Mercedes-Benz Company known all over the world for its ability to produce cars High Quality with good technical characteristics. The lineup Mercedes is represented by cars, among which there is a suitable option for businessmen, newcomers to the road, business ladies, elegant girls and tough guys. Another page in the development of German car brand was the creation of compact urban transport - the Mercedes A-Class. We will review owner reviews, technical specifications and test results in this article.

general information

First Mercedes-Benz generation The A-Class was presented at the exhibition in 1997, but the world saw the prototype back in 1993. Such cars were something new for those times, and the compact urban hatchback immediately occupied a niche in its segment. There was only one drawback that competitors planned to take advantage of - the relatively high price.

The first representative of the A-class was the single-volume hatchback Vision A 93. The chosen body type made it possible to experiment in design terms, creating a comfortable sedan or minivan, cargo volume which was no less than 1000 liters. That is, the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class was created to meet the requirements of any consumer.

The Vision A 93 model had a relatively short length (3.35 m). The floor of the car was slightly raised, which became important point in terms of additional security. The public, having appreciated all the advantages of such a car, left positive reviews, and Mercedes began looking for a plant to produce the new A-Class. The search lasted a long time, but at the end of 1994 the site was found. It became Rastatt - the third plant of the Mercedes-Benz concern.

In September 1995, a car rolled off the assembly line that was longer than the Vision A 93 - the additional space was mainly given to the already large luggage compartment. The cars, which received the designation W 168 from Mercedes, were built according to the “sandwich” principle: the interior was located on the upper level, and the engine and transmission were installed on the lower level, that is, partially under the floor. The two-level body concept provided additional protection driver and passengers. At head-on collision the power plant and transmission were shifted down, which prevented them from penetrating into the cabin and injuring passengers.

Mercedes-Benz A-class and complied with safety standards not only for frontal collisions, but also for side impacts. Again, protection was achieved by being located 20 cm above the floor. In addition, it is made of two panels; in the event of an impact, it is the floor structure that takes the brunt of the impact, and passengers are above the deformation level.

Enhanced safety measures for driver and passengers, spacious salon And luggage compartment allowing you to turn a car into a cargo minivan by folding the seats, unique technology application of paintwork on the body, as well as an interesting exterior, made A-Class Mercedes incredibly popular. So much so that the first models were sold out in short time, and the rest of those interested had to sign up in a queue. And, it is worth saying, these cars do not lose popularity.

First generation and restyled models

The cars entered the market in 1998. Despite their compactness, the cars were spacious inside - the interior size and ground clearance corresponded Ford Mondeo and BMW 3-Series. The length of the first model was 15 cm shorter than that of the same year. Volkswagen Polo, and the height was 1.6 m.

Mercedes A-class cars 1998-2003. were distinguished by incredible ergonomics and great possibilities in terms of interior transformation - a five-seater car quickly turned into a full-fledged station wagon.

The first generation of Class A Mercedes was equipped with the latest engines for that time. Gasoline engines of 1.4 and 1.6 liters were installed, with a capacity of 82 and 102 horsepower, respectively. Subsequently, turbodiesels appeared with 60 and 90 hp. With. Closer to 2003, they began to install 1.9-liter gasoline engines with a power of 125 hp. With.

In 2000, a slightly updated hatchback entered the market. Along with it, an extended version with the prefix “L” appeared. And in 2004, a full-fledged restyled model appeared. It was a three-door version with the dimensions of a five-door car. However, restyling concerns not only the exterior, but also the “filling” of the car. More than two hundred patented inventions were used in new models.

The third generation appeared on the market in 2008. But the world saw a full-fledged second restyling only in 2012. The changes were radical - the Mercedes-Benz A-Class turned into a small, most compact hatchback with the features of its C-Class predecessors. And finally, it underwent its last update in 2015. This time the changes affected the interior, but not dramatically. However, this was enough for the car to look more aggressive, more masculine, as befits a Mercedes-Benz representative.

