Buying Used: Mercedes-Benz A-Class for Under R500k

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class brought the luxuries for which this German automaker is renowned to the masses at a more attainable price. We explore the fourth-generation model as a used buy. 

Mercedes-Benz A-Class sedan driving

Image: CAR Magazine

The fourth-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class was introduced to the South African market in 2018, not long after its global debut. The car was a significant upgrade over the third generation, which, at its 2012 debut, presented one of the most prominent design changes between generations ever seen on any car. But design aside, it also represented something else for the German automaker: it made premium motoring more attainable, and the tech-forward experience was fun. Remember the “Hey Mercedes” voice prompts for the early MBUX infotainment systems?

Locally, the fourth-generation A-Class lineup comprised the A200, A250, and A200d in hatchback and sedan body styles, with the A35 AMG and A45 S AMG later joining the fray. The A200 comes with a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine that sends 120 kW and 250 N.m to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the A250’s 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine develops a livelier 165 kW and 350 N.m (read our road test on the latter model here). We say ‘had’ because this engine, as well as the 110 kW/320 N.m 2.0-litre turbodiesel, has since been omitted from the lineup.

The two AMG models are both powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces substantial outputs in two different states of tune. The ‘smaller’ of the two sends 225 kW and 400 N.m to all four wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 0-100 km/h time is quick, too, at 4.7 seconds. The A45 S AMG dials everything up to 11, with 310 kW and 500 N.m channelled to all four corners, allowing it to shoot from 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. Only the A35 AMG is available in both sedan and hatchback formats.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class sedan side profile

Image: CAR Magazine

What to look out for when buying a used Mercedes-Benz A-Class

At our price cap, it’s likely that the car you’re after will be nearing the end of, or have passed, its five-year maintenance plan. Check that the car has a full service history and keep in mind that unless you opt for an aftermarket maintenance plan, upcoming service costs will come out of your pocket – and it won’t be cheap. If not properly maintained, the engines’ turbochargers may be prone to failure, as well as the transmission. Hints of possible problems may include erratic shifting, excessive smoke from the exhausts, or unusual clacking noises.

The MBUX infotainment system was in its infancy in 2018. Though advanced, it is not without glitches. Fortunately, these can be resolved with a software update that’s available through the dealership network. Ensure that features like Bluetooth, voice control, and smartphone connectivity function properly, especially as these can prove very costly to repair once the car’s warranty and maintenance plan have expired.

Being lavishly trimmed for a compact car and possessed of impressively refined road manners, the A-Class changed the way in which many perceived the hatchback segment – bringing typical Mercedes-Benz luxuries to the masses at a more attainable price point…the latter even more so once time and depreciation have run their respective courses.

Click here to browse thousands of new and used vehicles here with CARmag!

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The post Buying Used: Mercedes-Benz A-Class for Under R500k appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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