Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Hatchback (five-door, with a saloon derivative badged as the A-Class Saloon since 2018) · 1998 to present

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class has been sold in the UK since 1998, moving through four generations. The original W168 and W169 versions were taller, compact MPV-style cars, while the W176 (2012) switched to a conventional hatchback shape to compete with the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3. The current W177 generation, launched in 2018, added a saloon body style alongside the hatchback. Engines have ranged from small petrols to efficient diesels, with a plug-in hybrid A250e introduced for buyers wanting lower company car tax. As a premium-badged family hatchback, it remains a common sight on UK roads, popular with private buyers and company car drivers alike. Trim levels have included SE, Sport, AMG Line and various limited editions, with strong emphasis on technology such as the MBUX infotainment system in newer cars.

Body type

Hatchback (five-door, with a saloon derivative badged as the A-Class Saloon since 2018)

Years (UK)

1998 to present

Typical engine

1.3 to 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol, with 1.5 and 2.0-litre diesel options and a 1.3-litre petrol plug-in hybrid (A250e) in later models

Fuels available

3 options

Fuel and powertrain options

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is sold in the UK with the following powertrain options across its current and recent model years:

Petrol Diesel Plug-in hybrid

Things to check at MOT

Below are common inspection items that owners and technicians often pay attention to on the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. These align with standard DVSA MOT criteria. Every individual vehicle is different, and the MOT history of a specific car can be checked on gov.uk using its registration plate.

Check for uneven or excessive tyre wear, particularly on sportier AMG Line models with lower-profile tyres
Inspect panoramic sunroof drainage channels for blockages, which can cause water ingress and electrical faults
Listen for timing chain tensioner rattle on early petrol engines, especially on cold start
Examine LED or xenon headlight units for correct alignment and any condensation inside the lens
Check diesel models for DPF warning lights and ensure the system regenerates correctly during longer runs

Frequently asked questions

What should I check before buying a used A-Class?

Look closely at service history, confirm the correct cambelt or timing chain maintenance where applicable, and check the DVSA MOT history online to review any advisories or failures recorded for that specific vehicle.

Does the A-Class need to pass an MOT test differently to other hatchbacks?

No, it's tested under the same standard UK MOT criteria as any other car of its age, covering areas like emissions, lights, brakes and structural condition.

Are plug-in hybrid A-Class models subject to different road tax rules?

Yes, the A250e plug-in hybrid benefits from lower CO2-based first-year tax rates compared to petrol or diesel models, though standard annual rates apply after the first year - check gov.uk for current figures.

How can I confirm a used A-Class hasn't been clocked or had its mileage altered?

Cross-reference the mileage shown with the DVSA MOT history service online, which records the mileage logged at each test and can highlight inconsistencies.

Run a free reg lookup on any A-Class

Enter any A-Class registration on MotifyMe^® to see its MOT history, tax status, full vehicle details and an estimated valuation. Free, instant, and no account needed.

Run a free reg lookup →