2014 Mercedes-Benz A-Class, B-Class Edition 1 review, test drive

There are no changes under the hood and both the A 180 CDI and B 180 CDI continue to be powered by the same 2143cc, common-rail, turbo-diesel mill which makes 107.3bhp and 25.5kgm of torque. The only mechanical change is in the suspension setting which has been tweaked for both. The other significant difference is the raised ground clearance. In fact, Mercedes-Benz will increase ground clearance on all its hatchbacks on sale in India, a rather sensible move, given the state of our roads.

Driving in the city, the suspension tweaks in the A 180 is immediately apparent. The A-class Edition 1 sees a big improvement over the sometimes thrashy ride of the standard car and does a better job of absorbing road imperfections and potholes. However, the ride is still stiff and bigger bumps thump through to the cabin. Handling characteristics remain incisive despite the car riding higher now.

On the Mercedes B 180 CDI though, there is much less of an improvement in ride quality and it continues to be stiff even over medium sized bumps. While driving over poorly paved sections, small and big bumps filter into the cabin.

On both the A 180 Edition 1 and the B 180 Edition 1, the higher ground clearance makes a considerable difference, especially on our roads. The extra height makes it possible to tackle speed breakers, mall parking inclines and deep potholes with confidence. And this is doubly true with a full load of passengers.

So, Mercedes-Benz has taken into consideration valuable customer inputs and improved a pair of already impressive products. With the regular A-class and B-class diesel continuing to sell well, the ‘Edition 1’ variants will only serve to add to the appeal of Merc’s compacts.

The Mercedes-Benz A180 and B 180 Edition 1 will be officially launched on June 24.