When rumours of a new A-Class arose, I was less than intrigued. The older model A-Class was a badly designed asymmetrical loaf-of-bread-on-wheels; seeming only to appeal to "yummy mummies" and hairdressers.

The first generation A-Class was introduced in 1997 and was quite unusual for a Mercedes-Benz. In 2004 the second generation was released and was a huge step up from its predecessor. Yet both of these generations had a less than desirable effect on me and have always been the one Merc I just couldn't fancy.

But, in 2011, a futuristic and eye-catching A-Class concept car was revealed and was for most the showstopper at the 2011 Johannesburg International Motor Show. While most were of the opinion that the concept would never go into production, others were certain that this was an accurate depiction of what today’s production A-Class has become.

The launch of the third generation in 2013 reflects the current design strategy of Mercedes-Benz. Designed by Mark Fetherston – who was also responsible for the SLS AMG – the design is completely new and dynamic. Focused on a younger market (and in direct competition with the Audi A3, BMW 1-Series, and even the Volvo V40), I have no doubt that the new A-Class will lead the way in the compact premium hatch segment.

The new A-Class has petrol engines ranging from the 90 kW A180 to the 155 kW A250 Sport (which is the only model with the new "matrix" grill, as Mark Fetherston referred to it) and diesel variants from the 80 kW A180 CDi to the 125 kW A220 CDi. Now, if you have a lead foot like I do, you would probably feel the same need to rob a bank in order to fork out the extra cash to buy one of the more powerful engines.

With the entry-level A180 petrol costing only R275 000, and the range-topping A250 Sport going for R395 000, Mercedes have definitely set the bar on affordability of a premium brand. While not considered cheap, it is great value for money and has the heritage of the Mercedes-Benz name. Which, if you are like me, means that you’d better start saving or do less shopping.

And now for the very long, but necessary, list of specs… All engine variants is standard equipped with features like central locking, the seat comfort package with adjustable seats, adjustable steering column, electric mirrors, electric parking brake, air conditioning, multifunction steering wheel, aux-in socket, Bluetooth and USB. Safety features include, amongst others, airbags for driver and front passenger, ABS, Attention Assist to prevent the driver from dozing off behind the wheel, and Collision Prevention Assist – including Adaptive Brake Assist. Over and above all these features, the A-Class offers countless customisation features to make your A-Class truly unique and truly your own.

I spent most of my time in the A180 and A180 CDi and would personally opt for the CDi model with a manual gearbox, but my overall choice after driving most of the engine variants would be the A220 CDi; which offers the best balance between sport and comfort. While the A250 Sport is an impeccable little creature it has a very firm ride for a sport model. With the condition of South-African roads, it is not a very comfortable drive and I could feel every ounce of fat wobble when driving on anything less than a smooth surface.

With all the technical "stuff" out of the way, I can gladly say that Mercedes-Benz have really outdone themselves this time. On the outside you see a sporty, premium hatchback and, once inside, you are isolated from the rest of the world – almost as if you are getting into an S-Class. The car is extremely practical, unlike its square-shaped older sibling, and cabin noise is almost non-existent.

If you have never been a fan of Mercedes-Benz, go test-drive the new A-Class and experience what they are calling "A-Revolution". To fuel our desires even more, Mercedes-Benz have been working on an A45 AMG model, reportedly set for a September 2013 release in South Africa.

For more info go to: http://www.mercedes-benz.co.za or visit your nearest Mercedes-Benz dealership.

© 2013 Stiaan Jordaan