The Mercedes-Benz A200, is a stellar choice for those wishing to enter the grand world of Mercedes-Benz, offering a blend of luxury and performance. Mercedes-Benz recently gave the A-Class range some updates, including looks. I had the A200 AMG Line on test.
To be honest, there isn’t all that much that has been altered. The updated exterior design of the A200 impresses however, with a new front section that follows in the footsteps of its older siblings, by featuring the Mercedes-Benz star pattern in the grille, the flat LED headlamps, plus the headlights that are available as a matrix adaptive system and the optional rear diffuser with a chrome trim.
The interior is undeniably Mercedes. Again, brought in line with its older siblings. The full-size double-screen dash is now standard across Mercedes the range. So you lose the central pad which is a love or hate feature in the Mercedes anyway, and gain some extra storage space in the centre.
I was pleasantly surprised by the drive. The 1.3-litre turbocharged engine delivers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both urban and road trip driving. The ride comfort is pleasant although short as I am, I did feel it was a little small in the rear, so if you have some long legged passengers, things may get a little tricky.
The engine is quiet (if you don’t floor it), coupled with a well-tuned suspension that effortlessly soaks up bumps and imperfections on our roads. Not as impressive as some of its competitors like the BMW 1 Series in terms of handling, especially around corners. But it’s not shabby at all.
Yes there was a slight bit of lag that I experienced when I wanted to put foot, but to be honest, that’s not something you’ll be doing on a regular basis, so it’s negligible in the greater scheme of things. Whether you’re cruising through the city or tackling long stretches of road, the A200 will manage just fine.
In terms of price, it’s important to note that Mercedes-Benz vehicles often come with a premium price tag. In fact people on X (formerly known as Twitter) were up in arms recently when the financials via Agility Finance were spoken about by some of the car journeys. You could literally see jaws drop.
While the A200 is more affordable than some of its larger siblings, it’s still positioned as a luxury compact car. The cost may be a bit higher compared to some competitors in the segment, but you’re paying for the iconic three-pointed star emblem, impeccable build quality, and a range of advanced features.
So the base A200 Progressive Line will set you back R791 550 before options The AMG Line styling sets you back an extra R29 000
While it’s not the most affordable option, the Mercedes A200 justifies its price with a luxurious experience, impressive ride comfort, and a sense of prestige. No one will dare question your choice of car when you arrive in a Mercedes. A definite young Exec’s choice
QUICK STATS
MERCEDES-BENZ A200 AMG LINE HATCH
ENGINE: 1.3-litre, straight 4-cylinder, turbo petrol
POWER: 120kW at 5 500rpm
TORQUE: 270Nm at 2 000rpm
GEARBOX: 7-speed automatic
DRIVE: FWD
0 – 100KM/H: 8.7 seconds
TOP SPEED: 225km/h
AVERAGE FUEL CONSUMPTION: 7.4 litres per 100km
FUEL TANK SIZE: 43 litres
COMBINED RANGE: 580km
CO2 e: 128 g/km
LENGTH: 4.4m
WIDTH: 1.99m
HEIGHT: 1.4m
WHEELBASE: 2.7m
AIRBAGS: 7
LANE KEEP ASSIST: Yes
NATURAL RIVALS: Audi A3 35 TFSI hatch, BMW 120i, MINI Cooper Clubman
PRICE RIVALS: Alfa Romeo Tonale Speciale, Audi A4 35 TDI, BMW 318i, Ford Everest XLT, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Exceed, Opel Zafira Life, Toyota GR Corolla Core man, Toyota Quantum GL, Volkswagen Amarok Life 4Motion
MAINTENANCE PLAN: 5-year/100 000km, Roadside Assistance
WARRANTY: 5-year/100 000km
BADDIE INDEX: 4/5
PRICE STANDARD: R820 550
- The yellow car is dressed in UK spec.