Technical characteristics of the Mercedes A-Class

The first generation models were produced with a length of 3,606 mm and 3,776 mm Long versions. The width was 1,719 mm, and the ground clearance was 150 mm. The first cars were equipped with a wide range of engines. The base model included 1.4- and 1.6-liter engines, the power of which was 82 and 102 Horse power respectively.

Improved modifications were equipped with 1.9-liter engines with a power of 125 hp. s., and in the top ones - 2.1-liter engines generating up to 140 “horses”. 1.7-liter turbo engines were also used, which produced 75 or 95 liters. s., which depended on the level of forcing. The consumer has 2 transmission options to choose from - manual transmission and automatic transmission.

The miniature hatchback A 38 AMG boasted the best technical characteristics. The Mercedes A-Class of this modification had a pair of gasoline engines, each with a displacement of 1.9 liters. The total output is 250 horsepower, acceleration to 100 km/h is carried out in 5.7 seconds.

Representatives of class A have independent spring suspension at the front and semi-independent at the rear. Models are equipped with disk brake mechanisms installed on all wheels, and power steering.

Crash tests

A-class Mercedes, like other cars, have repeatedly passed crash tests, showing good results for the safety of the driver and passengers. Quite decent protection for children in child seats. Pedestrian safety remains at an average level - 17 points out of 36. Security system production cars represented by the following elements:

• dual airbags;
• front seat belt load limiters;
• seat-mounted side airbags.

The tests carried out on the Mercedes A-Class showed not ideal, but decent results - safety corresponds international standards and keeps at the level of Mercedes-Benz.

Test drive results

A-class cars “Mercedes style” are powerful, easy to control and comfortable, they move smoothly on the road if it is smooth and smooth. But as soon as bumps appear, the ride becomes much more noticeable - the “stiff” suspension is one of the main disadvantages identified during the test drive. Low ground clearance was also noted, which is a minus in some cases and a plus in others. So, with the installation of body kits, the car becomes even lower, which makes the car unsuitable for daily trips around the city.

How much do these cars cost?

The cost of a Mercedes A-Class depends on the year of manufacture of the car, configuration and installed motor. For example, new modifications are sold in Russia at a price of 1.5 million rubles, and this figure can exceed 3 million, which depends on the built-in and added options. Used cars produced in 2000-2007 will cost an average of 250-400 thousand rubles, and 2013-2015. - from 800 thousand to 1.4 million rubles.

Mercedes A-Class: owner reviews

The design of the new car body makes it an ideal option for girls, and the pre-restyling models are popular among men. The car is especially convenient for those who often travel outside the city for fishing, hunting, or just relaxing with friends in nature. Thus, the Mercedes A-Class is assessed from several angles in owner reviews.

From positive qualities We can highlight wear resistance, reliability, comfort, spaciousness, maneuverability and low consumption fuel. As absolute disadvantages, Mercedes A-Class owners note the expensive Maintenance and low ground clearance. Many people write that if the car is broken, then it is pointless to repair it.

In general, A-Class cars are practical, have a comfortable interior with pleasant seats and a convenient layout, and also meet a high level of safety. Of course, each person has their own requirements for the car and some personal preferences, but many owner reviews of the Mercedes A-Class show good ratings.

Appearing in model line Daimler concern AG in 1998, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class opened up new perspectives on the heights of quality available in everyday life. Trendsetter in automotive world clearly demonstrated that the standard of style of external forms and captivating interior decoration with creative delights is the prerogative of not only huge executive limousines. The one who decides to buy Mercedes-Benz A-Class- compact and economical - will be able to fully experience a quality of life worthy of the highest epithets.

The charm of small forms

In Russia, sales of the third generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class started at the end of 2012. Five-door hatchback flashed like a bright star in the firmament of the compact car segment, defining standards of aesthetics and quality unattainable for many pursuers.

