Buying a used Mercedes A-Class

For a top-quality hatchback with lots of technology and luxuries, a used Mercedes A Class is a premium, high-performing option. With plenty of used models available on the market, there is sure to be an A Class with an engine and trim option to suit your needs. Find out all about the different used Mercedes A Class cars available and how to find the best one for you with this SPOTiCAR guide.  

What models are available?  

Since the first generation was launched in 1998, the A Class has gained a reputation as a premium, high-spec hatchback that offers driving performance as well as practicality for families. With plenty of engine, trim and transmission options available in the range, drivers can get all the performance and fuel efficiency they need:  

• A180 - a 1.3L turbocharged petrol that offers 136bhp, 53.5mpg and a top speed of 134mph.  

• A200 - a slightly upgraded version of the standard petrol engine offers the same fuel efficiency with the added benefits of 163bhp and a top speed of 140mph.  

• A250 - a 2.0L petrol engine that offers similar levels of power to most hot hatchbacks, including 224bhp and a top speed of 155mph.  

• AMG A35 - part of Mercedes’ premium AMG range, this 2.0L turbocharged engine is sure to keep any petrolhead happy with 306bhp and a 0-62mph acceleration of under 5 seconds.  

• A180d - this 1.5L diesel engine is the standard offering in the range and offers the best fuel economy of them all at 74.3mpg.  

• A200d - this 2.0L diesel engine offers both performance and fuel efficiency with 148bhp and 70.6mpg. 

• A220d - a slightly faster version of the 2.0L, this is top of the diesel range, offering 187bhp and a top speed of 146mph.  

In terms of transmission, there are two automatic options (seven and eight-speed) and a six-speed manual in the range. Plus, Mercedes’ reputation for premium tech and interior luxuries means there are trim levels to suit every budget and driving need:  

• SE - the standard spec in the range, this model is still equipped with plenty of technology, including Active Lane Keeping, Speed Limit Assist, air con, sat nav, climate control and Active Brake Assist.  

• Sport - a dynamic upgrade, the Sport offers LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels and automatic climate control.  

• Sport Executive - this offers the same features as the Sport, only more luxurious, including 18-inch alloys and a larger dashboard touchscreen.  

• AMG Line - famous for its hi-spec offering, this model offers a branded body kit and a 10.3-inch dashboard touchscreen.  

• AMG Line Executive - this offers the same features as the AMG Line but with the benefits of extra engine options.  

• Premium - extra comfort is the main advantage of this model, including rear seat armrests, Keyless entry and Active Parking Assist.  

• AMG Line Premium Plus - the top of the trim range, extra features include multi-bean LED headlights, a panoramic glass sunroof and automatic traffic sign recognition.  

Which used Mercedes A-Class should you choose? 

The huge range of engine and trim options available in the A Class range means there’s a model to suit every driver’s needs. For example, if you’re a family that lives in a town or city and needs a practical hatchback to commute short journeys in, then the A200 SE will offer a fuel-efficient engine, plenty of space and technological features to keep you safe and comfortable.  

Alternatively, business drivers that cover long journeys on motorways can benefit from the powerful performance, fuel efficiency and extra safety features in the A200d Sport or Premium models. Plus, for petrolheads looking to have some fun and look great while out on the road, the AMG Line provides plenty of power, steering performance and premium trims.  

What should you look out for in a used Mercedes A-Class? 

The range of technologies available in Mercedes A-Class cars is a major advantage for many buyers. However, it also means that reports of electrical problems are higher than average across these models. There are also some key faults you need to look out for when test driving an A Class or reviewing its MOT and service history: 

• Airbag faults: subject to a recall in 2014, 2016 and 2017, it’s important to check the details of any model from this year to see if it has this fault.  

• Oil and fuel leaks: the high pressures inside some fuel lines have caused problems in some models, so thorough checks should be carried out to ensure a car’s not at risk of an engine fire.  

• Gearbox and brake failures: cracks or failures in the dual-clutch automatic gearbox and vacuum line in some brakes have been reported as problems.  

• Seating and visibility: taking an A Class for a test drive will help you see if the seating position and level of visibility suits you, as this has been a reported problem for some drivers.  

SPOTiCAR part-exchange programme 

At SPOTiCAR, we run a part-exchange programme that allows customers to put their Mercedes A Class towards a new purchase or contribute their own car towards one of our used premium hatchback models. To start the part-exchange process, use our free online vehicle valuation tool to get an estimated price before using our find a retailer tool to book an appointment at one of 500 UK retailers.