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Mercedes-Benz A-Class vs BMW i Series

What's the difference?

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Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Mercedes-Benz A-Class

$51,800 - $99,485

2023 price

BMW i Series
BMW i Series

$68,900 - $198,500

2024 price

Summary

2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class
2024 BMW i Series
Safety Rating

Engine Type

0.0L
Fuel Type
-

Electric
Fuel Efficiency
-

0.0L/100km (combined)
Seating
-

5
Dislikes
  • Engine lacks drama expected from AMG
  • Ride feels unresolved
  • Big price jump over old model

  • Limited driving range
  • Some flimsy interior parts
  • No AWD model available
2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Summary

Think of a Mercedes-AMG and the first words that spring to mind are probably not - understated, efficient and restrained. And yet those are probably the best words to describe the all-new C 43.

Of course, before we go any further it’s important to note that the C 43, even in its previous six-cylinder guise, was never meant to be as wild, raucous or powerful as the C63 flagship - that’s simply not its role in the AMG line-up.

But even so, this new model is a dive into fresh territory for the brand and puts a very different spin on the AMG sports sedan as we know it.

This is a four-cylinder model, complete with a Formula One-derived electric turbocharger, so it lacks the sound and fury you expect from something carrying the ‘AMG’ badge - but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad car, as we’ll explain.

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2024 BMW i Series Summary

BMW added a new iX3 base model in September last year as a crafty way to navigate the government's increased luxury car tax (LCT) threshold for fuel-efficient vehicles.

The Bavarian carmaker now has six electric cars under the $91,387 threshold with major benefits for those looking to purchase a car on a novated lease program – not to mention less strain on the hip pocket for others.

This particular iX3 M Sport being made in China helps the pricing equation, but it remains a complete specification with plenty of gadgets, features and luxury touches.

A new X3 is due in 2025 but an electric replacement for the iX3 isn't expected until 2026 when it will sit on the Neue Klasse platform and be a very different beast.

That means if you're after an electric mid-sizer from a German brand, this iX3 is what BMW has to offer. With that in mind, it's time to take a look at BMW's most affordable mid-size electric SUV to see if it's a good deal.

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Deep dive comparison

2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 2024 BMW i Series

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