Currently reading: Mercedes A-Class named Used Car Hero at 2020 Autocar Awards

Autocar readers voted Mercedes' dependable hatchback the best second-hand buy of the last ten years

Usually, it takes a long, storied history for any used car to claim this crown. This year, we asked you to help us choose the best used car from the past decade to keep things more recent, and the truth of the matter is that there is an awful lot of love for Mercedes-Benz’s smallest and most affordable model.

The A-Class is fashionably compact and accessible for the simple reason that it is around in fairly considerable numbers. It is the PCP car of choice for so many company and private drivers, so the boom time to buy the recently retired ones is always right now. But which one?

With the Mk3, the model that marked the A-Class’s switch from mini-MPV to bona fide family hatchback and our winner here, the high-spec models are infinitely adjustable when it comes to suspension and gearbox. It’s even possible to go down the AMG rabbit hole, when a potent 2.0-litre petrol will do things a family hatch could only dream of just a few years ago.

4 Mercedes a class rear

Many buyers, though, just want an A180d, which is going to deliver fairly awesome fuel economy. Then again, the option of 4Matic all-wheel drive demonstrates the sheer breadth of models on offer. There’s an A-Class for everyone.

The later, nearly new, fourth-generation model has a sensational high-tech dashboard and is still under manufacturer warranty, in a further example of the A-Class’s decade-long appeal.

A used Mercedes-Benz A-Class: stylish, practical and affordable. Buy now.

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This new version is the most luxurious A-Class yet, but has Mercedes made it a class leader?

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Mile after Mile 8 July 2020

We bought a year old A180d

Interesting one for me. I dont really like our A180d. Really wished we hadnt been encouraged into the 1.5 diesel. Its quite uncomfortable particularly in the back due to the cheaper suspension and as a driving proposition rough and noisy when you chose any "sporty" setting and whiny and unpleasant on any gradient in any setting that isnt "sport". Nothing like as nice to drive as even my Mark 2 Focus. However my partner and I made the choice to buy Mercedes due to the badge and our original ML320 always made us feel "special", there is something about a Mercedes or other prestige brand that makes you a happier owner. The car however has a lot to answer for in my humble opinion and is generally a disappointment to me.

xxxx 8 July 2020

Affordable

There's a reason for that, never thought this version of the A-Class would ever win an award of any sort 

GODFATHER 7 July 2020

This car makes Renault proud

This car makes Renault proud of their technology considering its underpinning and some engines. I’d rather buy a more genuine german car like a Golf rather then the golf based A3 and now mini based 1-series.