Mercedes-Benz A-Class vs BMW X2

WE SAY: WANT A SPORTY, POSH HATCH? BUY THE TALLER, HEAVIER 4x4. EH?

Are these two really rivals?

The hatchback scene is fragmenting, again, with taller, faux-by-four crossovers replacing mini-estates. The X2 is basically a stouter, snoutier X1, with front- or four-wheel drive, and a nondescript selection of 4cyl engines.

Meanwhile, the A-Class has surged upmarket. It’s longer, to unlock cabin space, it’s auto only at launch, and its cockpit wouldn’t be shamed by an S-Class for design or tech. Yes, these are enemies.

What’s the killer feature?

To create some daylight between the X2 and its X1 sister, BMW’s applied polarising but at-least-they’re-trying styling. Is it as resolved as an Evoque? To us, no – and the 3.0 CSL-style pillar badges smack of insecurity. But the lower roofline hasn’t eaten into headroom badly. The boot’s pokey, though.

The cabin. Only an Audi TT can compete for interior theatre for under £100k. Top-spec versions get pin-sharp, endlessly configurable, 10.25inch screens. The voice-activated Siri-style assistant, who’ll set nav, turn up the heating and loads more besides, is the best we’ve ever used.

Is it enjoyable to drive?

The X2 shares much under the skin with Mini’s Countryman, but new suspension and steering gubbins enliven the drive way beyond the lumbering Mini. Even this diesel xDrive 20d model is keener to corner than the petrol Benz. Rides tolerably on 19-inch rims – don’t be tempted by 20s.

Not in this A200 guise. The engine’s too strained and the seven-speed dual-clutch ’box that’s supposedly improved from the last A is still hopeless if panicked. The ride’s taut, but this is no driver’s car. We’d be tempted by the slower A180d, saving cash for cabin options instead.

What costs are we talking?

This top-spec 190bhp diesel with AWD, the fab auto ’box and M Sport trim costs over £37k, or £420pcm, and the petrol front-driver’s still £36k. Yikes. Both cars managed 41–45mpg on test, and cost £165 to tax.

A petrol A200 feels more futureproof than the diesel, and can be had for around £370 per month, says TG’s third-party finance calculator. AMG trim costs £1,200 (adding 18in rims, sportier seats and meaner bodykit).