CONVENTIONAL wisdom dictates that a regular family hatchback will prove more than adequate in most situations, be it the school run, the trip to the supermarket or even the odd weekend away.

Not everyone feels the need to bulldoze fellow motorists on the way to work with a sport utility the size of Switzerland.

But on the flipside, you can be modest about your aspirations and achievements without feeling the need to pedal a rust bucket - and Mercedes could well provide the answer.

Cynics may describe the firm's A-Class as a Mercedes for people who can't really afford a car with the three-pointed star badge, but the smallest Merc in the catalogue is no lightweight.

Boasting all the benefits of Mercedes ownership in a size that's easy to park and relatively cheap to run, the A-Class is more mini-MPV than compact family hatch thanks to its ingenious use of space and tall stance.

And shelling out a few more pounds for the privilege of owning an A-Class is not the hardship it might seem.

Although it won't have the makers of the Tardis losing any sleep, the A-Class puts the super back into mini, what with the way cubic inches appear to have been magically plucked from thin air to make occupants feel more comfortable.

With every seat taken, an A-Class will feel less sprightly than usual, which doesn't help the cause of the entry-level 1.4-litre petrol option.

Balancing the need to get to your destination on time with the need to keep at least some of your savings intact, the 102bhp 1.6-litre option is a safer bet.

Going for a modest power output will also help out in the handling department, as less is best. Tall of stature and narrow of track - despite the much publicised improvements after failing the infamous elk test' during its original launch - the A-Class prefers not to be driven in an enthusiastic manner.

Boasting more electric stability aids than most, the little Mercedes prefers a gentle hand on the tiller.

When choosing an older model, don't be put off by cars displaying above average mileage, as these cars are tough enough to take it. Running costs will be a fraction higher than for a run-of-the-mill hatch, but Mercedes builds its cars to last so don't let the servicing costs put you off.

For complete peace of mind it will pay to frequent renowned dealers when searching for a car, and always choose examples with a full history and plenty of paperwork.

The A-Class is not your average hatchback and neither does it fit the stereotype compact people carrier mould. It does offer space and prestige by the skip load, which puts it head and shoulders above the riff-raff.

Verdict: A class act.

What to pay...

1999 R/S £4,320.

2000 T/V £4,985.

2000 W £5,580.

Revised Range...see The Westmorland Gazette - In Gear in print.

All values relate to showroom prices for cars in A1 condition.

2001 X £5,795.