Road Testing the A-Class

[Styria]

Well, the new A-Class certainly does not bear great resemblance to the original body shape. I have referred to the Honda Jazz we are purchasing as being close in looks to the A Class, but that has all changed now. The A-Class has grown up.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0K-0vkFfUmY

However, take a look at the Steering Wheel and middle dash area - remarkably looking similar to the Jazz. Sure, the Benz facilities are more comprehensive, see Sat Nav screen, but we are talking half price for the Jazz. Regards Styria

 

[SEL_69L]

Those air vents on the dash would be better finished with Mercedes Stars, instead of chrome crosses.

Apart from the distinctive grille, the rest of it looks rather anonymous.

The reviewer objected to the low roof line interfering with vision for back seat passengers. I agree. Same problem with the CLS. Having been inside in the rear of a CLS, for me it is semi claustrophobic, submarine like. Having said this, the rear of a BMW 1 series in the back, ain't much better, and legroom is more restricted.

The windscreen rear edge is almost above the driver. That could be a problem for him, with radiant heat from the sun. Illegal to tint front windscreens, although heat resistant glass may be of some help, if fitted.

Can't say anything about the driving dynamics, I haven't driven one. I will take the reviewer's word for it.

 

[260ebenz]

A-Class road test video.

What is with the whistling noise coming from the car?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VVw-iTD3z0

 

[Michel]

A-Class road test video.

What is with the whistling noise coming from the car?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VVw-iTD3z0

It's the turbo,

 

[260ebenz]

Turbo okay Michel thanks.

 

[Styria]

Interesting that MB should have come up with a completely new design for this latest A - Class. As I said, it is now a completely new car - exterior wise it certainly has lost the DNA of the original model. Mind you, I was never that particularly enamored by its styling. However, take your mind back to the CLC Coupe - that model was discontinued some months ago for whatever reason, and you have to ask yourself why. Perhaps its engineering design required a complete re-vamp to keep pace with the latest technical & dynamic developments ? The reason why I mention the CLC is because some consideration was given to purchasing one to take the place of the Statesman, but in the end settled on the new Honda Jazz. Regards Styria