New diesel engines bolster Mercedes A-Class range

Mercedes has launched two new diesel engines for the recently arrived Mercedes A-Class. Badged the A200d and A220d, prices start at £28,805 and £31,575 respectively.

Both new engines are, according to Mercedes, among the first diesel engines to be offered in the UK that pass the tough new RDE-2 emissions tests.

The A220d – available in both Sport and AMG Line trims – features a 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine that claims a 0-62mph time of 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 137mph. Economy and CO2 emissions figures are 67.3mpg and 110g/km.

The more powerful 220d, which is only available in AMG Line trim, has 187bhp for a 0-62mph time of 7.0 seconds. The extra power has little affect on economy and emissions figures, which are 65.7mpg and 114g/km of CO2 respectively. Both models will be equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard.

Carbuyer's full Mercedes A-Class review

The two new models will most likely prove attractive with company car drivers thanks to their RDE-2 compliant emissions. Currently, company car drivers who choose a diesel are subject to a 4% Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) surcharge unless the car in question meets the RDE-2 certification.

The new 220d and 220d attract BiK ratings of just 23% – significantly less than the 27% rating of the less powerful A180d Sport and AMG Line models. Mercedes calculates that this reduction in emissions will account for a saving of £460 over three years (on a A220d AMG Line model) for a 40% tax payer when compared to the old model.

The 220d Sport model comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and tail lights, comfort suspension, an MBUX multimedia system with a seven-inch cockpit display and a seven-inch touchscreen media display, complete with a hard-disc sat nav setup. Other standard equipment includes keyless go, two-zone air conditioning, Active Lane Assist and Speed Limit assist.

The AMG Line models have more of a sporty style and in addition to the Sport model’s equipment receive 18-inch AMG alloys wheels, AMG bodystyling, upgraded interior trim, a diamond radiator grille and a three-spoke sports steering wheel.

Several option packs are available, too. An Executive line costs £1,395 and adds heated seats and mirrors along with a 10.25-inch media display and Active Park Assist. A £2,395 Premium package brings a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, ambient lighting, keyless locking and a mid-range sound system.

The Premium Plus line (at £3,595) adds the Premium equipment plus electric front memory seats, adaptive LED headlights and a Panoramic glass sunroof. A Driving Assistance package adds a host of safety related items such as blind spot monitoring and active braking for £1,695.

The new A200d and A220d are available to order now, with first deliveries expected in spring 2019.