Mercedes-Benz A-Class
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a subcompact executive car produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz. It’s one of the entry-level models in the Mercedes-Benz lineup and has undergone several transformations since its inception. The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a good car for people who are looking for a stylish, comfortable, and technologically advanced subcompact car. It is also a good choice for people who want a car with a premium badge.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Overview
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a subcompact car produced by the German automobile manufacturer Mercedes-Benz as the brand’s entry-level vehicle. The first generation (internally coded W168) was introduced in 1997, the second generation (W169) in late 2004 and the third generation (W176) in 2012. The fourth generation model (W177), which was launched in 2018, marked the first time the A-Class was offered in the United States and Canada. This fourth generation A-Class is also the first to be offered both as a hatchback (W177) and sedan (V177).
The A-Class is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 188 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. It is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The A-Class is known for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and advanced technology.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sales Figures
The A-Class has been pivotal for Mercedes-Benz to attract younger buyers into the brand, offering them a luxury car experience in a smaller and more affordable package. While it competes in the luxury compact segment with rivals like the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3, its combination of design, technology, and branding has made it a popular choice among urban dwellers and younger consumers.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class U.S Sales Data & Charts
US Monthly Sales
US Annual Sales
| Year | Sales Units |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 15,944 |
| 2020 | 15,333 |
| 2021 | 8,108 |
| 2022 | 5,831 |
| 2023 | 163 |
| 2024 | 3 |
US Annual Growth
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Canada Sales Data & Charts
Canada Annual Sales
| Year | Sales Units |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 25 |
| 2019 | 3,632 |
| 2020 | 2,353 |
| 2021 | 1,722 |
Canada Annual Growth
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Europe Sales Data & Charts
Europe Annual Sales
| Year | Sales Units |
|---|---|
| 1997 | 6,184 |
| 1998 | 118,058 |
| 1999 | 177,275 |
| 2000 | 168,897 |
| 2001 | 161,962 |
| 2002 | 149,327 |
| 2003 | 130,051 |
| 2004 | 126,294 |
| 2005 | 173,548 |
| 2006 | 148,001 |
| 2007 | 136,349 |
| 2008 | 125,671 |
| 2009 | 109,568 |
| 2010 | 106,983 |
| 2011 | 88,025 |
| 2012 | 70,108 |
| 2013 | 131,258 |
| 2014 | 121,231 |
| 2015 | 119,475 |
| 2016 | 141,800 |
| 2017 | 143,550 |
| 2018 | 153,882 |
| 2019 | 198,926 |
| 2020 | 158,955 |
| 2021 | 118,439 |
| 2022 | 90,703 |
Europe Annual Growth
Mercedes-Benz A-Class L China Sales Data & Charts
China Annual Sales
| Year | Sales Units |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 3,055 |
| 2019 | 68,815 |
| 2020 | 68,063 |
| 2021 | 58,880 |
| 2022 | 50,486 |
China Annual Growth
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Generations
First Generation (W168; 1997-2004)
Introduced in 1997, the first-generation A-Class was quite revolutionary in its design, being very tall and short, which was unusual for its segment. The first generation A-Class was a minivan-like hatchback that was criticized for its poor handling and rollover safety. It was discontinued in 2004.  It initially garnered attention due to an infamous “elk test” failure but was quickly modified by Mercedes to address these concerns. This generation featured a sandwich floor construction, which allowed for the engine to slide underneath the passenger compartment in the event of a head-on collision.
Second Generation (W169; 2004-2012)
The second generation A-Class was a more conventional hatchback that addressed the handling and safety issues of the first generation. It was also available as a sedan in some markets. This model was larger than its predecessor and retained the sandwich floor. It was available in both three-door and five-door versions. Over its lifespan, it was offered with various gasoline and diesel engines, as well as a range of manual and automatic transmissions.
Third Generation (W176; 2012-2018)
The third generation A-Class was a major redesign that brought the A-Class more in line with the rest of the Mercedes-Benz lineup. It was available as a hatchback and sedan, and was also offered in a high-performance AMG variant. With the third generation, the A-Class underwent a significant design overhaul, moving from a mini MPV design to a sportier hatchback look. This version aimed to attract a younger demographic, with more aggressive styling and improved driving dynamics. Mercedes-Benz also introduced more advanced technology features and high-performance AMG variants (like the A45 AMG) during this generation.
Fourth Generation (W177; 2018-Present)
The fourth generation A-Class is the current model and is the first to be offered in the United States and Canada. It is available as a hatchback and sedan, and is also offered in a high-performance AMG variant. The fourth generation continues the sporty hatchback design, though it’s more refined and mature. Offered as both a hatchback and sedan in some markets, this generation comes with even more advanced technology features, including the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system. Various engine options are available, including efficient diesels, gasoline engines, and high-performance AMG versions. There’s also a plug-in hybrid variant. The interior quality and design saw significant improvements, with a more premium feel, dual-screen setup for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, and touch-sensitive controls.
