2020 Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Most Mercedes-Benzes give their owners industry-leading comfort and technology. The cost of that experience is an expensive base price with expensive options and below-average reliability. The brand produces a wide variety of vehicles for the U.S., including coupes, station wagons, sedans, convertibles, and even two-seat sports cars. Its two- and three-row SUVs that we’ve tested have powerful engines and interiors that are roomy and quiet. Generally, Mercedes-Benz fit and finish, inside and out, is exceptional and helps justify prices. Mercedes-Benz’s EVs range from compact to large three-row SUVs. Across the lineup, controls for the complex climate and infotainment systems aren’t as intuitive as we find in other luxury vehicles. Like most European luxury brands, used Mercedes-Benzes can have expensive out-of-warranty repairs, although Consumer Reports has found used models with above-average reliability.

The A-Class compact sedan is Mercedes’s most affordable entry. It comes with either front- or all-wheel drive and is powered by a 188-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that’s mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This combo is noticeably hesitant off the line, but once underway it delivers good power for most situations. Handling is quite nimble but the ride is overly stiff. While the front seats are comfortable, adults won’t want to sit in the tight rear seat for long. Fit and finish throughout the cabin is very good, but Mercedes’ latest infotainment system is distracting to use, and it’s too easy to accidentally brush the small, touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection are standard.