Mercedes-Benz has lifted the wraps off its new A-Class compact car ahead of Geneva. The new model showcases much-improved styling, interior quality and a raft of new technologies in the vehicle’s class.

There’s less of a compact MPV feel to the new car’s styling with a more squat, purposeful stance and strong character lines running from the base of the front wheel arches to top of the rears. The nose also shows off a multi-element headlamp design similar to that of the controversially styled new SL-Class. Much like the new BMW 3 Series, against which the A-Class will compete, the new car will be offered in a choice of three variants: Urban, Style and AMG Sport – the lattermost (pictured above) offering 18-inch rims, red styling accents and revised suspension. The new shape gives the A-Class a drag coefficient of just 0,26.

The cabin showcases a palpable improvement in both aesthetics and quality with Mercedes placing a great deal of emphasis on the use of high-quality trim materials in its execution. Among the interior highlights are an updated Comand infotainment system with a free-standing screen and circular air vents.

The A-Class introduces a number of big-car technologies into its division, especially in terms of safety equipment. A collision warning system with brake assist module is fitted as standard and can be combined with an optional Pre-Safe system that can take pre-emptive measures before a crash, such as closing the car’s windows and tensioning the safety belt when its systems detect a potential accident scenario.

Six engines (three petrols and three diesels) will be offered.

On the petrol front, there will be a choice of 1,6- and 2,0-litre units with outputs of 85 kW in the A180, 115 kW in the A200 and 155 kW in the A250. The new petrol units will feature Camtronic – a variable valve-control system that aids fuel consumption. On the diesel side, the A180 CDI develops 80kW/250 N.m and the A200 CDI makes 100 kW/300 N.m of torque. The range-topping A220 CDI will feature a 2,2-litre turbodiesel unit that develops 125 kW and 350 N.m of torque.

All of the engines feature start/stop technology and can be specified with a choice of six-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions.

 

Original article from Car