The Mercedes-Benz A-Class, a premium compact hatchback, has long been admired for its style and technology. However, earlier models sometimes faced criticism regarding cabin space. Recognizing this, Mercedes-Benz has made significant strides to enhance the A-Class’s practicality, particularly in terms of passenger and trunk space. If you’re considering a Mercedes A-Class and trunk capacity is a key factor, understanding its cargo capabilities is essential. This article delves into the trunk space of the latest Mercedes A-Class, comparing it to rivals and exploring its usability for everyday needs.
Cabin Space and Passenger Comfort
While this article focuses on trunk space, it’s worth noting that passenger comfort is also crucial. Mercedes-Benz aimed to improve cabin spaciousness in the A-Class, addressing previous concerns. The result is a noticeable improvement in shoulder, elbow, and headroom for both front and rear occupants. For families or those regularly carrying passengers, the A-Class comfortably accommodates four average-sized adults.
While technically a five-seater, the central rear seat is best reserved for children or shorter journeys due to the prominent central tunnel that impacts legroom. However, legroom and headroom in the outer rear seats are now genuinely ample for most adults, marking an improvement over previous generations and offering a competitive edge against rivals like the Audi A3.
Image showing the rear passenger space of a Mercedes A-Class, highlighting legroom and overall cabin size for passengers.
Trunk Space and Practicality in Detail
The trunk space in the Mercedes A-Class has grown significantly to 370 liters. While this volume is slightly less than the Audi A3 Sportback, BMW 1 Series, and Volkswagen Golf, all boasting 380 liters, the A-Class compensates with a highly usable trunk design. The squared-off shape of the trunk maximizes practicality, making loading and unloading easier.
Compared to its predecessor, this A-Class offers an extra 29 liters of storage with the rear seats in their upright position. Furthermore, the load aperture is now 20cm wider, a practical improvement that simplifies loading bulky or wide items such as strollers or luggage. The trunk lip is also reasonably low, further aiding ease of access.
For transporting longer items, the rear seats offer a versatile 40:20:40 split and fold almost completely flat, creating a longer, more versatile cargo area. Intrusion from wheel arches is minimized, ensuring a more rectangular and usable space. Practical touches within the trunk include convenient power sockets and hooks for securing shopping bags, enhancing everyday usability.
Image showcasing the Mercedes A-Class trunk with the rear seats folded down, emphasizing the flat load floor and overall cargo capacity for larger items.
Interior Storage Solutions
Beyond the trunk, the Mercedes A-Class provides a range of interior storage solutions designed for everyday convenience. Front door pockets are generously sized, accommodating larger bottles and items. The center console features two reasonably sized cupholders. The compartment located under the front armrest is quite deep, although somewhat narrow, suitable for smaller items. The glovebox offers average storage capacity.
Rear passengers also benefit from storage options, including smaller door pockets, fold-out cupholders in the rear armrest, and twin air vents located behind the front center armrest.
The removal of the physical touch controller for the MBUX infotainment system in newer models has freed up space in the center console, creating a useful tray ideal for storing keys or other small items. However, it’s worth noting that while the cupholders are a good size, taller bottles placed in them may potentially obstruct access to the climate controls.
Parking and Safety Features
While not directly related to trunk space, parking and safety features contribute to the overall practicality and ownership experience of the Mercedes A-Class. All A-Class models come equipped with a standard reversing camera, significantly simplifying maneuvering in tight parking situations.
It’s worth noting that the current A-Class is 14mm wider than the previous generation. Owners upgrading from an older A-Class should ensure the new model comfortably fits in their garage or parking space.
In terms of safety, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2018, demonstrating high levels of safety performance across various crash tests. The A-Class is also equipped with a comprehensive suite of “Intelligent Drive” safety systems, including active emergency brake assist, active lane change assist, adaptive cruise control with active steering assist, active blind spot assist, autonomous emergency braking, and active speed limit assist. These features contribute to a safer and more confident driving experience.
Conclusion
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class trunk space is now genuinely competitive within the premium hatchback segment. The 370-liter capacity, combined with a practical shape and improved access, makes it suitable for a variety of needs, from daily errands to weekend trips. While not leading the class in sheer volume, the A-Class trunk prioritizes usability and thoughtful features. When considering the A-Class, assess your typical cargo requirements. For individuals or small families who prioritize a blend of premium features, stylish design, and practical trunk space, the Mercedes A-Class is a compelling option. Mercedes-Benz has successfully addressed previous criticisms regarding space, making the latest A-Class a more well-rounded and practical choice in the premium hatchback market.