The exterior structure of the new generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class is defined by clear, clearly defined edges. They create a purposeful, uncompromising image that leaves no room for doubt about the extraordinary capabilities of a perfectly composed hatchback. The signature radiator grille, coupled with the headlights and spectacular side air intakes, look sporty and aggressive. An unusual effect is created by the shimmer of light on the alternating concave and convex fragments of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class body - the car seems to be bathing in the rays of the sun, charging with its energy.

Included in the price of a new one Mercedes-Benz A-Class includes a uniquely high level quality solution interior design, achieved for the first time in a model from the compact car segment. Along with finishing materials that are traditionally impeccable in texture and color, conceptual accents are placed using such details as original air deflectors and galvanizing of interior elements with silver chrome.

Sports dynamics

Highly efficient and productive power plants, included in the hatchback's equipment, make its dynamic capabilities truly fantastic. Specifications, like the cost of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, depend on the choice of one of wide range engines. Both diesel and petrol versions are available, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or 7G-DCT. IN top-end configuration the car reaches a speed of 100 km/h in just 6.6 seconds, and an innovative system is responsible for the life and health of passengers preventive security PreSafe.

Find out more detailed information about the features various modifications and buy a Mercedes-Benz A-Class in Moscow at the most favorable conditions You can visit the Avilon car showroom - we are always glad to see you!

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a unique car of its kind, reflecting exclusive body design and unrivaled driving dynamics.

To buy a Mercedes-Benz A-Class, you should definitely use the services official dealer"MB-Izmailovo". Price for this vehicle will vary depending on the configuration and technical specifications, as well as external and internal equipment packages. We provide our clients with high service and individual terms of cooperation.

Features of the packages

Among the main car modifications that are very popular among domestic consumer, we can highlight:

• A-Class A 200 Sport saloon. Powerful gasoline power unit (163 hp), spacious interior for 5 passengers, 7 stepped automatic transmission– this is only the smallest list of benefits that the owner of this configuration will receive.
• A-Class A 200 Progressive hatchback. The main advantages of this class of car are environmental friendliness and low fuel consumption, reaching only 6.9 liters in urban conditions and 4.8 on the highway.
• A-Class A 200 Style hatchback. Improved maneuverability is achieved thanks to a front-wheel drive 7-speed transmission. A stylish exterior and impeccable interior quality complement the already rich package.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class – comfort and exceptional driving safety

Exceptional safety of drivers and passengers is ensured by the presence of advanced active and passive safety. Impeccable quality interior decoration The interior is expressed in high-quality upholstery, spacious interior space, and exclusive accessories.

In our Mercedes-Benz showroom, the A-Class is available in three colors: white, red and metallic gray.

To find out the current cost of a Mercedes-Benz A-Class, call one of the phone numbers listed on our website. Our employees will provide a comprehensive answer to any question you are interested in. In their competence: the availability of a new Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the current cost, the possibility of purchasing on credit, available methods and payment systems.

Our showroom has a wide variety of versions of this Mercedes-Benz line. By contacting us, you provide yourself with a free test drive.

The newest Mercedes A-Class 2016-2017 is ready for production and will be officially presented this fall at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Although why wait for autumn, Mercedes made a decision and declassified the changed exterior and interior.

New Mercedes A-class 2016-2017 model year

Mercedes A-Class design in a new body

Changes in the appearance of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class 2016-2017 are minor. The new Mercedes 2016-2017 received a different front and rear design. Mercedes A-Class 2016-2017 has changed headlights with LEDs in front ( LED High Performance), a different design of the false radiator mesh and bumper with an elegant fine-grained mesh covering the air ducts.

New Mercedes-Benz A-Class 2016-2017

Salon Mercedes A 2016-2017

The German manufacturer talks about the latest, highest quality materials for the interior trim of the A-Class, while there are new color solutions. From components it is necessary to increase the range of vertical adjustment of the seat cushions of the first row by 60 mm, a five-mode system was discovered LED lights interior with the possibility of choosing one of 12 colors, screen multimedia system increased to 8 inches.

