Will I buy a Mercedes A 180 hybrid?

Hi there,

I am considering trading in my diesel Volvo S90 for a Mercedes-Benz A 180 petrol hybrid. My mileage will be around 8,000-12,000km per year. What are the pros and cons, please?

Need to know if worth paying for a home charger - I am aware of the small grant. I drive for 30 mins to and from work three days each week, no regular long trips.

Thank you in advance for any tips!

Geraldine (Tipperary)

May 2026 Filed under: choosing new car

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Expert answer

Hi Geraldine,

First up, the A 180 is not a plug-in hybrid so you can't plug it in to charge up its battery. The electrical system is quite modest in that car, assisting the engine at times and recuperating energy on slowing down, but it doesn't drive for any distance on electrical power.

However, given your usage, unless your daily commute is at full motorway speed, the A-Class is likely to be almost as efficient as your diesel Volvo. The latter will be more economical on the motorway though.

The Volvo is also a much larger and more comfortable car so you may find the Mercedes a step down in that regard. The Volvo is more luxurious as well.

Saying all that, the diesel engine is likely to need more expensive maintenance in the medium term, while the Mercedes should be relatively cost-effective in that regard.

Top tip when going for the A-Class: don't be taken in by attractive large alloy wheels, as they make the car more uncomfortable.

And as we say to all our readers, make sure you go and test-drive several examples of the car yourself, so you get a feel for what you like.

Do let us know how you get on.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor