The 2022 Mercedes-benz A-class stands as a testament to the fact that entry-level luxury doesn’t necessitate compromise. Often, affordable models within luxury brands can feel like diluted versions of their more prestigious counterparts. However, the A-Class defies this notion, delivering a comprehensive Mercedes-Benz experience in a more compact and accessible package. This small luxury sedan doesn’t just carry the Mercedes star; it embodies the brand’s commitment to comfort, performance, sophisticated technology, and premium quality, all within a city-friendly size. For those seeking an initial foray into luxury car ownership without sacrificing core features, the 2022 A-Class presents a compelling and highly-rated option.
The Allure of the 2022 A-Class: Pros and Cons
Like any vehicle, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class has its strengths and minor drawbacks. Understanding these can help potential buyers make informed decisions.
Advantages of the 2022 A-Class:
- Exceptional Ride Quality: The A-Class masterfully balances comfort and dynamic performance, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride in various driving conditions.
- Luxurious and Modern Interior: The cabin boasts a classy design, high-quality materials, and an overall premium feel that’s synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz marque.
- Cutting-Edge Infotainment System: Featuring one of the most advanced and user-friendly infotainment systems available today, the A-Class excels in technological integration.
Considerations for the 2022 A-Class:
- Limited Rear Legroom: Rear passenger space, particularly legroom, can be somewhat restricted, which might be a concern for taller passengers or families frequently using the back seats.
- Sensitive Safety Systems: While advanced safety features are a plus, some of the A-Class’s driver aids can occasionally be overly sensitive, leading to potential false alerts.
What’s New for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class?
The 2022 model year sees a streamlined A-Class lineup. Notably, the sporty AMG A 35 variant has been discontinued. This adjustment marks a shift in the A-Class offerings, streamlining it to the A 220 model. It’s important to note that this generation of the A-Class, introduced in 2019, is nearing the end of its run in the U.S. market, with Mercedes-Benz not planning to continue the A 220 for the 2023 model year. However, alternatives like the CLA-Class sedan and GLA SUV will remain in the Mercedes-Benz compact vehicle portfolio.
Despite these changes, the 2022 A-Class A 220 remains a strong contender in the entry-level luxury sedan segment. It faces competition from vehicles like the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, Audi A3, and Cadillac CT4, each offering its own blend of features and appeal. For a comprehensive evaluation, resources like the Edmunds Expert Rating provide in-depth analysis and comparisons.
Living with the 2022 A-Class: Real-World Insights
While brief test drives offer initial impressions, long-term experiences truly reveal a vehicle’s character. Edmunds conducted an extensive long-term test of a 2019 A 220, accumulating nearly 20,000 miles and detailed feedback from various drivers. This A-Class long-term test delves into aspects such as real-world fuel economy, maintenance needs, comfort levels, technological usability, and overall performance in everyday driving scenarios. Such long-term evaluations offer valuable insights for prospective owners looking beyond the showroom appeal.
Edmunds Expert Rating: A High Score for the 2022 A-Class
The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team rigorously evaluates a wide range of vehicles weekly, combining track testing with real-world driving assessments. This comprehensive process results in Edmunds Expert Ratings, based on over 30 criteria covering all facets of the automotive experience.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class earned an impressive 8.4 out of 10 rating from Edmunds, categorized as Great.
This high score reflects the A-Class’s success in delivering a genuine Mercedes-Benz experience in a smaller form. It’s not merely an “entry-level” Mercedes in a compromising way; it’s a smaller Mercedes that retains the brand’s core values of quality, luxury, and driving pleasure. Edmunds explicitly states, “Thanks to the impressive combination of excellent driving manners, stellar build quality and a futuristic interior, the 2022 A-Class isn’t a less expensive Mercedes. It’s simply a smaller one.” This endorsement underscores the A-Class’s position as a top choice in its class.
Performance Analysis of the 2022 A-Class
Edmunds Performance Score: 8.5/10
The 2022 A-Class, specifically the A 220 model tested by Edmunds, showcases surprisingly engaging driving dynamics. Its acceleration is smooth and responsive from a standstill, exhibiting minimal turbo lag. While not as overtly quick as the Audi A3, the A-Class provides ample power for daily driving and confident highway merging. Edmunds testing recorded a 0-60 mph time of 6.4 seconds. The dual-clutch transmission is noted as being well-executed, although it can exhibit occasional clunkiness in stop-and-go traffic. Braking performance is praised for its intuitive pedal feel, allowing for smooth and assured stops from various speeds.
Handling is another strong point, particularly with the optional summer tires, providing substantial grip. The available 4Matic all-wheel-drive system further enhances traction, especially when accelerating out of corners. Overall, the A-Class demonstrates excellent composure and balanced handling characteristics.
Comfort Features of the 2022 A-Class
Edmunds Comfort Score: 8.5/10
Mercedes-Benz aimed to ensure that the compact luxury segment doesn’t compromise on comfort, and the 2022 A-Class delivers on this promise. The suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride quality at both city and highway speeds. The cabin of the A 220 is remarkably quiet, minimizing road and wind noise intrusion. Seats are ergonomically designed, accommodating various body types, although taller drivers might desire more upper-back support. The turbine-style air vents contribute to an effective and stylish climate control system.
Interior Design and Space of the 2022 A-Class
Edmunds Interior Score: 8.5/10
The interior of the 2022 A-Class defies its compact exterior dimensions. Front occupants enjoy generous headroom, shoulder room, and elbow room, creating an airy and spacious feel. While rear headroom remains adequate, rear legroom is acknowledged as being somewhat limited. However, the sculpted front seatbacks help maximize knee room for rear passengers. Outward visibility is rated as acceptable, though the thick rear roof pillars and smaller rearview mirrors slightly restrict the rearward view.
The A 220’s interior is well-equipped with luxury and technology features that are generally user-friendly. The control layout is commendably redundant, offering various input methods to suit driver preferences.
Technology in the 2022 A-Class
Edmunds Technology Score: 8/10
The 2022 A-Class is positioned as a technology leader in its segment, and rightfully so. The high-resolution center display is responsive to touch, button inputs, and the touchpad controller. The optional Burmester audio system is highlighted as being exceptional for its price class. The voice recognition system is advanced, understanding natural language and controlling various vehicle functions. However, its sensitivity can lead to inadvertent activations. Standard tech features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with multiple USB-C ports.
The primary tech-related drawback noted is the occasional overzealousness of some electronic driver aids, which, despite their sophistication, can sometimes generate false alarms, particularly with speed limit information.
Storage and Practicality of the 2022 A-Class
Edmunds Storage Score: 8/10
Despite its compact size, the 2022 A 220 offers surprising practicality. The trunk, while somewhat narrow, is enhanced by split-folding rear seats that increase cargo-carrying versatility. Ample interior storage solutions help keep the cabin clutter-free. Front occupants benefit from sizable door pockets and a deep center console bin, while rear passengers have door pocket storage.
While the A-Class can handle family duties to some extent, it’s not ideally suited for extensive child-seat use due to limited rear space when using rear-facing child seats. Child safety seat anchors are easily accessible.
Fuel Efficiency of the 2022 A-Class
Edmunds Fuel Economy Score: 8/10
The 2022 A 220 achieves an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 28 mpg, which is considered average for the entry-level luxury sedan category. In Edmunds’ real-world testing on a 115-mile mixed-driving route, an all-wheel-drive A 220 test car slightly exceeded expectations, returning just over 29 mpg.
Value Proposition of the 2022 A-Class
Edmunds Value Score: 8.5/10
The 2022 A 220 is well-equipped in its base configuration. However, as is typical with European luxury brands, adding option packages can significantly increase the vehicle’s price. Despite this potential price escalation, the overall level of luxury, technology, and driving competence offered by the A-Class justifies its price point, providing a strong sense of value.
The standard Mercedes-Benz warranty includes four years or 50,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper and powertrain coverage, aligning with its primary German competitors. Roadside assistance is also provided for the warranty period. Prepaid scheduled maintenance plans are available at a discounted rate.
The Wildcard Factor of the 2022 A-Class
Edmunds Wildcard Score: 8.5/10
The “wildcard” aspect of the 2022 A-Class lies in its ability to encapsulate the essence of the modern Mercedes-Benz experience in a smaller, more accessible package. It’s rich in technology, features, and luxury appointments. It’s also genuinely enjoyable to drive and possesses a distinctly upscale aesthetic. The A-Class effectively elevates the standard for the entry-level luxury sedan class, setting a new benchmark for competitors to strive for.
Edmunds Recommendation: Which 2022 A-Class to Choose?
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class is offered in a single trim level: the A 220. Buyers can choose between standard front-wheel drive or optional 4Matic all-wheel drive. Edmunds recommends opting for the Premium package to enhance the digital cockpit experience with larger instrument panel and infotainment displays. For an enriched suite of driver-assistance features, the Driver Assistance package is also highly recommended to maximize safety and convenience.
2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Models and Features
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class simplifies choices by offering just one trim: the A 220. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 188 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available.
A 220 Standard Features:
- LED Headlights
- 18-inch Wheels
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers
- Heated Side Mirrors
- Keyless Entry and Ignition
- Simulated Leather Upholstery
- Power-Adjustable Front Seats with Memory
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
- Customizable Ambient Cabin Lighting
Standard Technology and Safety Features:
- 7-inch Touchscreen Display
- Touchpad Controller
- Digital Instrument Panel Display
- Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) Infotainment
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Five USB-C Ports
- Driver Attention Warning
- Safe-Exit System
- Blind-Spot Monitor
- Automatic Emergency Braking
Available Options and Packages:
The A 220 offers a range of standalone options and bundled packages to personalize the vehicle:
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Driver Assistance Package:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Keeping System
- Blind-Spot Intervention
-
Parking Assistance Package:
- Surround-View Camera System
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors
- Automated Self-Parking System
-
Premium Package:
- 10.25-inch Infotainment Display
- Larger Digital Instrument Panel Display
- Auto-Dimming Mirrors
- Power-Folding Side Mirrors
-
AMG Line Package:
- Lowered Ride Height
- Sportier Exterior Styling
- 18-inch AMG Wheels
- Sport Front Seats
- Sport Steering Wheel
- Aluminum Paddle Shifters
- Alloy Pedals
-
Standalone Options:
- Sport Front Seats
- Leather Upholstery
- Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
- Heated Steering Wheel
- MBUX Interior Assistant (Gesture Control)
- Adaptive Headlights
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