Static comparison: Mercedes-Benz A-Class vs BMW 1 Series facelift

Mercedes-Benz A-Class vs BMW 1 Series facelift
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BMW decided that the current generation 1 Series model needed a comprehensive facelift in order to remain competitive on the market, especially against competitors like the Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

So, BMW 1 Series facelift is here and it brings quite a few changes in terms of design. Firstly, the headlights have been revised and a more slim, angular shape has been adopted in order to make the front end look like a whole, while keeping the sporty design.

Another big change brought by the facelift targets the two-part taillights, which now feature LED tubes for a more dynamic view from behind. The rear bumper has also been redesigned in order to fit the new look.

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Overall, the 1 Series facelift comes with a more dynamic, sporty look, as compared to the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, which falls under the elegant side of design with its smooth edges and discrete lines – for a younger, full-of-energy look.

In terms of engines, we already know that the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is available with a choice of three petrol units (A180 – 122 hp, A200 – 156 hp and A250 – 211 hp) and three diesel engines (A180 CDI – 109 hp, A200 CDI – 136 hp and A220 CDI 170 hp). Of course, there’s also the performance version A45 AMG, which rivals the BMW 135i.

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On the other side of the fence, BMW 1 Series facelift is offering a choice of five petrol engines (116i – 109 hp, 118i – 136 hp, 120i – 177 hp, 125i -218 hp and M135i – 326 hp) and five diesel units (116d Efficient Dynamics edition – 116 hp, 116d – 116 hp, 118d – 150 hp, 120d – 190 hp, 125d – 224 hp).

It is worth noted that this range has been enhanced thanks to the addition of latest-generation petrol and diesel engines with three and four cylinders. At the same time, the BMW 1 Series remains the only vehicle in its class to offer rear-wheel driving, compared to Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, both adopting front-wheel drive configurations as standard.

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In terms of interior, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is offering a combination of elegance – enhanced by simple lines and an overall sober style – and hi-tech appearance thanks to its modern displays and controllers.

The 1 Series facelift however keeps the sporty tradition alive and offers a slightly revised interior where it gets an air conditioning system, rain sensors and the BMW Radio Professional infotainment system as standard.

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However, Mercedes-Benz is working on a facelift to be applied on the current generation A-Class so it will be interesting to see how the two models match-up against each other after the A-Class gets its fare share of improvements.