When you think of Mercedes-Benz, your mind might immediately jump to images of stately S-Class sedans or powerful AMG models dominating the autobahn. The smaller end of their lineup might not be the first to come to mind. Historically, Mercedes has been known for debuting its cutting-edge technology in its flagship models, letting innovations trickle down to the more compact offerings later. So, when we got the chance to test drive the Mercedes-Benz A220, the smallest sedan in their U.S. lineup, equipped with their most diminutive engine, we admit, skepticism was in the air. Even our social media followers chimed in with comments hinting at a less-than-thrilling experience, some jokingly comparing it to a “Mercedes Corolla.” However, after spending time with the A220, we were genuinely surprised and impressed by this “Baby Benz.”
What Exactly is the Mercedes-Benz A220?
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz A220 marks the entry point into the brand’s sedan family in the United States. While the A-Class has been available in other markets for years, it’s a relatively new offering stateside. For those picturing something truly tiny when they hear “smallest Mercedes-Benz sedan,” like a subcompact car, rest assured. The A220 is surprisingly substantial. In fact, its dimensions are nearly identical to the “W202” generation C-Class from the mid-1990s and only marginally larger than the iconic 190E of the 1980s. Unless you regularly need to transport multiple passengers, the Mercedes-Benz A220 offers a remarkably practical and manageable size for everyday driving.
Every Mercedes-Benz A220 sold in the U.S. comes equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerplant delivers a healthy 188 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and a robust 221 lb-ft of torque, available from a low 1,250 rpm. Power is routed through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). While front-wheel drive is standard on the base model, the vast majority of A220s are expected to be sold with Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel drive system for enhanced traction and all-weather capability.
Mercedes Benz A220 front view, showcasing its compact yet stylish sedan design.
Rear perspective of the Mercedes Benz A220, highlighting its modern taillights and sleek profile.
Our Mercedes-Benz A220 test vehicle was specified with a relatively modest option list, a refreshing change from some of the heavily loaded press cars we often evaluate. Finished in classic Night Black paint over black “MB-Tex” heated vinyl upholstery, the key options included the adjustable suspension dampers and the impressive dual 10.25-inch widescreen displays powered by Mercedes’ advanced MBUX infotainment system, complete with augmented reality navigation. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for our test configuration came in at approximately $41,000.
Behind the Wheel: Driving Impressions of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz A220
Before delving into the nuanced driving dynamics of the A220, it’s crucial to highlight the seats. The standard, vinyl-covered seats in our test car, devoid of excessive frills, were surprisingly excellent. They provided ample comfort and support, proving that you don’t need to splurge on multi-contour or ventilated seats to enjoy a pleasant driving experience. Consider allocating those funds to other desirable options instead.
Speaking of optional extras, our Mercedes-Benz A220 was equipped with the “Adaptive Damping” suspension. This system allows the driver to adjust the suspension firmness, becoming sportier in Sport mode and more compliant in Comfort mode. Mercedes-Benz also offers standard “comfort” suspension and a lowered suspension variant, both with fixed dampers, on different A220 configurations. We found the Adaptive Damping suspension to be somewhat lacking in damping control in Comfort mode. Both compression and rebound felt under-controlled, resulting in a somewhat jarring ride over city bumps and imperfections. However, switching to Sport mode dramatically transformed the suspension’s character. In Sport, the A220 exhibited remarkably improved body control, confidently managing uneven road surfaces and maintaining composure through fast highway on-ramps.
The 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission, however, presented a mixed bag. Under gentle acceleration from a standstill, the transmission exhibited noticeable clutch slippage and a somewhat sluggish engagement. We even double-checked to confirm it was indeed starting in first gear (which it was), as there was a perceptible delay in acceleration while the clutches engaged. Aggressive, full-throttle starts were often accompanied by jerky behavior. Shift logic in city driving could also be refined. While paddle shifters are provided for manual gear selection, their responsiveness was disappointing. Engaging the paddles resulted in shifts that were executed with a leisurely pace, far from the snappy gear changes one expects from a dual-clutch gearbox. The transmission seemed to hold the requested gear for an indeterminate time before overriding the driver’s input and upshifting.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine of the Mercedes Benz A220, providing a balance of power and efficiency.
