If you have not read my previous review of the old A-class, do read it. Only then will you appreciate why I am beeming over this latest manifestation of the A-class from Mercedes Benz. Quality issues that I had harped about the A-class in the past no longer can be found in this new car. It is as if a faux pas on quality never occured before. Simply brilliant.
First Impressions
I called the old car a breadbox on four wheels. Now, the new car earns the title "rabbit on skates". Design is always subjective and to me, the front of the new A-class looks like a bunny with a small, tight rear. It isn't ugly but it is isn't anything to shout about either.
Interior
Marked improvements! Absolutely fabulous. Creature comforts such as steering column audio control, auto-chromatic rear view mirror, telescopic adjustable steering wheel synergistically combines to pamper the driver. The redesigned chromed rim dials adds a touch of class. If the old A-class was a plate of $2 dollars chicken rice, the new A-class will be a plate of $10 dollars chicken rice, served at a restaurant and comes topped with caviar.
Performance
The new 1.7 liter in-line 4 engine replaces the old 1.6 litre engine. Without dwelling into the technical specifications (lazy la lazy.), push the new engine past 3000 rpm and you have rabbit-in-a-box performance. Angry buzzing bees under the bonnet comes as standard at that engine speed, sadly. Low end torque is a little lacking for city driving but still forgivable.
Handling
Like a rabbit, the new A-class switches directions rapidly. And definitely much better than the old breadbox. Corners are dealt with an air of composure and confidence, all thanks to the firmer suspension (again, too lazy to find out the suspension setup). Push the car through corners and you will definately get into mild understeer which can be corrected with a quick dab of the brakes which bites like an hungry alligator. Yet progressively so.
The new 1.7 liter in-line 4 engine replaces the old 1.6 litre engine. Without dwelling into the technical specifications (lazy la lazy.), push the new engine past 3000 rpm and you have rabbit-in-a-box performance. Angry buzzing bees under the bonnet comes as standard at that engine speed, sadly. Low end torque is a little lacking for city driving but still forgivable.
Handling
Like a rabbit, the new A-class switches directions rapidly. And definitely much better than the old breadbox. Corners are dealt with an air of composure and confidence, all thanks to the firmer suspension (again, too lazy to find out the suspension setup). Push the car through corners and you will definately get into mild understeer which can be corrected with a quick dab of the brakes which bites like an hungry alligator. Yet progressively so.
Even the semi automatic gearbox is brilliant. Leave it in drive, it upshifts/downshifts with minimal shift-shock. In manual, it is way, and I really mean, way better than the old retarted transmission (it's the software! written by grannies!). Manual upshifts/downshifts are instantenous. Best of all, the old "nanny behaviour" (the old transmission doesn't allow you to downshift at high engine RPM lest you let lose a bolt or two) of the past transmission is gone! Yipee!
Conclusion
I'm in love with this car. For it's creature comforts. For it's ability to win my heart over despite initial disapointment and resentment of the previous A-class. And perhaps for Mercedes Benz's success in infusing rights into a car plagued by wrongs.
Oh, I forget to mention one gripe that I do have with the car. The steering feel is feather light (which reminds me of the G9 corolla) and feedback is non existent. But i'm prepared to overlook this fault. Who wouldn't? Nobody is perfect.
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