Mercedes-Benz has finally launched the new A-Class in South Africa, having first unveiled it to the public in October 2022.
The A-Class is available in both hatchback and sedan guise, as well as AMG variants, for a total of nine units, with the most affordable model – the A200 Progressive hatch – clocking in at R794,509.
This puts it in the same price class as BMW and its 1 Series hatchback, where the 128ti retails for R789,260.
If you’re in the market for a premium German hatchback, it’s worth taking the time to see how these two cars stack up in terms of features and performance.
Performance
The Mercedes is powered by a 1.3-litre, turbocharged petrol engine that generates 130kW and 270Nm. This allows it to reach a top speed of 225km/h, and accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.2 seconds.
It also has an average fuel consumption of 5.6l/100km, thanks to the addition of 48V mild-hybrid technology as well as a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic gearbox sending power to the front wheels.
The BMW, in comparison, runs on a 2.0-litre, turbo-petrol plant with a noticeably higher 180kW and 380Nm on offer.
The larger output means the 1 Series can sprint to 100km/h in a faster 6.3 seconds while also achieving a higher top speed of 243km/h.
It then uses an eight-speed automatic transmission to achieve a combined fuel usage of 6.8l/100km, while also turning the front wheels only.
Features
Both the A200 and 128ti are equipped with adaptive LED headlights, daytime running lights, rain-sensing wipers, a leather multifunction steering wheel with paddle shifters, artificial leather upholstery, hill assist, cruise control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a digital driver’s display, and a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Items unique to the Mercedes, however, include 17-inch alloy wheels, Comfort seats with four-way lumbar support, automatic climate control, a reverse camera, push-button start, Active Parking Assist, front and rear parking sensors, and a 10.25-inch MBUX media display.
The BMW, in contrast, offers 18-inch alloy rims, manual air conditioning, ambient lighting, Sports seats, and an 8.8-inch central display.
Each of the German cars is optionally available with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a panoramic sunroof, too.
Pricing
The new Mercedes-Benz A200 Progressive has a South African starting price of R794,509.
The BMW 128ti is slightly more affordable at a local starting price of R789,260.
Both cars are sold with a 2-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100,000km maintenance plan.
BMW 1 Series
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Keyword: New Mercedes-Benz A200 vs BMW 128ti – Which is the better buy