Close-up of the turbocharger in the Mercedes Benz A220 engine bay, highlighting the forced induction system.
The Adaptive Damping system in the Mercedes Benz A220, offering adjustable suspension settings for varied driving conditions.
However, once you escape the confines of city streets, potholes, and stop-and-go traffic, the Mercedes-Benz A220 truly comes into its own. It transforms into a relaxed and capable highway cruiser, feeling remarkably planted and composed even at higher speeds. On winding back roads, the A220 displays surprising agility and competence. The DCT’s transmission control unit seems to awaken in more dynamic driving scenarios, intelligently selecting gears to keep the turbocharged engine operating within its optimal power band. While some driving purists might lament the front-wheel-drive bias of the standard A220, the majority of buyers will likely opt for the 4Matic all-wheel-drive version and be largely unconcerned about torque distribution nuances, especially given that the system can send up to 50% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels when needed. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 7.7 seconds for the A220 4Matic, which feels realistically accurate and subjectively quick enough for everyday driving situations.
In summary, while the Mercedes-Benz A220 might not be the most polished performer in demanding city driving environments, it excels as a comfortable and refined companion for longer journeys on the open road, regardless of whether the route is straight or winding.
The Essence of “Mercedes-ness” in the A220
Our Mercedes-Benz A220 test car featured the brand’s innovative augmented reality navigation system, powered by the MBUX infotainment suite. This advanced technology exemplifies how Mercedes-Benz is now bringing cutting-edge features to its more accessible models, a departure from the historical precedent of debuting such innovations exclusively in the flagship S-Class. Interestingly, MBUX first appeared in the Sprinter van and the A-Class – both excellent vehicles in their own right, but not traditionally considered “flagship” models. The augmented reality navigation utilizes a front-facing camera to overlay real-time video of the road ahead with directional arrows, street signs, and building numbers superimposed directly onto the display. This system provides incredibly intuitive guidance, clearly indicating upcoming turns and exits. It’s a genuinely impressive feature that works seamlessly.
Mercedes Benz A220 MBUX augmented reality navigation in action, projecting directions onto a live camera feed.
Beyond the eye-catching navigation technology, we were consistently impressed by the overall “Mercedes-ness” exuded by this smallest sedan. Everything in the A220, from the materials to the build quality, feels substantial and well-engineered, befitting the Mercedes-Benz name. If we were configuring an A220 for ourselves, we might forgo the adjustable suspension in favor of Mercedes-Benz’s captivating ambient lighting system and the exceptional Burmester surround sound system. Both of these options would further elevate the cabin ambiance and luxury feel of the A220, while keeping the overall MSRP in a similar range to our test vehicle.
Perhaps the most appealing aspect of the Mercedes-Benz A220 was its physical footprint. It evoked memories of the compact sedans from the 1990s that many of us have owned and enjoyed. The A220 is remarkably easy to maneuver in tight spaces, effortless to park, and possesses a certain agility that larger sedans simply cannot replicate. Visibility is excellent, and the low dashboard contributes to an airy and spacious feel. There’s no sense of being enclosed or overwhelmed by the car’s interior.
While it’s possible to equip a Mercedes-Benz A220 with a plethora of optional features, pushing the MSRP well above $52,000, our test car struck a near-perfect balance. It wasn’t overly basic, nor was it burdened with excessive options – it felt just right. Mercedes-Benz has clearly recognized that not all customers desire a large vehicle, and they have successfully engineered a compact sedan that genuinely embodies the premium qualities and refined experience associated with their larger offerings.
Interior detail of the Mercedes Benz A220 showcasing the luxurious materials and design elements.
Close-up of the Mercedes Benz A220 dashboard and infotainment screen, highlighting the modern technology.
Steering wheel and driver controls of the Mercedes Benz A220, emphasizing the ergonomic layout.
Mercedes Benz A220 interior view, showcasing the spaciousness and comfortable seating.
Side profile of the Mercedes Benz A220, demonstrating its elegant and compact sedan proportions.