Salon Mercedes A Class hatchback 2016-2017

dimensions

The dimensions of the Mercedes A class in the new body are as follows:

• car length – 4,292 mm;
• width – 1,780 mm;
• height – 1,433 mm.

In this segment this year, competitors among hatchbacks have been updated.

Configurations of the new Mercedes A class 2016-2017

The A 160 version with 75 kW (102 hp) is a new model in the A-Class. The efficiency of the new champion is 80 kW (109 hp) and fuel consumption is 3.5 l/100 km. CO2 emissions are 89 g/km. Also new are manual transmission versions dynamic model A 250 and A 250 Sport.
The A 220 D is now 5 kW (7 hp) more powerful than previously with 130 kW (177 hp), while the A 250 Sport and Sport 250 models with 4matic all-wheel drive can now develop 160 kW ( 218 hp) instead of 155 kW (211 hp). with automatic transmission 7G-dct with double clutch The A-Class now has Start Assist for quick acceleration from a standstill. In total, the model range includes 17 versions. “ECO display” accepts new uniform to assist the driver in an environmentally friendly driving style.
Mercedes-AMG A45 with system all-wheel drive The 4Matic has also undergone a facelift. He received maximum power 280 kW (381 hp) with a torque of 475 Nm. This PowerPack provides a dynamic view that is second to none. At the same time, its fuel consumption remains at the same level.

Mercedes A 45 AMG 45 2016-2017

The new generation of A-class became the first Mercedes-Benz car with comprehensive smartphone integration: infotainment systems, Apple's carplay (for iPhone) and mirrorlink will be available from 2016. In order not to distract the driver during the trip, the content is displayed on the screen on the corresponding smartphone.
With numerous driving assistance systems against drowsiness, attention detection system DISTRONIC plus remote control, The A-Class is able to give the driver protection. Some help systems have been revised. For example, the standard type of collision avoidance Assist warning radar, adaptive system braking to reduce the risk of rear-end collisions. LED headlights increased power offer additional security at night thanks to their wide beam of radiation and light in a color similar to daylight.

Technical characteristics of Mercedes A 2016-2017

Dynamic selection allows for a range of settings, in combination with new suspension. The driver can change the vehicle's damping characteristics using dynamic selection switch. There is a choice between “Comfort” mode and Sport mode. There are sensors for acceleration, steering angle, and steering speed. Proportional valve with electronic drive for each shock absorber, for control.
The Mercedes A45 AMG 4matic is equipped with dynamic driving modes “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport +” and “Individual”. How additional function, in AMG, there will be a dynamic package “plus” which includes mechanical front axle with differential lock, sports suspension with adaptive shock absorbers and “Race” driving mode.
A series of engines for the updated Mercedes A-Class 2016, among other things, has undergone changes. Original gasoline The version is now Mercedes-Benz A160 with a 1.6-liter. engine of 102 horsepower, and power diesel The Mercedes A220d engine has increased to 177 horses, the A250 Sport version has a 218 horsepower engine and 6 manual transmissions.

engine Mercedes Benz A 45 AMG 2016-2017

At the top of the model A-Class series version of Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG 4 MATIC with 2.0-liter. turbo engine, which subsequently produces 381 hp and 475 Nm, 7G-DCT AMG Speedshift mechanized gearbox, having been updated, it received modified gear ratios all gears above 2nd. Increased engine power and a modernized gearbox allowed the acceleration time to be minimized to 4.2 s., maximum speed limited to -250 km/h.

Price Mercedes A-class 2016-2017

Applications for the updated Mercedes A class hatchback in Russia have already begun. Sale basic version will be carried out at a price of 1,461,950 rubles. with 102 hp engine
Further, depending on the configuration, the car will add 300 thousand - 390 thousand rubles to the cost. Top version Mercedes AMG A 45 4Matic will cost 3,145,000 rubles.

Video Mercedes-Benz A-Class 2016-2017:

Photo of Mercedes A-Class 2016-2017:

The appearance of the smallest on the market Mercedes A-class caused a huge scandal, which German engineers still don’t want to remember. Of course, journalists proved during tests that the A-Class can simply roll over on the road! However, this should not scare buyers of used A-Classes.

