Sure, here are the key differences between each generation of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class:
First Generation (W168; 1997-2004): The first generation A-Class was a five-seater compact car suitable for driving through heavy traffic. The five-door hatchback was powered by a 4-cylinder inline engine that provides a top speed of 167 km/h. The car was designed on a 95.4-inch wheelbase with a total cargo capacity of 391-litre.
Second Generation (W169; 2004-2012): The second generation A-Class, codenamed W169, was constructed with high-strength steel alloys and increased in cargo capacity by 15 percent compared to the W168 A-Class. Unlike the previous or next generation, this generation of A-Class had a 3-door and 5-door option.
Third Generation (W176; 2012-2018): The third generation A-Class was longer than the first-generation B-class. It came with both active brake assist and lane-keeping assist, while other systems such as speed limit assist, high-beam assist, and active parking assist were available throughout the various trim levels.
Fourth Generation (W177; 2018-Present): The fourth generation A-Class marked the first time the A-Class was offered in the United States and Canada. It featured a hood with two power bulges and a grille with a star pattern, and flat headlights. At the back, there’s a new rear diffuser and a new lighting signature for the tail lights. Inside, the dashboard layout remained largely unchanged, but the touchpad linked to the infotainment system has vacated the centre console. New to the car is the latest version of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) in its NTG7 form.
Each generation brought new features and improvements to the A-Class, keeping it competitive in the luxury compact car market. The fourth generation model marked the first time the A-Class was offered in the United States and Canada. This fourth generation A-Class is also the first to be offered both as a hatchback (W177) and sedan (V177).