and company car users will find the plug-in hybrid A250e enticing. Keen drivers may find the sportier Mercedes CLA a little more rewarding, though, and the Audi A3 Saloon has the edge on quality.

Classy, comfortable, good to drive and packed with technology, the Mercedes A-Class stands among the best premium-badged options in the family car class. If you can, we’d suggest stepping up to ...