New Mercedes A-Class arrives

The new Mercedes A-Class is to be launched here just in time for the January sales rush. Available in the normal five-door format, the premium brand has added a three-door version as well to this, the second generation of its entry-level model.

The current range got less than glorious reviews but the new version is a vast improvement, both in driving characteristics and overall fit and finish.

In the original model the design left many confused as to whether it was an upmarket hatchback or a high-roofed mini-people carrier. Inside the problem continued - the interior trim had more in common with a standard Peugeot or Renault than a premium German brand.

Now, however, the new model shows up the old for what it is. The shorter wheelbase has been scrapped and the long version is now standard. More importantly, the three-door version goes some way to creating a more sporty image for the car.

Trim and instruments really are Mercedes. The most striking feature is the near-vertical steering wheel, more Formula One than family hatch.

The entry level model, previously the 1.4-litre A140, is now a 1.5-litre 95bhp unit, called the A150. Mercedes claims the power output across the range has increased by 38 per cent, while fuel consumption has been cut by 10 per cent.

We haven't tested the A150 yet, but we did try all the other versions, starting with the A170 116 bhp and A200 136 bhp petrol and moving on to the A180 and A200 diesel models.

A future flagship A200 Turbo version will offer 193bhp, but is not due for release until mid-2005. Of the petrols, we found them strong and relatively silent, but we must await the A150's arrival before we can judge just how well it does. Official figures show it manages 0-62mph in a relatively sedate 12.6 seconds.

Prices start at €22,650 for the three-door versions, while five-door models start at €23,750. Mercedes importers Motor Distributors Ltd (MDL) say the new prices are €1,000 less than the original model. A car that's actually going down in price despite being leagues ahead of its predecessor? What is the world coming to?