Mercedes-Benz has finally revealed its fourth-generation A-Class ahead of the premium hatchback’s official public debut at 2018 Geneva International Motor Show in March.
Employing design cues first seen on the new CLS, the Stuttgart-based automaker says the W177-generation A-Class is “as youthful and dynamic as ever, but grown-up and comfortable like never before”.
The new A-Class has an extra 30 mm in its wheelbase, along with more shoulder room and headroom inside, and easier entry to the rear. At a claimed 370 litres, luggage capacity is 29 litres up on the outgoing model. While 16-inch wheels will be standard equipment, sizes up to 19 inches will be offered. Three equipment lines (Style, Progressive and AMG Line) will be available, while “Edition 1” (pictured in grey below) derivatives will also be initially offered.
As we have already seen, the interior has been completely designed, sporting a free-standing display (three versions will be offered) and turbine-look air vents. There’s also the brand’s fresh “MBUX” multimedia system, which we’ve also already detailed. In addition, Mercedes says the new A-Class will feature driver assistance functions “adopted from the S‑Class”.
So, what’s happening under the bonnet? Well, Mercedes-Benz says the range will initially include three engine variants.
First, there’s the A200, which features a 1,3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine worth 120 kW and 250 N.m. This unit can be paired with either a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox, with respective claimed 0-100 km/h times of 8,0 and 8,2 seconds.
Next is the A250, which will be available exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch ‘box “developed further” from the transmission used in the outgoing model. This derivative employs a 2,0-litre turbopetrol mill churning out 165 kW and 350 N.m, which is enough for a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 6,2 seconds.
Lastly, there’s the A180d, which makes use of a 1,5-litre turbodiesel engine mated to a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This unit makes 85 kW and 260 N.m, with a claimed combined fuel consumption of 4,1 L/100 km and 10,5-second sprint to three figures.
Mercedes-Benz says “further new engines will follow”, adding that the new A-Class will be available with the permanent all-wheel drive system with fully variable torque distribution on request.
The brand says there will be a choice of suspension systems for the new A-Class, depending on engine variant and “driver preference”. All new A-Class derivatives feature McPherson front suspension, while the A250 and all 4Matic models use a four-link set-up at the rear (the entry-level A200 and A180d models make do with a torsion beam rear arrangement).
