Hybrid Version Of Mercedes's Premium Small Hatchback

FIRST DRIVE We try new plug-in hybrid version of Merc’s premium small hatchback.

- Richard Ingram

It'd be crass to suggest the only reason Mercedes has added a trio of plug-in hybrid versions to its small car range is to help it meet stringent emissions legislation.

Yet mass-market models like the new A-Class PHEV will significantly cut the maker’s overall CO2 rating, allowing it to avoid some fairly significant fines. Cars like these also have the potential to provide sizeable tax benefits to those considering buying one when order books open next month.

Mercedes has beaten its rivals to the punch. No other car in this class – aside from the now-defunct Volkswagen Golf GTE – offers a useable electric range, let alone more than 40 miles. BMW will add a PHEV version of the new 1 Series in the future, but we’ll have to wait for an all-new A3 before Audi offers its executive hatch with a plug.

Based on the A 200, the new A 250 e gets that car’s turbocharged 1.3-litre petrol engine, linked to a 15.6kWh battery and a 75kW electric motor. Total output jumps from 158bhp to a not-insignificant 215bhp.