Security Deposit:           1000€
Transmission:                Automatic
Seats:                              5
Engine:                            1.8-liter, diesel
0-60mph in:                    –
MSRP:                             $78.000
Horse Power:                 –

the entry-level diesel A-Class, the A180 CDI, has been replaced by the Mercedes A180 CDI ECO – but while emissions are lower, performance remains unchanged.

Like the standard SE model, the ECO gets a body-coloured two-bar grille and a smooth rear bumper with a hidden exhaust, while silver 10-spoke 16-inch alloys replace the standard car’s diamond-cut five-spokes.

However, the exterior design does compromise interior space. Small back doors make access tricky, and the dark cabin doesn’t get as much light as the Volkswagen Golf Bluemotion’s, so overall it feels more claustrophobic, especially in the back.

Still, the layout will be familiar to any Mercedes owner, as it features the same buttons, switches and single stalk control for the wipers, lights and indicators that you’ll find across the rest of the range. It seems solidly built and works precisely, but the VW has a higher-quality feel, with plastics that are softer to the touch, and better-damped controls.