2013 Mercedes A 180 CDI review, test drive

For a start, forget the ‘180’ badge; this engine actually displaces 2143cc and is essentially a version of the same OM651 motor we’ve seen under the hoods of the C-class, E-class and M-class, in 220 CDI and 250 CDI forms. It’s been modified for front-wheel drive and transverse mounting under the hood of the  A-class (and indeed the B-class), and detuned to produce 107bhp and 25.5kgm of torque.

Twist the key and the engine thrums to life, and at idle, it’s all but silent with only minor vibrations. Thanks mostly to the big engine, the diesel A-class weighs a chunky 1505kg – that’s a full 110kg more than the petrol. As a result, the 0-100kph dash takes a relaxed yet brisk 11.29sec. However, the readily available torque from the high-displacement engine sort of makes up for it. Power delivery is pretty linear and you can barely feel the turbo kicking in. There’s a gentle surge at around 1500rpm, followed by a strong thrust till about 4000rpm. Things become a bit vocal near the redline though, so it’s best to work with the motor in its meaty midrange.