A Complete Whizz-kid; Packed with hi-tech features, the baby of the Mercedes-Benz line-up is a clever little car, And following a recent revamp, it's abit of a looker to boot writes PATRICK JAMES.

Byline: PATRICK JAMES

MERCEDES-BENZ have always been at the forefront of pioneering technology, whether it be anti-lock brakes or brutally powerful engines.

The A-Class may be the baby of the stable, but that doesn't mean the company are any the less determined to put it at the cutting edge of technology.

For example, the line-up includes a number of BlueEfficiency models, which come with a clever stop/start feature that helps to reduce fuel consumption by about nine per cent.

The engine automatically switches off when the driver shifts the manual transmission to neutral at a low speed while applying the brake.

As soon as the clutch is operated or the brake is released, the engine is restarted within fractions of a second, and almost noiselessly.

The car uses a starter generator, which is linked to the crankshaft via the drive belt. As a result, the engine starts much more rapidly and quietly than with the conventional starter.

The official combined fuel economy figure for the A 150 BlueEfficiency is just below 49mpg. But it seemed even better than that.

During a busy road test, the fuel gauge seemed determined not to move, despite a fair amount of high-speed motorway driving.

Another hi-tech feature that is available to A-Class drivers is the optional active park assist.

Adding about pounds 540 to the bill, it allows the vehicle to "park itself", with the driver only applying the brake and accelerator while the manoeuvre is taking place.

Hill start assist, which prevents the car from rolling backwards when the brake pedal is released while the car is on an incline, is standard across the range.

The A-Class is not only awash with technology, but has also evolved into quite a pretty thing.

Revamped last summer, the sweeping lines give the car a much sportier and youthful appearance.

Striking alloy wheels, redesigned headlights and a new front bumper add to the eye-catching look.

At the rear, the bumper has also been redesigned - as have the light clusters, which now extend well into the vehicle flanks.

The interior is every bit as attractive, with comfortable seats that are fully adjustable and high-quality carpets and trim.

Instrumentation is conveniently placed and easy to use, once you get used to the single stalk for both indicator and wipers.

The cabin looks expensive and bright trim around mats and door sills add to the quality feel.

There are also plenty of goodies for the cash, with the usual array of electrics, a high-quality sound system and a multi-function steering wheel.

The latest A-Class also has more stowage space, including new cup holders and door pockets.

Boot space is reasonable for this class of car and can be further increased by folding the 60/40 split rear seats.

This, together with the high driving position, gives this relatively small car an MPV quality.

Safety has always been a priority with the A-Class, and the latest model ticks all the boxes in this area.

The baby Merc isn't cheap, but you do get plenty of high-quality equipment for your money, as well as good residual values.

CAPTION(S):

CLASSY PRODUCT: The well-equipped cabin feels expensive and all models come with a multi-function steering wheel and an infotainment system with a Bluetooth interface