In fact, the drivers ended up winning. After the A-Class failed the so-called “moose test”, Mercedes engineers seriously modified chassis and, most importantly, equipped all machines without exception with the system ESP stabilization. And at the same time, no additional money was taken from buyers for it. Therefore, you can absolutely safely buy an A-class for your beloved women, since there is not too much chance that they will not be able to control this car. After all, ESP will not allow you to not only roll over, but even go into a skid! Plus, we must not forget about the presence of airbags (their presence must be checked at a company service station, since, according to mechanics, airbags costing almost $1 thousand apiece are not always inserted during repairs after an accident).

Most of those presented on our Mercedes market A-Classes have a standard body. However, from Europe you can bring an elongated version of the Ashka, which amazes primarily with its huge space in the cabin. There is so much space there that it’s hard to compare the extended A-class with compact hatchbacks It’s just funny - in terms of interior length, this model competes with the luxurious S-Class. And, it’s absolutely impossible to believe, he wins! For example, in the S-class the distance from the pedals to the back of the rear seat is 1978 mm, and in the long-wheelbase A-class it is as much as 2005 mm! Therefore, if you have plans to purchase a 3-5 year old A-class, then it is best to look for an extended car, especially since it should cost only $200-600 more than “short” cars. Moreover, the Mercedes A-Class is actually quite small - in length it is smaller than cars such as the Volkswagen Polo, Opel Corsa, Peugeot 206 and Hyundai Getz!

The A-Class also copes well with cargo transportation - if folded rear seats, then the “short” car will fit 1740 liters, and the “long” car will already have 1930 liters. Believe me, this is a very decent volume - Mercedes owners A-class cars usually always boast that they can load an entire supermarket into their “crumb”. However, we must immediately warn you that using the A-Class as a truck is not the best idea. The car's suspension is not designed for frequent work with heavy weight, so constant repairs of the chassis in this case will be inevitable. But the interior design can be somewhat disappointing. The interiors of the A-Class are quite original and are usually done in “cheerful” colors. However, the interior is still rustic for a Mercedes. And, what many people especially don’t like, sitting in the A-Class there is no usual feeling of confidence in the car and in oneself that the “Mercedes” give. But the A-Class impresses with its really high seating position (at the level of parquet SUVs).

Despite its unusual appearance, the A-Class has the same interior features as many other models with a three-pointed star on the hood. For example, it only has one steering column switch. This element is on older machines with high mileage may fail, so it must be carefully checked (replacing the switch will cost $100). It is worth paying attention to the windshield wipers (they are on windshield two, and they work in a non-standard way for modern passenger models diagram). After all, replacing a windshield wiper motor costs $100-150, and the entire wiper mechanism costs more than $350. The prices, it must be said, are considerable for such a modest-sized machine, but you need to immediately prepare for this. Still, we are talking about Mercedes, and not about some nonsense.

When looking for a used A-Class, you can absolutely safely consider cars in modest versions Classic (there are even more expensive Avantgarde and Elegance). The fact is that even the Classic has power steering, electric drive for front windows and mirrors, air conditioning, etc. As practice shows, all the electronic bells and whistles of the A-Class work without problems for a long time. However, the air conditioner, instrument panel, electric drives, and so on must be checked obsessively. Indeed, in some cases, repairing a small detail can cost a lot of money - sometimes, to correct a particular breakdown, you need to change entire electronic components, which are unreasonably expensive.

When designing the new A-Class, it was immediately clear to Mercedes engineers that for this car they needed to create their own range of small power units. The engines turned out to be very good, but they have one bad feature associated with an extremely dense arrangement under the hood. The fact is that you can’t just get close to A-class engines. And, for example, to replace the timing chain it is necessary... to pull out the entire engine! Naturally, this has the most negative impact on the cost of work - replacing a chain, taking into account the cost of spare parts, costs approximately $400-600 (in Russian conditions this operation has to be performed approximately once every three years or every 60-70 thousand km). Yes, by the way, the air conditioning compressor clutch also does not last forever (this part, like many others, can only be replaced with removed engine). But if you close your eyes to these really tangible difficulties with repair and maintenance, then everything Mercedes engines A-classes deserve the highest marks - the talent for creating good and reliable engines cannot be wasted just like that.

