The 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class stands as a testament to the fact that entry-level luxury doesn’t necessitate compromise. Often, the most accessible models in a luxury brand’s lineup are perceived as diluted versions of their more prestigious siblings. However, the 2022 Benz A-Class shatters this notion, delivering a compact luxury sedan that is every bit a Mercedes-Benz. It masterfully blends comfort, engaging performance, and cutting-edge technology within a refined and smaller package. For discerning buyers in the US market seeking an entry into the world of Mercedes-Benz, the 2022 Benz A-Class presents a compelling option that minimizes the typical sacrifices associated with its price point. This review delves into every facet of the 2022 Benz A-Class, providing you with the expert insights you need to make an informed decision.
Driving Experience and Performance of the 2022 A-Class
How does the 2022 Benz A-Class perform on the road? In our comprehensive testing of the A 220 model, we discovered a driving experience that is surprisingly dynamic and enjoyable. The A 220 exhibits smooth and responsive acceleration from a standstill, exhibiting minimal turbo lag. While it may not possess the outright speed of competitors like the Audi A3, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class offers ample power for daily driving and spirited maneuvers. In Edmunds’ track testing, the 2022 Benz A-Class achieved a 0-60 mph sprint in a brisk 6.4 seconds. The dual-clutch transmission, while being among the better examples of its kind, can occasionally exhibit slight hesitation in stop-and-go traffic. The brake pedal feel is exceptionally intuitive, allowing for smooth and confident stops from any speed.
Handling is another strong suit of the 2022 Benz A-Class. The car exhibits impressive grip, particularly when equipped with the optional summer tires. The available all-wheel-drive system further enhances traction, enabling confident power delivery when exiting corners. Overall, the 2022 Benz A-Class maintains excellent composure in various driving situations, providing a balanced and engaging driving experience.
Interior Comfort and Cabin Refinement in the 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Mercedes-Benz aimed to demonstrate that compact luxury cars can provide the same level of comfort as their larger and more expensive counterparts, and the 2022 Benz A-Class delivers admirably on this promise. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections at both high and low speeds, resulting in a smooth and comfortable ride. The cabin of the A 220 is remarkably quiet, minimizing road and wind noise intrusion, further enhancing the sense of luxury and refinement.
The seats in the 2022 Benz A-Class are thoughtfully contoured, providing excellent support and accommodating a wide range of body types. While taller drivers might desire slightly more upper-back support, the seats are generally comfortable for long journeys. The climate control system provides ample airflow through stylish turbine-style vents, ensuring a pleasant cabin environment.
2022 A-Class Interior Design, Space, and Practicality
Stepping inside the 2022 Benz A-Class reveals an interior that belies its compact exterior dimensions. The driver and front passenger enjoy generous headroom, shoulder room, and elbow room, creating an airy and spacious feel. While rear-seat headroom remains adequate, legroom is somewhat limited, which is typical for the subcompact luxury sedan class. However, the sculpted front seatbacks help to maximize knee room for rear passengers.
Outward visibility in the 2022 Benz A-Class is acceptable, though the thick rear roof pillars and relatively small rearview mirrors do slightly restrict the rearward view. Mercedes-Benz has equipped the A 220 with a wealth of luxury and technology features that are surprisingly user-friendly. The controls are well-organized and intuitive, offering multiple ways to operate the various systems, ensuring that most drivers will find a comfortable and convenient interface.
Technology and Infotainment Features of the 2022 Benz A-Class
The 2022 Benz A-Class is a leader in its class when it comes to technology, boasting one of the most advanced and user-friendly infotainment systems available. The high-resolution center display responds quickly to touch inputs, as well as commands from the physical buttons and touchpad controller. The optional Burmester premium audio system is exceptional for a vehicle in this price range, delivering rich and immersive sound quality.
The voice recognition system in the 2022 Benz A-Class is sophisticated and capable of understanding natural speech commands, allowing for hands-free control of various vehicle functions. While highly effective, it can occasionally be inadvertently activated. Standard smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensures seamless connectivity. The inclusion of multiple USB-C ports reflects the modern tech-focused approach of the 2022 Benz A-Class.
However, the otherwise impressive technological suite is slightly marred by some overly sensitive electronic driver aids. While generally advanced and helpful, these systems can occasionally be intrusive, generating false alarms, particularly with inaccurate speed limit information. This may lead some drivers to disable these features, diminishing their intended safety benefits.
Storage Solutions and Cargo Capacity of the 2022 A-Class
Despite its compact size, the 2022 Benz A-Class offers surprising practicality and storage capacity for a luxury sedan in its segment. The trunk, while somewhat narrow, provides usable space, and the split-folding rear seats enhance versatility, allowing for the transport of longer items when needed.
Interior storage within the 2022 Benz A-Class is well-considered, helping to keep clutter to a minimum. The door pockets and a reasonably deep center console bin provide ample storage for front occupants, while rear passengers have access to door pockets for smaller items. While the 2022 Benz A-Class can accommodate child seats, its subcompact dimensions make it less ideal for families frequently transporting children, especially with rear-facing car seats, which can be a tight fit. The child safety seat anchors are easily accessible, however.
