8 2018 Mercedes A Class

Replacing a model as important to the fleet sector as the A-Class was a big step for Mercedes-Benz, but the new model has, so far, exceeded expectations.

With driver-assistance technology borrowed from the flagship S-Class luxury saloon, the new A-Class is a small car with big car personality.

Read the Mercedes-Benz A-Class first drive review 

It’s refined and efficient, but still great to drive.

The new model introduced a more upmarket interior, while retaining the sporty hatchback bodystyle that made the previous A-Class such a success.

The most frugal A 180 d can return excellent real-world fuel economy.

Judges were also impressed by the new A 220 d, which is one of the first new cars to achieve RDE2 compliance – removing the 4% benefit-in-kind surcharge and making it considerably cheaper for drivers.

An all-new infotainment system features “Hey Mercedes” voice control, an in-car virtual assistant that can control various car functions and search for information online.

There is also an augmented reality sat-nav system that overlays real road images with navigation instructions.

Finalists: Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, Mini Clubman

Award sponsored by VisionTrack