The new Mercedes-AMG A35 4Matic has been fully revealed ahead of its public debut at the upcoming Paris Motor Show. Mercedes-Benz describes the all-wheel-drive A35 as an “attractive entry-level model”.
The hot hatch – which slots in below the upcoming A45, and will thus take on the likes of the Audi S3 Sportback, BMW M140i and Volkswagen Golf R – is powered by a turbocharged 2,0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (based on the M260) churning out 225 kW (from 5 800 to 6 100 r/min) and 400 N.m (between 3 000 and 4 000 r/min). The result is a sprint from zero to 100 km/h in a claimed 4,7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h.
The A35 employs Affalterbach’s seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with gear ratios configured for “very spontaneous acceleration in all speed ranges”. The gearbox includes a launch control function as well as shift paddles. The A35’s exhaust system, meanwhile, features an automatically controlled exhaust flap as standard, with different levels of sound offered depending on the chosen drive mode.
An adaptive damping system will be optionally available, giving the driver the choice of three suspension control modes, while the high-performance braking system includes four-piston fixed callipers and 350 mm discs on the front axle and one-piston sliding callipers and 330 mm discs at the rear.
Inside, you’ll find the latest MBUX infotainment system, a digital dashboard and a new AMG steering wheel (with a flattened lower section, perforated leather in the grip area, red contrasting top-stitching and touch control).
Market launch starts with Western Europe in January 2019 (Mercedes-Benz South Africa has yet to announce timing for this new model’s local introduction).
