Mercedes-Benz A200 2006 Review

Here is a three door super-mini hatch back with a 2.0-litre turbo-charged engine delivering a hefty 142kW/280Nm output through the electronically modulated front wheels.

To say it has some get up and go out of the blocks is an understatement.

Not as wild a ride as say a Subaru WRX or similar hot-rod , the Benz Turbo turns a 0-100km sprint in 7.5 seconds but it feels fast due to all that torque at low to medium engine speeds. The Turbo's relatively light weight also adds to the sporty feel.

The test vehicle was equipped with a CVT automatic transmission called Autotronic which accentuated the roller skate analogy. There is no buttoning off when you push the throttle, just a seamless headlong rush of strong acceleration, no gear changes, no stumbles.

See a gap in traffic and bang, you're there.

Need to get out of the way of a 62 tonner on the freeway, not a problem.

This is the ultimate A-Class available in Australia with plenty of luxury and safety and is pretty good buying at $44,400 for the six speed manual. The CVT is extra but worth it for driving ease, performance and economy.

It offers a sequential shift mode with seven "steps" or gears.

It drinks premium unleaded but not much averaging around 8.0-litres/100km in mixed driving.

The three door body looks sporty in this guise with chunky 17in alloys and deeper bumpers with dual tail pipes poking out the rear.

It's equipped to the Benz Avantgarde standard which brings a swag of goodies and a funky interior including metal pedals.

The gorgeous deep maroon test vehicle featured a check upholstery and metal insert accents inside along with sophisticated aircon, steering wheel controls, cruise and a cool sounding audio system.

Ancillaries are electrically operated.

The three door body can accommodate five in relative comfort thanks to the clever design of the A-Class. You sit fairly high which aids access and gives good all round visibility.

The rear seat folds to expand luggage space which hides a full size spare under the floor.

Handling dynamics are impressive as the Turbo is screwed down firmly and has sharp steering. The brakes are excellent. A special rear suspension system was developed for the car and the dampers are adaptive - change according to driving conditions.

Ride is firmer than other A-Classes but you expect that in a sporty number like this.

Despite its size, the Turbo has a five star NCAP crash rating.

It's a practical size offering more room than expected inside and easily fits in small parking spaces and the garage.

Welcome to the future.