Historically, the Mercedes-Benz marque has conjured images of stately sedans and powerful, luxurious vehicles. The epitome of Mercedes-Benz has often been represented by the prestigious E-Class and the flagship S-Class, symbols of automotive excellence and innovation. Particularly those bearing the AMG badge, signifying performance and a thrilling driving experience. Mercedes-Benz’s technological advancements typically debuted in their top-tier models, gradually filtering down to the rest of the lineup.
Therefore, when presented with the keys to the 2020 Mercedes A220, the smallest sedan in their U.S. portfolio, powered by their most compact engine, skepticism was understandable. Initial reactions mirrored this sentiment, with some online commentators playfully dismissing it as a “Mercedes Corolla.” However, after spending time behind the wheel, the A220 proved to be a surprisingly delightful compact car, defying preconceived notions.
Decoding the 2020 Mercedes-Benz A220
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz A220 marks the entry point into the Mercedes-Benz sedan family in the United States. While the A-Class has a longer history in other global markets, 2020 was its debut year for American consumers. Dismiss any notions of a subcompact vehicle; the A220’s dimensions closely mirror the mid-size Mercedes-Benz C-Class from the 1990s (W202) and slightly exceeds the iconic 1980s 190E in size. This makes the 2020 A220 ideally sized for most drivers, unless regularly transporting multiple passengers.
Every 2020 Mercedes A220 is equipped with a responsive 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerplant delivers 188 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and a robust 221 lb-ft of torque available from a low 1,250 rpm. Power is channeled through a smooth-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). While front-wheel drive is standard, the majority of 2020 A220 models are expected to feature the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and all-weather capability.
The test 2020 A220 model featured a relatively restrained option list, a refreshing change from often heavily-equipped press vehicles. Finished in classic Night Black paint with black MB-Tex vinyl heated seats, notable options included the adjustable suspension dampers and the impressive dual 10.25-inch screens incorporating Mercedes’ advanced MBUX infotainment system with augmented reality navigation. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for this configuration was approximately $41,000.
Behind the Wheel: Driving Dynamics of the 2020 Mercedes A220
Before delving into the driving characteristics, the standard seats in the 2020 A220 deserve praise. Upholstered in durable vinyl, these basic seats offered excellent comfort and support, negating the need for more elaborate and costly seating upgrades.
The test 2020 A220 was fitted with the optional Adaptive Damping suspension. This system allows drivers to select between Comfort and Sport modes, altering the suspension firmness. Mercedes-Benz also offers standard comfort suspension and a lowered, non-adjustable sport suspension for the A220. In Comfort mode, the Adaptive Damping suspension felt somewhat under-damped, exhibiting less than ideal control over bumps and road imperfections in urban environments. However, switching to Sport mode dramatically improved the suspension’s composure, providing enhanced body control and a more planted feel, particularly beneficial on winding roads and highway on-ramps.
The 7G-DCT transmission presented some quirks. Under gentle acceleration, clutch engagement felt somewhat delayed and hesitant from a standstill. Despite confirming first gear starts, a noticeable lag was present. Aggressive starts could also be jerky. Furthermore, the transmission’s shift logic in city driving could be refined. While paddle shifters are included for manual gear selection, their responsiveness was surprisingly sluggish, contradicting the expectation of rapid shifts inherent in dual-clutch transmissions. Gear changes initiated via the paddles were not executed promptly, and the transmission’s automatic logic often seemed to override driver input.
However, once outside the confines of city streets and onto open roads, the 2020 Mercedes A220 truly shines. It transforms into a relaxed and stable highway cruiser and demonstrates surprising agility on back roads. The DCT transmission’s responsiveness improves in more dynamic driving scenarios, intelligently selecting gears to keep the turbocharged engine within its optimal power range. While some purists might lament the front-wheel-drive bias of the standard A220, the available 4Matic all-wheel drive system, capable of sending up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels, provides enhanced traction and negates most concerns in everyday driving. Mercedes-Benz estimates a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 7.7 seconds for the 2020 A220 4Matic, which feels appropriately quick for real-world driving conditions.
In summary, while the 2020 Mercedes A220 may not be the most polished performer in stop-and-go city traffic, it excels as a comfortable and capable companion for longer journeys, regardless of road type.
The Essence of Mercedes-Benz in the 2020 A220
The test 2020 A220 featured Mercedes-Benz’s innovative augmented reality navigation, powered by the MBUX infotainment system. This technology, traditionally reserved for flagship models like the S-Class, highlights Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge features to a broader range of vehicles. Interestingly, MBUX debuted in both the Sprinter van and the A-Class, demonstrating a strategic shift in technology deployment. The augmented reality navigation system utilizes a front-facing camera to overlay real-time video with directional arrows, street names, and building numbers, providing intuitive and visually guided navigation. It’s a genuinely impressive and functional feature.
Beyond the advanced navigation, the overall “Mercedes-ness” of the 2020 A220 is striking. The interior materials and build quality convey a sense of solidity and refinement expected of the brand. While the adjustable suspension might be dispensable, opting for Mercedes-Benz’s ambient lighting and the premium Burmester sound system would further enhance the A220’s luxurious ambiance without significantly escalating the price beyond the test model’s MSRP.
Perhaps the most appealing aspect of the 2020 A220 is its compact size. It evokes the spirit of nimble and maneuverable compact sedans from the 1990s, offering effortless parking, agile handling, and a sense of connection with the road often absent in larger vehicles. Visibility is excellent, and the low dashboard contributes to an airy and spacious feel within the cabin.
While a fully optioned 2020 A220 can reach a price point exceeding $52,000, the test model represented a balanced and well-considered configuration. It strikes a sweet spot, offering a compelling blend of features and value. Mercedes-Benz has successfully created a compact sedan that retains the premium feel and sophisticated character of its larger siblings, catering to buyers who prioritize size and maneuverability without compromising on luxury.
