6 April 2016

Mercedes-Benz A-Class 2016 car review

The new A-Class hatch has again soared to a new level for 2016. The new-generation model range provides exceptional value, right from the A 180 entry level model, to the top spec AMG A 45. Two of this year’s models have also seen the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC AWD system.


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Mercedes-Benz A 250 Sport 2016
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All models now include DYMNAMIC SELECT, which modifies the engine, transmission, suspension, steering and air conditioning to meet the driver’s preference, at the touch of a button. The four standard driving modes - comfort, sport, eco and individual, - mean you can tailor your road experience to your liking, while AMG DYNAMIC SELECT now also offers the wildest possible selection of driving dynamics in the A 45 -comfort, sport, sport+, individual and race mode.

Superior safety standards

Offering a range of driving assistance systems from ATTENTION ASSIST – a drowsiness detection system - to DISTRONIC PLUS cruise control, the A-Class provides occupants with comprehensive support and protection. Standard safety features consist of nine airbags, an accident anticipatory system called PRE-SAFE, Blind Spot Assist, Collision Prevention Assist with a semi-autonomous braking system and an Active Bonnet. The AMG A 45 also includes DISTRONIC PLUS and passive Lane Keeping Assist, as standard.

Comprehensive line-up

The entry level A 180 is a handy little hatch that’s packed full of goodies. It’s powered by a 1.6L turbo engine, which consumes 5.8L/100km. With this model, you’ll also receive 17” wheels, Garmin MAP PILOT navigation, Blind Spot Assist, a reversing camera, Keyless Start, DYNAMIC SELECT and a black diamond grille as standard.

The A 200 (petrol) is still driven with a 1.6L turbo engine but the power is upped from 90kW to 115kW, resulting in a fuel consumption of 6.1L/100km. Building upon the entry level spec, the wheels are increased to 18”, plus there’s a mirror package (electric, heated, integrated side repeaters) and sport seats with lumbar support. The A200d (diesel) shares the same level of spec, yet it consumes less fuel - 4.2L/100km - producing 100kW and 300Nm from a 2.1L engine.

4Matic magic

We were given the privilege to test the A 250 Sport 4Matic and it’s a great contender for those of you who are after something with a bit more bite. Powered by a 2.0ltr petrol engine and with the ability to transfer 160kW through the 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission, the 4Matic also boasts 18” AMG wheels, AMG body styling, AMG Ride Control suspension, LED fixed headlamps, Keyless-go, a panoramic sunroof and 12-colour ambient lighting.

For the F1 sports fans, you can enhance the A 250 with the Motorsport Edition Package. This gives you 19” AMG Black wheels, Petronas accentuations and a rear spoiler with Petronas green end caps. The front seats benefit from electronic memory, heating touch and a few more enhancements that should make your extra $4,490 spend feel very worthwhile.

The crème de la crème

The AMG A 45 4Matic delivers performance that is unrivalled in its class. It has a 0-100km acceleration that is carried out in just 4.2 seconds. This is down to the 2L engine which pumps out 280kW, while still only claiming fuel consumption of 7.3L/ 100km and thanks to the revised gear ratios, aerodynamics and the new AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes.

The new AMG DYNAMIC SELECT raises the overall performance to a higher level, creating another vehicle to claim dominance of the market segment. Completely new for the A 45 is the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package which sharpens the vehicle dynamics even further. This is a major addition to the newly developed mechanical front axle locking differential and it significantly improves the traction in sporty driving environments - think high-speed grip and fast acceleration around corners.

Pricing

Prices for the A 180 start at $48,600, $55,900 for the A 200+ A 200d, and $67,900 for the A 250 Sport 4Matic. Finishing off the range, the Mercedes-AMG A 45 will cost you around $97,600.

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