BMW i4 vs Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | BMW i4 | Mercedes-Benz A-Class | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 340 | 218 | +56.0% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 430 | 450 | -4.4% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Plug-in Hybrid | — |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $77,544 | $55,512 | +39.7% |
- BMW i4 makes about 56% more power (340 vs 218 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Plug-in Hybrid), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Verdict: i4 or A-Class?
BMW i4 advantages
- Engine power (+36%)
Mercedes-Benz A-Class advantages
- Pulling torque (+4%)
- Affordability (+28%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the BMW i4 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the Mercedes-Benz A-Class if you tow, carry loads or drive hilly roads.
Value for money
BMW i4 delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
BMW i4 vs Mercedes-Benz A-Class: which should you choose?
BMW i4 (2026 i4 eDrive40 M Sport) — electric sedan with 340 hp and 430 Nm, rated at 16.1 kWh/100km, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $77,544 in the EU market.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2026 A250e AMG Line) — plug-in hybrid hatchback with 218 hp and 450 Nm, rated at 90.9 km/L, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $55,512 in the EU market.
BMW i4 vs Mercedes-Benz A-Class: BMW i4 is more powerful. BMW i4 makes about 56% more power (340 vs 218 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Plug-in Hybrid), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Performance
The BMW i4 is the more powerful, at 340 hp against 218 hp, with 430 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a automatic transmission.
Running costs
These cars use different energy types (Electric vs Plug-in Hybrid), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Safety
BMW i4 is rated 5 stars by Euro NCAP and Mercedes-Benz A-Class 5 stars by Euro NCAP. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class lists lower at about $55,512 (USD-converted from the EU market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the BMW i4 better than the Mercedes-Benz A-Class?
These two are closely matched — the right pick comes down to which specific strengths you value and the price you actually pay. BMW i4 makes about 56% more power (340 vs 218 hp).
What is the main difference between the BMW i4 and the Mercedes-Benz A-Class?
BMW i4 makes about 56% more power (340 vs 218 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Plug-in Hybrid), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
BMW i4 delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the BMW i4 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence. Choose the Mercedes-Benz A-Class if you tow, carry loads or drive hilly roads.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.