercedes has an enviable reputation for high build quality and long lasting products; this is very unlikely to be jeopardised by this mini Merc.
Mercedes fitted firm suspension‚ wide tyres and electronic stability control to improve stability; the result is fun to drive with minimal body roll; feels secure and inspires confidence thanks to good grip; steering is direct and wellweighted.
Inexpensive by Mercedes standards, but by no means a cheap - the most costly car in this class; equipment compares well with larger Mercs and you can load it with extras; an innovative car of high quality with the Mercedes pedegree.
Ride is on the firm side - distractingly so, according to some owners; interior space is versatile - rear seats can be moved, folded or removed, leaving more load space than a big estate; narrow body means that three adults in the back is a squeeze; but kids will be happy enough; long wheelbase models more rear legroom and load space.
Initial doubts about stability should have been banished; one of the safest small cars on the road, with a creditable four star Euro NCAP crash test rating; standard driver, passenger and side airbags; ABS and traction control help, too.
Immobiliser, alarm, remote locking, builtin radio and a visible VIN; Mercedes are taking no chances in the urban jungle.
Enquire Mercedes-Benz A150 Classic SE