The Mercedes-Benz A-Class has been refreshed with sharper graphics, the latest technology and improved performance. In fact, the A-Class saloon has been updated in nearly all aspects that it might as well be an all-new car.
At the front, a forward-sloping bonnet with its two power bulges, steep ‘shark nose’ and flat headlamps arrests attention. The radiator grille splits the two models apart with a geometry pattern on the A 200 and a star pattern on the A 250 4MATIC.
Underlining the saloon’s sporty character, the A 200 is fitted with 17-inches 5 twin-spoke light-alloy wheels aerodynamically-optimised, painted in black with a high-sheen finish. As for the A 250, it gets to wear the 18-inches AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, aerodynamically optimised and painted in tremolite grey with a high-sheen finish.
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 and metallic paint finishes are available. Both models come equipped with Adaptive Highbeam Assist enabling drivers to see the road surface or any hazards more clearly.
The interior is a blend of tech and luxury, starting with the standard freestanding dual-screen display both measuring 10.25 inches 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.
Inside, too, the model range covers all individualisation wants. The base variant of the new A‑Class, Mercedes‑Benz offers a high-quality comfort seat whose new, three-dimensionally embossed ARTICO upholstery further emphasises the sportiness of the vehicle.
The A 200’s upholstery is equipped with ARTICO man-made leather. The vehicle’s Progressive trim features the new, dark carbon-fibre look trim element which further enhances both the instrument panel and the doors.
The AMG Line on the A 250 4MATIC is designed for performance and features light longitudinal-grain aluminium trim and red contrasting topstitching in the ARTICO / MICROCUT seats. The vehicle’s upholstery is ARTICO man-made leather upholstery / MICROCUT microfiber.
ARTICO / MICROCUT are made from recycled materials in line with Mercedes-Benz’s Ambition 2039 goal of launching a net carbon-neutral fleet. The aim is to reduce halve CO2 emissions per passenger car in the new vehicle fleet over the entire life cycle by half compared to 2020 by the end of this decade. The comfort seats feature fabrics in the centre section that are made from 100 per cent recycled material. In the case of ARTICO/MICROCUT seats, this proportion is 65 per cent on the surface of the seat and 85 per cent on the material underneath.
The new A-Class is formatted with the latest generation MBUX (NGT7), which is intuitive to operate and capable of learning. The driver and central displays create a holistic, aesthetic experience and can be customised as desired with the help of the newly designed display styles (Classic with all relevant driver information, Sporty with the dynamic rev counter, Discreet with reduced content), three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service) and seven colour worlds. The central display offers all previous functions such as navigation, media, phone, vehicle, etc. and can be operated directly and conveniently as a touchscreen.
The telematics system has been revised and impressed with its new design and improved performance. Of course, connectivity with smartphones is possible now via wireless Apple Carplay or Android Auto, and for further connectivity, an additional USB-C port has been added and all USB ports in the vehicle offer fast-charging capabilities.
Also updated is the safety assistance. Both models come with LED headlamps and the Parking Package with reverse camera. The A-Class cars are equipped with Active Parking Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Exit Warning Assist, and Active Brake Assist. The A 250 4MATIC has an additional Sports Brake System which delivers powerful deceleration, even after frequent heavy braking. The KEYLESS-GO comfort package included has both HANDS-FREE ACCESS and KEYLESS-GO functions. GUARD 360° vehicle protection offers all-around monitoring of the vehicle’s surroundings – for example with the break-in and anti-theft alarm system with tow-away protection.
The powertrains in both A-Class saloons are updated, too. The A 200 petrol engine has a four-cylinder unit with 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The A 250 4MATIC is now a mild hybrid with its 48-volt electrical system that injects an additional 10kW of power when starting off. The engine is mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Prices for the A-Class start from RM238,888 for the A 200 Progressive Line. Costs increase with the A 250 4MATIC with AMG Line exterior to an estimated RM264,000. More powerful A-Class cars in the form of the Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC saloon and the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ hatchback are also available.
