Mercedes-Benz A-Class - VFM BMW 2 Gran Coupe- Superb Driving Position, Enthusiastic Driving
Mercedes-Benz A-Class- Engine and Performance BMW 2 Gran Coupe- Interior Layout
First things first, the A-Class Limousine is not as sporty to drive as its profile suggests. It sits somewhere in between the class in terms of dynamics – not plush enough to feel luxurious, not eager enough to be fun – and thus it lags notably behind the 2 series GC.
The A200 petrol has a boomy-sounding 1.3-litre that also appears in Renaults and Nissans, but don’t let that put you off. With 161 bhp on tap, it’s more than punchy enough for daily driving in the city or the highway, even if it isn’t the most refined. The 7-speed DCT auto is smooth and attentive most of the time too. But it’s the road noise and engine noise that filters through the cabin that’s most underwhelming. Put a nice tune on that gorgeous sound system to drown it out a little.
And if you’re going to be stuck with four-cylinder petrol, front-wheel driven car in this class, BMW’s is the one to be stuck with, and the 220i is a good installation underneath – refined, responsive and with surprisingly honest steering feel. In corners, it feels like any real-world FWD thanks to precise reactions, and resistance designed to understeer, all coming together in a fluid manner. The ride really is sweet, and better than the A200, partly because all 2GCs get a real independent back axle that eliminates some of the gritty harshnesses felt otherwise.
