Mercedes Benz A-Class continues its quest for dominance

This is the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class, which is longer and wider than its predecessor. This is good news for the typical customer looking to buy into this segment and even better news for existing A-Class drivers looking to upgrade.

The interior is the real highlight. Mercedes has taken the A-Class interior to the next level, inspired by the S-Class, by adding two widescreen displays to replace every dial on the dash. The standard screens are 7” wide, and the biggest is just over 10”. The displays feature voice control and the latest MBUX system, which learns as you use the car, noticing and reminding you of your regular habits, for example tuning into the news on your 6AM trip every day.

Spectacular interior in the new A-Class

Another impressive bit of tech is the ability for the hatch to use radars and sensors to drive “semi-autonomously in certain situations”. Active lane assist and brake assist come standard, with the latest DISTRONIC system, which reduces the cars speed automatically into corners, being available as an option.

There is a new engine derivative, too. The A250 and A180d will be powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel engine respectively, with the A200 being shipped with an all-new 1.4-litre petrol engine. The new engine is also the first 4-cylinder unit that Mercedes offers with cylinder deactivation technology, improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. All engines will be paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch auto gearbox, with active damping and all-wheel drive optionally available on specific models.

The new A-Class is available with adaptive LED’s and the striking design is, according to Mercedes-Benz, the most aerodynamic in its class. Suspension and bodyshell improvements reduce noise and vibrations, which is great, considering that the new platform will be shared with the next CLA- and GLA-Class cars.