Which is Best, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class or the Volkswagen Golf?

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class and the Volkswagen Golf are two of the most popular mid-size hatchbacks around, but which might be best for you? Here, we’ll compare the two and give you the pros and cons of each.

A red Mercedes-Benz A-Class car parked on a paved road with a green field in the background.Mercedes-Benz A-Class

A yellow Volkswagen Golf car parked in front of a modern building with a geometric facade.Volkswagen Golf

 

How do the sizes of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Volkswagen Golf compare?

Both the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and the Volkswagen Golf are mid-size hatchbacks, comparable in size to cars such as the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra.

  • The A-Class is slightly longer at 430cm compared to the Golf’s 428cm.
  • Both cars are 202cm wide with side mirrors.
  • The A-Class sits lower at 143cm, while the Golf measures 145cm in height.The interior of a Mercedes-Benz A-Class car, featuring a black dashboard, a three-spoke steering wheel with red accents, and a center console with a navigation screen.
    The interior of a Volkswagen Golf car, featuring a black dashboard, a three-spoke steering wheel with silver accents, and a center console with a touchscreen navigation system.

What interior features and technology do the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Volkswagen Golf offer?

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class has an interior that takes design cues from the brand’s more luxurious models. Some plastic parts might not feel as premium, but the overall look and feel remain high-end.

  • Models from 2015 onwards include updated tech like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
  • Tablet-like screens are standard, with later models boasting larger displays.

In contrast, the Volkswagen Golf offers a functional yet solid and well-made interior.

  • It feels more premium than rivals like the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra.
  • Post-2017 models support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the infotainment system is intuitive.The rear seats of a Mercedes-Benz A-Class car, featuring black leather upholstery, red seat belts, and a headrest for each seat.
    The rear seats of a Volkswagen Golf car, featuring black leather upholstery with a blue and gray plaid pattern, headrests, and seat belts.

How practical are the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Volkswagen Golf?

When it comes to practicality, the Volkswagen Golf edges out the Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

  • The Golf offers more passenger space, especially in the back.
  • Adults will find the rear seats of the A-Class a bit cramped, while the Golf can comfortably accommodate two adults.
  • Both cars feature ample storage, including cupholders, deep door pockets, and under-armrest bins.

Which car offers better boot space, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class or the Volkswagen Golf?

If boot space is a priority, the Volkswagen Golf is the way to go.

  • Most Golf models provide 380 litres of boot space, compared to the A-Class’s 341 litres.
  • The Golf GTE plug-in hybrid and e-Golf electric models have reduced boot capacity due to battery storage, offering 272 litres.
  • For even more space, consider the Golf Estate model with 605 litres.

    The open trunk of a red Mercedes-Benz A-Class car, showing the cargo area with a black carpet, a net for securing items, and a compartment on the side.
    The open trunk of a yellow Volkswagen Golf car, showing the cargo area with a black carpet, a compartment on the side, and a view of the taillight.

How do the driving experiences of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Volkswagen Golf compare?

Both the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Volkswagen Golf provide excellent driving experiences, but they cater to slightly different tastes.

  • The A-Class balances comfort and sportiness, making it a versatile choice.
  • The Golf offers a more responsive feel and smoother ride, with quieter engines.

Both models have performance versions:

  • The Golf GTI and R models are renowned for their sporty performance.
  • The A-Class has powerful Mercedes-AMG variants for thrill-seekers.
    A red Mercedes-Benz A-Class car driving on a winding road with a green field in the background. The car has a black grille with the Mercedes-Benz logo and black alloy wheels.
    A yellow Volkswagen Golf car driving on a wet road with a green field in the background. The car has black accents and the license plate reads "KX17 OWM".

Which car is cheaper to own, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class or the Volkswagen Golf?

Ownership costs can vary, but generally, the Volkswagen Golf tends to be more economical than the Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

  • The A-Class is a premium car and may have higher upfront costs.
  • Both cars are fuel-efficient, with diesel versions of the A-Class offering over 60mpg and petrol models up to 52mpg.
  • The Golf provides a range of fuel options, including petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, and pure electric.

How safe and reliable are the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Volkswagen Golf?

Safety and reliability are crucial factors when choosing a car. The Volkswagen Golf generally scores better in reliability than the Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

  • Both cars received five-star ratings from Euro NCAP in 2012.
  • Modern safety features are standard in both, including automatic emergency braking in later models.
  • The Golf often ranks higher in reliability surveys.
    A red Mercedes-Benz A-Class car driving on a road with a green field in the background. The car is seen from the rear and shows the license plate "176 MBC".
    A yellow Volkswagen Golf car driving on a road with a field in the background. The car is seen from the rear and shows the license plate "KX17 OWM".

What are the dimensions of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Volkswagen Golf?

Here are the key dimensions for both models:

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

  • Length: 4,299mm
  • Width (including mirrors): 2,022mm
  • Height: 1,433mm
  • Boot space: 341 litres

Volkswagen Golf

  • Length: 4,285mm
  • Width (including mirrors): 2,027mm
  • Height: 1,452mm
  • Boot space: 272-380 litresA yellow Volkswagen Golf car driving on a wet road with a field in the background. The car has black accents and the license plate reads "KX17 OWM".

Which car is better overall, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class or the Volkswagen Golf?

While the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a stylish and comfortable hatchback that offers great value at used prices, the Volkswagen Golf stands out as a better all-rounder.

  • The Golf is more practical, offers a smoother ride, and provides more variety in power options.
  • It’s also cheaper to buy and run, making it a more economical choice without sacrificing much in terms of premium feel.

In conclusion, if you prioritise practicality and variety, the Volkswagen Golf is likely the better option. However, if brand prestige and a touch of luxury are more important, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class won’t disappoint.

Ready to make your choice? Explore our extensive range of used Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Volkswagen Golf cars today.