From the front, the new A‑Class conveys power and dynamism .The front view is dominated by the forward-sloping bonnet with its two power bulges and steep ‘shark nose’, the redesigned radiator grille with star pattern and the flat headlamps, available as an option in an LED variant.
The sporty character is underlined by externally flush wheels with four additional rim designs in sizes up to 19 inches, including optional high-gloss black painted light-alloy wheels in multi-spoke design and with a high-gloss rim flange for the AMG Line. The new rear diffuser and the standard LED rear lights ensure a fascinating and emotionally appealing appearance by both day and night. The high-class exterior is perfectly complemented by an attractive choice of exterior paintwork: A variety of non-metallic/metallic and MANUFAKTUR paint finishes are available.
Exclusiveness is also reflected in the interior of the new A‑Class. The absolute highlight is the standard freestanding dual-screen display with a 7‑inch and the larger 10.25‑inch display taking centre stage. Optional are two 10.25‑inch displays that seem to float with their wide-screen look. The internal architecture, which is unique in this class, gives rise to a very special lighting ambience that is perhaps reminiscent of the illumination of a futuristic building at night. The three round turbine-look air vents, so typical of Mercedes‑Benz, are a homage to the world of aviation. The revised steering wheel of the current steering wheel generation, in nappa leather as standard, is compact and matches the high-tech character of the redesigned centre console.
The new A-Class has also received an update with respect to its engines. The petrol engine range has been electrified throughout and includes four-cylinder units with a 7- or 8-speed DCT automatic as standard. As mild hybrids, these are equipped with an additional 48-volt electrical system that supports agility when starting off with 10 kW more power.
The new belt-driven starter-generator (RSG) noticeably improves the comfort and experience for customers of the new A-Class. During starting operations, for example, the RSG ensures a lower-vibration and quieter start than conventional starters. In addition, it allows ‘sailing’ with the combustion engine switched off during steady cruising. During braking and overrun, the RSG recuperates and thus supplies the 12-volt on-board network and the 48-volt battery. The energy thus generated can be used during acceleration processes to support the combustion engine. Through the differentiated evaluation of the various driving phases, the ECO Score 3.0, newly introduced for some engines, also motivates the driver to drive in a more fuel-efficient way.
More power for plug-in hybrids: The new A-Class takes another big step with the plug-in hybrid drives (Mercedes-Benz A 250 e Hatchback: Fuel consumption combined, weighted (WLTP) 1.1-0.8 l/100 km, electrical consumption combined, weighted (WLTP) 17.0‑15.0 kWh/100km, CO2– emissions combined, weighted (WLTP) 25‑18g/km; Mercedes-Benz A 250 e Saloon: Fuel consumption combined, weighted (WLTP) 1.0‑0.8 l/100 km, electrical consumption combined, weighted (WLTP) 16.7‑14.8 kWh/100km, CO2 emissions combined, weighted (WLTP) 24‑17 g/km) [2]. The high-voltage battery has been improved once again, so that the higher usable energy content leads to an increase in the electric range. The power of the electric motor has been increased by 5 kW and now reaches a driveline power of 80 kW. As far as charging is concerned, there are still three options available: in addition to the 3.7 kW standard, the improved battery can now also be charged with alternating current and up to 11 kW, instead of only 7.4 kW as before. The new A-Class also continues to offer the option of charging the battery with direct current and up to 22 kW. A DC charge from 10% to 80% takes around 25 minutes, providing a versatile charging experience suitable for everyday use.
