2008 Mercedes-Benz A-class (W169, facelift 2008) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The 2008 facelift Mercedes-Benz A-class (W169) has a curb weight that ranges from approximately 1170 kg to 1365 kg (2579 to 3009 pounds), depending on the specific variant and added equipment. The curb weight refers to the vehicle's weight without passengers or cargo but with all necessary operating consumables like fuel and oil. Its maximum allowable weight, which is the total permissible weight including passengers, cargo, and the vehicle itself, ranges between 1690 kg to 1780 kg (3725 to 3924 pounds). This weight capacity ensures the car can be safely loaded without compromising performance, handling, or safety. Owners should always adhere to these limits to maintain the vehicle's reliability and ensure optimal operation.

The Mercedes-Benz A-class (W169 facelift 2008) provides a practical and flexible luggage space tailored for everyday use and longer trips. With the rear seats in their upright position, the luggage compartment has a capacity of 435 liters (15.3 cubic feet), offering sufficient space for groceries, luggage, or work-related items. When the rear seats are folded down, this capacity expands dramatically, ranging from 1370 liters to as much as 1995 liters (48.4 to 70.5 cubic feet) depending on the exact seat configuration and optional features. This generous expansion offers ample space for larger items such as bicycles, sports equipment, or bulky shopping, making the car highly versatile for various transport needs.

The Mercedes-Benz A-class (W169 facelift 2008) fits comfortably into a standard residential garage in most regions, thanks to its compact dimensions. The vehicle's length of approximately 3838 mm to 3883 mm (150.9 to 152.9 inches) and width of 1764 mm (69.4 inches) without mirrors allows it to easily park within typical single-car garage widths, which generally range from 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) wide. Even when factoring in opened mirrors (2040 mm or 80.3 inches), it generally stays within standard garage constraints, though care should be taken when opening doors or mirrors in confined spaces. The height of 1593 mm to 1595 mm (62.7 to 62.8 inches) also ensures clearance under most standard garage ceilings. Overall, owners should have little trouble parking this hatchback in conventional home garages.

The 2008 facelift Mercedes-Benz A-class (W169) retained much of the compact dimensions of its predecessor, the original W169 produced from 2004 to 2008. The facelift mainly improved styling, technology, and interior refinement rather than causing major changes to the car’s size. Dimensions like length remained in the range of roughly 3838 mm to 3883 mm (150.9 to 152.9 inches), width was steady at around 1764 mm (69.4 inches), and height stayed near 1593 mm to 1595 mm (62.7 to 62.8 inches). While the overall size and curb weight were similar, the facelift brought aerodynamic enhancements and minor tweaks that improved driving dynamics and fuel efficiency. Thus, in terms of raw size, the facelift is very comparable to the original W169, but with upgrades in style and features.

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz A-class (W169 facelift) competes with other premium compact hatchbacks such as the BMW 1 Series, Audi A3, and Volkswagen Golf. Dimensionally, the A-class fits squarely within the compact hatchback segment: its length of 3838-3883 mm (150.9-152.9 inches) and width of 1764 mm (69.4 inches) position it slightly more compact than some rivals like the Audi A3, which tends to be a bit longer. The luggage capacity of 435 liters (15.3 cubic feet) with seats up and up to 1995 liters (70.5 cubic feet) folded is competitive, offering versatile space for urban and weekend use alike. Where the A-class stands out is its premium German build quality, innovative safety features, and interior ergonomics, while rivals might edge it in outright cargo space or engine variety. The A-class offers a refined package for buyers prioritizing luxury and compact practicality.

The Mercedes-Benz A-class (W169 facelift 2008) is equipped with tire sizes ranging from 185/65 R15 to 195/55 R16. Correspondingly, the rims come in the sizes of 6J x 15 and 6J x 16. These tires and wheels are optimized to balance comfort, handling, and efficiency. The 15-inch wheels with 185/65 tires provide a comfortable ride and good shock absorption ideal for city and suburban driving, while the optional 16-inch wheels with 195/55 tires improve road grip and handling characteristics by offering a slightly wider and lower profile tire combination. These options give owners flexibility to prioritize ride comfort or more dynamic driving feel.

The roof load capacity of the 2008 Mercedes-Benz A-class (W169 facelift) is rated at 50 kg (approximately 110 lbs). This means the car’s roof can safely support the weight of roof racks, cargo boxes, bicycles, or other accessories, provided the combined load does not exceed this limit. This load rating is in line with typical compact hatchbacks and sufficient for most common roof-mounted storage needs for outdoor recreational gear or additional luggage space. However, exceeding this capacity can compromise vehicle stability and safety. Owners should always distribute the load evenly and ensure roof racks are properly installed to make the most of this feature during everyday use or trips.

With a height between 1593 mm to 1595 mm (62.7 to 62.8 inches), the Mercedes-Benz A-class (W169 facelift 2008) strikes a balance between offering good interior headroom and maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. The moderately tall profile provides ample space for driver and passengers to sit comfortably, especially in a compact hatchback where vertical space is often a premium. From an aerodynamic perspective, while a taller height can increase drag, Mercedes engineers implemented subtle design cues during the facelift to optimize airflow and reduce resistance, thereby aiding fuel economy and reducing wind noise. The car’s shape keeps performance nimble and comfortable, catering well to both city driving and highway cruising.

The total width of the Mercedes-Benz A-class (W169 facelift 2008) expands to 2040 mm (80.3 inches) when including the opened side mirrors. This measurement is critical for practical driving and parking considerations, especially in tight urban spaces, narrow residential streets, or when navigating garage entrances. Although the car’s body width is a more compact 1764 mm (69.4 inches), drivers should account for the extra width due to mirrors to prevent accidental scrapes or collisions. Awareness of the full width with mirrors helps facilitate safer lane changes, better spatial judgment on narrow roads, and easier assessment of clearances in parking lots or garages.