Mercedes A-Class AMG Sport

Bringing a bit of AMG spark to the Mercedes A-Class, the AMG Sport trim sets itself apart from the lower trim levels with a muscular bodykit and sports suspension. Larger AMG alloy wheels also make it instantly recongisable compared to the entry-level SE or mid-range Sport versions.

Rain-sensing windscreen wipers, air-conditioning, cruise control and electric windows all round are standard, too. However, a relatively high purchase price of around £25,000 may put some people. Buyers of the A-Class AMG Sport will most likely be attracted to the car's Mercedes brand image, well built interior and stylish looks.

You can choose from a large range of engines, including a 1.5-litre diesel capable of up to 76mpg. That's more economical than any engine fitted to the comparable BMW 1 Series M Sport or Audi A3 S line.

The more powerful model is less impressive – this 2.1-litre diesel with an automatic gearbox sprints from 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds, but falls around two seconds short of beating the fastest BMW 1 Series M Sport.

Good points

Sometimes, sports bodykits do very little to enhance a car's styling, but the AMG-influenced additions to the A-Class AMG Sport build on what's already a good-looking car.Buyers have loads of choice when it comes to engines, so there should be something for everyone. The most economical engine outshines anything in the car's Audi A3 S Line or BMW 1 Series M Sport rivals, while the quickest option should be fast enough for most drivers.

Bad points

Although this isn't unheard of among German brands, the A-Class AMG Sport doesn't offer particularly stellar value for money. Adding any optional extras quickly racks up the price and the Audi A3 S Line has more equipment as standard.Thanks to the sports suspension on the AMG Sport, the ride can be crippling. It may be beneficial for hard cornering but any significant bump or dip will upset the ride and annoy any passengers inside.

What you get

• Alloy wheels
• Folding rear seats
• Electric folding wing mirrors
• Alarm
• Tyre pressure sensors
• Passenger & Driver airbag
• Front side airbags
• Curtain airbags
• Manual air conditioning
• Height adjustable driver's seat
• Front electric windows
• Single CD player
• AUX stereo input
• Cruise control
• Stop/Start
• Automatic wipers
• Sports suspension
• Sports seats
• Rear electric windows
• Bluetooth

Recommended optional extras

• COMAND Online System

Our choice

For outright economy, the A180 CDI with the 1.5-litre diesel engine should suit, as it manages 76mpg. An 11-second 0-62mph time won't set anyone's hair on fire, but the A-Class is much better suited to relaxed urban driving anyway.