Skip advert
Advertisement

Mercedes-Benz A-class (2012-2018) review – design

A conventional hatch now, the A-class fights hard in the premium hatchback class

Evo rating
RRP
from £19,990
  • Neat interior, head-turning looks and comparatively cheap to own and run
  • Dynamically it doesn’t live up to its visual promise, space and comfort are issues

There's no doubting that the A-class is one of the most interestingly styled cars since Mercedes-Benz introduced its CLS and it has gone on to spawn a whole range of spin-offs from the GLA crossover to the four-door CLA coupe and CLA Shooting Brake.

A revised exterior in 2015 sees the rear end of the A-class tidied up. Exhausts are now incorporated into the rear bumper, while the front of the car features a new diamond grille and optional LED performance headlamps. Rear LED brakelights have also been redesigned.

From the large front grille and its prominent three-pointed star badge, to the neat tail it’s an athletic and distinctive looking car. It loses something on the smallest alloy wheels, in most basic SE and Sport levels, and in the darkest colours, but choose any of the AMG trim choices and the A-class will turn more heads than any A3 or 1-series.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

The engineer so good he got banned, and designed a £30k sports car you can buy
Richard Hall Great British Sports Cars
Features

The engineer so good he got banned, and designed a £30k sports car you can buy

From 1:10-scale beginnings via building kit cars, Richard Hall’s passion for engineering led to the creation of his own modern‑day Lotus Seven interpr…
27 Sep 2026
Honda Prelude goes (very) red for Europe with the 2027 Limited Edition
Honda Prelude 2027 Limited Edition
News

Honda Prelude goes (very) red for Europe with the 2027 Limited Edition

The Honda Prelude has been given a special edition for the 2027 model year, but the makeover isn’t exactly what we were hoping for
29 Sep 2026
This forgotten ‘90s Subaru rally car is one of the rarest and only costs £15k
Subaru Impreza WRX Type RA
Reviews

This forgotten ‘90s Subaru rally car is one of the rarest and only costs £15k

The first Subaru Impreza WRX ever sold to the public happened to be the lightest, and a truly engaging rally-derived saloon to boot. We drive the ‘93 …
28 Sep 2026