The Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W177) A 250e, a plug-in hybrid variant, was produced from 2019 to 2022. Positioned as a premium offering within the fourth generation of the A-Class (W177), it combined a 1.3-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The A 250e was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a more environmentally conscious vehicle without sacrificing the luxury and technology associated with the Mercedes-Benz brand. It utilized the 8G-DCT dual-clutch transmission, a key component in delivering smooth and efficient power delivery.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A-class |
| Generation | A-class (W177) |
| Type (Engine) | A 250e (218 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 8G-DCT |
| Start of production | 2019 year |
| End of production | 2022 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1-1.3 l/100 km |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) – US mpg | 235.2 – 180.9 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) – UK mpg | 282.5 – 217.3 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) – km/l | 100 – 76.9 |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 22-30 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC) – combined | 1.4-1.6 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC) – combined – US mpg | 168 – 147 |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC) – combined – UK mpg | 201.8 – 176.6 |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC) – combined – km/l | 71.4 – 62.5 |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 32-36 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 135.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 280.4 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 15.6 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 10.9 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 150 kg (330.69 lbs.) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the rear seats |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 62-73 km (38.53 – 45.36 mi) |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 74-76 km (45.98 – 47.22 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 14.8-16.6 kWh/100 km |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) – kWh/100 mi | 23.82 – 26.72 |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) – MPGe | 141 – 126 |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) – km/kWh | 6.8 – 6 |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) – mi/kWh | 4.2 – 3.7 |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) | 14.8-15 kWh/100 km |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) – kWh/100 mi | 23.82 – 24.14 |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) – MPGe | 141 – 140 |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) – km/kWh | 6.8 – 6.7 |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) – mi/kWh | 4.2 – 4.1 |
| Max speed (electric) | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 102 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 218 Hp |
| System torque | 450 Nm (331.9 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 120.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1620-4000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1620-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 282.914 |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm (2.84 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1605 kg (3538.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2155 kg (4750.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 310 l (10.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1125 l (39.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4419 mm (173.98 in.) |
| Width | 1796 mm (70.71 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1992 mm (78.43 in.) |
| Height | 1452 mm (57.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2729 mm (107.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Front overhang | 914 mm (35.98 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 776 mm (30.55 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 13.4° |
| Departure angle | 17.2° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 9.4° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission G-DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The A 250e’s powertrain centers around the M 282.914 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, coupled with a 102 hp electric motor. This engine is a member of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its compact size and efficiency. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver 160 hp at 5500 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque between 1620 and 4000 rpm. The electric motor is positioned between the engine and the 8G-DCT dual-clutch transmission, allowing for seamless integration of electric and gasoline power. The 8G-DCT transmission, a staple in many Mercedes-Benz models, provides quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The 15.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is located under the rear seats, minimizing impact on cabin space.
Driving Characteristics
The A 250e offers a unique driving experience, blending the responsiveness of a gasoline engine with the instant torque of an electric motor. In electric-only mode, the vehicle provides quiet and emission-free driving for up to 62-73 km (38.53 – 45.36 mi) depending on driving conditions. When combined, the system delivers a total output of 218 hp and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque, resulting in a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 6.6 seconds. The 8G-DCT transmission is well-tuned to manage the power delivery, offering both comfortable cruising and brisk acceleration. Compared to the standard A-Class models with lower-powered engines, the A 250e provides significantly more performance. However, the added weight of the battery pack does slightly impact handling compared to lighter variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A 250e typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium plug-in hybrid. Standard features often included Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system with a touchscreen display, navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Interior upholstery was typically a combination of Artico leather and Dinamica microfiber. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance packages. The trim level often dictated the availability of certain features and customization options.
Chassis & Braking
The A 250e utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The suspension setup is tuned to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. Due to the added weight of the battery pack, the A 250e often featured slightly stiffer spring rates compared to standard A-Class models. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The electric motor also provides regenerative braking, which helps to recapture energy and extend the electric range.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A 250e was generally well-received by critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, smooth driving experience, and the integration of the plug-in hybrid technology. Compared to other A-Class variants, the A 250e offered a compelling alternative for buyers prioritizing environmental consciousness and lower running costs. While the initial purchase price was higher than that of gasoline-only models, the potential for fuel savings and government incentives made it an attractive option. Some reviewers noted that the battery pack slightly reduced trunk space compared to non-hybrid versions.
Legacy
The A 250e represents Mercedes-Benz’s early foray into plug-in hybrid technology within the compact segment. The powertrain, while not without its complexities, has proven to be relatively reliable in real-world use. On the used car market, the A 250e remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and technologically advanced vehicle. The longevity of the battery pack is a key consideration for potential buyers, but with proper maintenance, the A 250e’s powertrain is expected to provide many years of reliable service. It paved the way for further electrification within the A-Class range and contributed to Mercedes-Benz’s broader commitment to sustainable mobility.