Among gasoline engines, the most modest was the 1.4-liter engine with 82 hp. In fact, this is quite enough for a car of this size, but car buyers Mercedes brand often want to have more “horses”. And they are doing the right thing, because the Germans also produced a version of the A160 with a 1.6 liter engine. (102 hp). Cars with these two power units the majority are on the market, although you can also find modifications with a 1.9 liter engine. (125 hp) and 2.1 l. (140 hp, thanks to which the car accelerates faster than 200 km/h and reaches “hundreds” from a standstill in 8.4 seconds). But “charged” A-classes cost Europe quite a lot of money (plus the high price of “customs clearance” is added to this - $4-4.4 thousand versus $1.7 thousand in the case of a 1.4-liter engine).

There are also cars with 1.7 liter diesel engines, which were designated as A160 CDI or A170 CDI. In the first case, the engine produces 60 hp. or 75 hp (after 2001), and in the second the power is already 90 hp. or 95 hp Diesels are very reliable, but they, just like gasoline engines, require quality fuel and proper implementation of required maintenance. The car itself reminds you that it has been carried out, but if more than 15-18 thousand km have passed since the last maintenance, then it is better to visit the service yourself. In addition to periodic oil and filter changes, when operating an A-class in Russia, it is necessary on average about once every 20-30 thousand km. buy spark plugs (usually if the engine starts to run unstably, it is enough to replace only them). Moreover, experienced craftsmen recommend not saving and buying original candles ($12 apiece).

All engines without exception can be operated mechanically and automatic transmission transmission There are a lot of the latter, although there is no need to be surprised - this is a Mercedes. In addition, we must not forget that in Russia very often A-class drivers are women, who in the vast majority of cases also prefer an automatic transmission (the advantage of the Mercedes A-class automatic transmission is its modern design and the ability to manually change speeds). In addition, many cars are equipped with a “semi-automatic”, or rather manual transmission With automatic clutch(there are only two pedals, but the speeds must be switched manually like on a “mechanics”).

According to the experts, the automatic transmission on the A-class is quite reliable, although not without its sins - occasionally on 4-5-year-old cars the gear selector breaks down due to electrical glitches. In this case, repairs will cost approximately $500-700. Well, what if something more happens to the box? serious damage(usually the transmission is “killed” by young “racers” who prove to everyone that they have the fastest car in the world), then in this case the costs will be huge - the automatic transmission costs $3.4 thousand. If we talk about the “mechanics”, then it It is very reliable and cases of its failure are rare. Therefore, if when checking a car with a “handle” the box works clearly and without problems, then we can say with confidence that nothing will happen to it for a long time. Except that the clutch can “lose itself” after 120-150 thousand km. When replacing it, the car owner will be surprised at both the considerable price of the clutch kit ($350) and the high cost of replacement work (as you might guess, to do this you need to pull out the engine and gearbox).

Initially, the A-Class suspension was made quite comfortable, like on all other Mercedes. However, as a result of the modernization carried out after the ill-fated scandal with the “elk” test, the chassis was made much tougher. Yes and ground clearance here is small. And, even despite this, driving on our roads in the A-Class is pleasant, although when hitting large potholes the riders shake noticeably. Therefore, when evaluating the suspension, the main thing is not to compare this car with “adult” Mercedes. As for the reliability of the chassis, here, too, not everything is as great as we are used to seeing with Mercs. If you drive actively on our roads, then the suspension can be repaired often. For example, rear shock absorbers are sometimes only enough for 50-70 thousand km. (the front ones are more durable), and the stabilizer struts lateral stability often “fly” every 20 thousand km. Not too much great resource and other elements of the chassis. The parts for the Ashka suspension cannot be called particularly expensive. For example, rear shock absorbers sells for $66. However, buyers of imported A-Classes from Europe should be prepared for the fact that a few months after purchasing a used car they will have to rebuild the suspension, which on average costs $500-700.

Surprisingly, many Mercedes A-Class have rear drum brakes(all four discs are only available on cars with powerful 1.9- and 2.1-liter engines, as well as on A-classes with an extended wheelbase). True, there are no complaints about the reliability of the brakes, and besides, we must not forget that all cars have ABS and an anti-skid system. Usually the pads last for about 20 thousand km. (about $70 per set), and you need to remember that most often, along with the third set of pads, you need to install new discs costing $40-53 apiece (drums have a longer life).

The Mercedes A-Class has proven to be a fairly reliable car, although it requires repairs more often than its older brothers. The prices for spare parts for this “baby” are considerable. However, this car has a lot of advantages. These include a really large internal volume (especially in the extended version), good equipment, availability basic configuration ESP. Plus, don’t forget about the image Mercedes cars(and, as you know, you have to pay for showing off).

About his plans to start production of a small compact car Mercedes company announced back in 1993. However, for a long time the Germans did not dare to launch new model into a series, and for several years they prepared the public for it (not everyone agreed that such a serious company as Mercedes-Benz should “stoop” to compacts). But by the end of 1996, the car called A-Class (internal body designation W168) was completely ready, and its production began in 1997.

However, soon after the A-Class reached its first customers, the famous “moose” scandal broke out. It was initiated by the Swedish automobile magazine Teknikens World. Experts from this publication, during test runs of the A-Class, decided to check the car’s handling and perform a maneuver called “rearrangement,” which simulates avoiding a suddenly encountered obstacle, for example, a moose running out onto the road (in Sweden and other northern countries this is not uncommon, so and such an exercise is called there nothing more than the “moose” test). And during this very “moose” Mercedes test The A-class simply flipped over at a speed of 60 km/h! Thanks to the Associated Press news agency, photographs of the overturned car and the injured journalist who was being taken away ambulance, immediately flew around the world. At first, Mercedes representatives assured that the whole thing was a tragic accident, bad tires, and so on. However, they were soon forced to admit their guilt (especially since turning over the A-class without special problems The guys from another German publication succeeded).

After the scandal broke, Mercedes was forced to stop selling the car and make serious modifications to it. The modernized cars received stiffer springs, shock absorbers, front stabilizer etc. New standard tires appeared, and most importantly, all A-classes, without exception, began to be equipped with an ESP stabilization system! At the same time, the base price of the car has not increased (and, by the way, previously ordering ESP for the A-class cost almost $1 thousand).

At first, the A-class was equipped with two 1.4 liter gasoline engines. and 1.6 l. (82 hp and 102 hp), as well as 1.7 liter diesel engines. (60 hp or 90 hp). But in April 1999, the A190 model appeared with a 1.9 liter engine. (125 hp), and in 2001 the diesel power was increased to 75 hp. and 95 hp

In 2001, the A-class underwent a slight modernization, and, most importantly, in March 2001, the premiere of an extension by 170 mm took place. modification of the A-class, which was distinguished by a very large space inside the cabin. In 2002, the most powerful version A210 Evolution with gasoline engine volume 2.1 l. 140 hp

The second generation of the A-Class was introduced at the end of 2004. From the very beginning, the new Ashka received two versions - with a 3- and 5-door body. In addition, in 2005 he was born Mercedes B-class, which is also built on the basis of the A-class, but has increased dimensions and a different design. The new Mercedes A-Class is equipped with gasoline engines volume 1.5 l. (95 hp), 1.7 l. (116 hp), 2.0 l. (136 hp) and even 2.0 l. turbocharged (193 hp). In addition, there are 2.0 liter diesel engines. (82 hp, 109 hp or 140 hp).