The 2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class arrives in the U.S. market with an array of technology and an appealing driving experience.
Paul Clinton・Former Senior Web Editor
May 8, 2019
The base A220 retails for $32,500.
Photo by Kelly Bracken.
2 min to read
Earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz began selling its 2019 A-Class — a new entry luxury sedan that brings plenty of value for the sticker price, and should provide a solid offering in corporate fleets as a sales-perk vehicle to supplement the CLA and C-Class sedans that now fill this role.
First, a bit of history. The German automaker had been selling the A-Class in Europe as a coupe, and will offer this fourth-generation model around the globe and in the U.S. for the first time. A long-wheelbase version will be sold in China.
Ad Loading...
Skeptics might ask why Mercedes-Benz needs another entry sedan in the U.S., but this model provides some differentiation from the longer, slopier-roof CLA and sportier C-Class. This platform allows the automaker to load it full of tech, while keeping its starting price in the low $30,000s.
Simplified Engine Lineup
With the vehicle's powertrain, Mercedes-Benz is following the old adage about doing a thing very well. Its sole model, the A220, is available with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 188 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. It's linked with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that delivers power to standard front-wheel or 4Matic all-wheel drive.
We tested a model with 18-inch wheels. For an extra $500, you can add the 19-inch AMG wheels.
The ride dynamics of the sedan are generally good, and the vehicle responds well during cornering maneuvers.
Interior Features and Technology
A dazzling pair of dash-mounted screens bolster the new MBUX infotainment system.
Photo by Kelly Bracken.
Mercedes-Benz stuffs the A-Class with plenty of standard tech and interior features you'd expect on pricier models.
Ad Loading...
Sitting in the driver's seat, you will notice its pair of 10.3-inch screens that display a range of data and entertainment on a single piece of glass, which floats on the dashboard above three turbine-style vents.
The clean, bright screen provides a "Wow" moment for the infotainment system called MBUX that was first added to the third-generation Sprinter van and has been rolling out on refreshed models. The center console includes a track pad that's fairly easy to use, but to minimize distraction drivers should gain familiarity with it before using it on the road.
The 2022 Bolt EUV expands Chevrolet’s EV lineup as a utility-type vehicle with a range of 250 miles on a full charge. It will be sold alongside the 2022 Bolt EV model. The Bolt EUV is approximately six inches longer than the Bolt EV.
The 2021 Cadillac Escalade 4WD Sport Platinum is the most expensive model sold by General Motors. But its brand cachet makes it the ideal pinnacle fleet vehicle to help retain high-value senior execs with a high-value luxury SUV.
Powered by a 5.3L V-8, generating 355 horsepower and 383 lb.-ft. of torque, the engine is paired to a10-speed automatic transmission. It is ideal for off-road work applications and can transport an eight-person work crew with tools and equipment.
The 2020 model-year Bolt EV increases its driving range on a full charge to an EPA-estimated 259 miles, which is up by 21 miles over the previous model. In addition, there is an impressive array of driver-assistance technologies.
