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Mercedes-Benz A-Class Hatchback (1998-2004) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3 out of 53.0

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 34 - 62 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Good on petrol, reasonable to insure and re-sale values are strong despite the fleets of former hire cars on the market. Servicing can be pricey.

A-Class performs well on the eco front. With an average of 161 g/km CO2 across the model line-up, its emissions are relatively low for a small family hatchback. However, it’s worth noting that the line up has a high number of diesel models, bringing the average down and giving buyers more choices of low-emission versions. Diesels typically produce less CO2 than petrol engines with similar power outputs.

The range is also fairly economical, averaging 44 mpg.

Check the comments on Parkers website owners reviews. Plenty of problems, nothing consistent, but Mercedes-Benz must be very concerned.