Fuel Efficiency and MPG of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class
The 2022 Benz A-Class A 220 achieves an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 28 mpg, which is competitive for the entry-level luxury sedan class. In our real-world testing, conducted on a 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation route, our all-wheel-drive 2022 Benz A-Class test vehicle returned slightly better than expected, achieving just over 29 mpg. This real-world fuel economy reinforces the A 220 as a reasonably efficient option in its segment.
Value Proposition and Ownership Costs of the 2022 A-Class
The 2022 Benz A-Class A 220 offers a strong value proposition, especially considering its comprehensive standard equipment list. As is typical with European luxury vehicles, the addition of optional packages can significantly increase the vehicle’s price. However, the level of luxury, technology, and overall competence offered by the 2022 Benz A-Class justifies its price point, making it feel like a worthwhile investment.
Mercedes-Benz provides a standard warranty of four years or 50,000 miles for both bumper-to-bumper and powertrain coverage, aligning with the industry norm among its primary German competitors. Roadside assistance is also provided for the duration of the warranty period. Mercedes-Benz also offers the option to prepay for scheduled maintenance services, potentially providing cost savings over the long term.
The Edmunds Verdict: Why the 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a Top Pick
The 2022 Benz A-Class excels in delivering the quintessential modern Mercedes-Benz experience in a more compact form. It is replete with technology, premium features, and luxurious appointments. Furthermore, it offers an enjoyable driving experience and possesses a distinctly upscale aesthetic. The 2022 Benz A-Class effectively raises the benchmark for the entry-level luxury sedan segment, proving that luxury and sophistication are attainable even in a smaller package.
Which 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Model is Right for You?
For the 2022 Benz A-Class, the lineup is streamlined to a single trim level: the A 220. Buyers have the choice between the standard front-wheel-drive configuration and the available 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. To maximize the technological experience, we recommend opting for the Premium package, which upgrades to larger digital instrument panel and touchscreen displays. For enhanced safety and driver assistance features, the Driver Assistance package is a worthwhile addition, providing a comprehensive suite of advanced driver aids.
2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Model Breakdown: A 220
The 2022 Benz A-Class simplifies choices by offering just one trim level, the A 220. Powering the A 220 is a responsive turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 188 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
A 220 Standard Features:
The 2022 Benz A 220 comes generously equipped with a range of standard features, including:
- LED headlights for enhanced visibility
- 18-inch wheels for a stylish stance
- Panoramic sunroof to brighten the cabin
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers for convenience
- Heated side mirrors for all-weather usability
- Keyless entry and ignition for ease of access
- Simulated leather upholstery for a premium feel
- Power-adjustable front seats with memory function for personalized comfort
- Dual-zone climate control for customized cabin temperature
- Customizable ambient cabin lighting to set the mood
Standard Technology and Safety Features:
The 2022 Benz A 220 also includes a comprehensive suite of standard technology and safety features:
- 7-inch touchscreen display with crisp graphics
- Touchpad controller for intuitive interface navigation
- Digital instrument panel display for vital vehicle information
- Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment interface with advanced functionality
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration
- Five USB-C ports for device charging and connectivity
- Driver attention warning to combat driver fatigue
- Safe-exit system for enhanced passenger safety
- Blind-spot monitor to mitigate lane-change risks
- Automatic emergency braking for collision mitigation
Available Options and Packages:
The 2022 Benz A 220 offers a wide array of standalone options and bundled packages to further customize your vehicle:
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Driver Assistance package:
- Adaptive cruise control for effortless highway driving
- Lane keeping assist to prevent unintentional lane departures
- Lane keeping system for lane centering assistance
- Blind-spot intervention for proactive lane-change safety
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Parking Assistance package:
- Surround-view camera system for enhanced maneuverability in tight spaces
- Front and rear parking sensors for parking guidance
- Automated self-parking system for hands-free parking
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Premium package:
- 10.25-inch infotainment display for an immersive experience
- Larger digital instrument panel display for enhanced visuals
- Auto-dimming rearview and side mirrors for reduced glare
- Power-folding side mirrors for added convenience
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AMG Line package:
- Lowered ride height for a sportier profile
- Sportier exterior styling elements for a dynamic appearance
- 18-inch AMG wheels for a performance-inspired look
- Front sport seats for enhanced lateral support
- Sport steering wheel for improved driver engagement
- Aluminum paddle shifters for manual gear control
- Alloy pedals for a sporty touch
Stand-alone Options:
Individual options are also available for the 2022 Benz A 220:
- Sport front seats for a more sculpted and supportive design
- Leather upholstery for a premium cabin ambiance
- Heated and ventilated front seats for year-round comfort
- Heated steering wheel for cold-weather driving
- MBUX Interior Assistant for gesture-based control
- Adaptive headlights for optimized nighttime illumination
By focusing on these key aspects of the 2022 Benz A-Class, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of its strengths, weaknesses, and overall appeal to US buyers in the market for a luxury subcompact sedan.
