The Mercedes A-Class has always been a compact hatch with one major selling point – that three-pointed star on the nose. But while its predecessors all lacked a little substance behind the badge, this latest generation is a genuine contender for class honours.

Step inside and it blows its rivals away – the interior design and quality is wonderful, and the infotainment system is one of the best on the market at any price. Some rivals are more fun to drive and several are more comfortable, but the A-Class leads the class both in terms of refinement and efficiency.

The A-Class is an important model for Mercedes: available as a five-door hatchback and four-door saloon in the UK, it’s the brand’s biggest-seller. As with the third-generation model, spin-offs from the same platform are available – including the four-door coupe CLA, GLA and mini-SUV. Mercedes offers a selection of trim lines on the A-Class, with a choice of Sport Executive, AMG Line Executive, AMG Line Premium and Premium Plus, plus two dedicated AMG models: the AMG 35 4MATIC and AMG 45 S 4MATIC+. All models include cruise control, heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and adaptive LED headlights although the entry-level Sport version makes do with smaller 17-inch alloys, compared to the standard 18-inch wheels on AMG Line Executive and Premium models. Those above get new 19-inch wheel designs.

The latest A-Class updates no longer hobble you with a smaller infotainment screen either, with all models now getting a pair of 10.25-inch media screens with MBUX– Mercedes’ multimedia system operated via either the screen, touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel, or for certain functions, voice control. Apple car play and android auto are both standard on the A-Class as well.