Mercedes-Benz A150 2005 Review

But that's how much the new entry level Mercedes-Benz A Class retails for – $29,900 (plus on-roads of course).

What do you get for your money? A better car than you used to, especially in terms of size, style and handling.

We went for a squirt in the A150 this week, standard in every respect except for a flash set of alloys.

• A150 is available only as a three-door. Nothing wrong with that and it certainly lends a sporty air to the baby Benz. But it's a bit disappointing in the performance department.

   
• Like most new models it's physically larger than the one it replaces – 232mm longer from nose to tail and an extra 45mm wider to be exact. More shoulder and rear leg room.

   

• 1.5-litre petrol engine pushes out 70kW at 5200rpm and 140Nm of torque between 3500 and 4000rpm. It lacks any punch down low, but you can wind this little feller up and once you have a few revs on board it's a differents story.

   

• Not exactly what you'd call nippy in city traffic but it does sit happily in the fast lane on the motorway. No cruise though.

   

• Classic trim is standard and that does not include leather. Contoured driver's seat offers impressive comfort.

   

• A five speed manual transmission is stan- dard. We expected a six-speed box at a minimum, bearing in mind other Euro offerings at the moment. Autotronic CVT shift is available as an option.

   

• Ride is generally good but can become unsettled on lesser secondary roads, courtesy of the short wheelbase. Selective damping system adjusts shock absorber rates to driving situ- ation.

   

• Fuel consumption from the 60-litre tank was higher than expected. Rated at 6.7L/100km but trip computer showed an average of 8.9L/100km which is relatively high for such a small car – and it takes premium.

   

• Standard equipment includes air, power windows and mirrors, keyless entry, front, side and window airbags, adaptive seatbelt force limiters, multifunction steering wheel, speed- sensitive power steering, selective damping system, ABS, Brake Assist and stability control.

   

• Extensive use of high-strength steel alloys combined with high-strength bonded joints and additional support sections assist in keeping the vehicle's occupants protected even in the event of a serious accident. Has just received a full five stars in European safety tests.

   

• 15x6 inch steel wheels standard with 185/65 series tyres and wheel covers. Good to see a full-sized spare.

VERDICT: Attractive, especially at the price. Like the style and the feel. Really like the comfy seats. But we'd pop for one of the other models in the range with a larger engine given the choice.