Mercedes-Benz has revealed the new A-Class sedan and I’m just going to put it out there – it looks great. It looks like everything the targeted demographic will be appealed to and it’s a time bomb waiting to explode, should it arrive in Malaysia.
The A200 will be fitted with a petrol-powered engine making 163 hp and 250 Nm while its diesel counterpart is set to dish out 116 hp with 260 Nm. Both powerplants are mated to a 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission. 4MATIC and adaptive damping will be available for more powerful models.
Built with a Sensual Purity design theme, the new A-Class Sedan features a highly-aerodynamic shell, clear formal shapes emphasising surface areas with reduced lines, short front and rear overhangs.
It creates a design I feel will plug the gap left behind by those who aren’t keen on the A-Class hatchback but aren’t willing to stretch as far as the C-Class. Matching this dynamic new look are a selection of 16- to 19-inch wheels (which have been optimised for better aerodynamics) to complement the pronounced wheel arches of the A-Class sedan.
Speaking of pronounced, the prominent single-louvre diamond radiator grille with chrome pins at the front, is unfortunately an optional extra. Aerodynamic improvements have been extensive on the A-Class sedan with most of its underbody completely covered, along with front and rear wheel spoilers designed to channel air around the wheels.
Unlike the old A-Class, the new sedan and hatchback’s side mirrors sit on the belt-line instead of the edge of the window frame. Depending on how you specify the car, the rear bumper can be available with a black diffuser or with chrome trim strip and chrome tailpipes.
Inside, the new A-Class sedan is revolutionised with a new feeling of spaciousness – a remark that sadly couldn’t be passed in the previous generation A-Class hatchback – with near claustrophobia-inducing rear headroom.
A free-standing cockpit is available in three different layouts – two 7-inch displays, a 7-inch display with another 10.25-inch display or two 10.25-inch displays. They’re all equipped with the new Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) multimedia system, featured for the first time in the new A-Class.
Safety systems in the new A-Class Sedan have been brought over from the S-Class, with semi-autonomous driving function available in certain situations. Improved camera and radar systems allow the car “to see” up to 500 metres ahead. Also on board are the Active Emergency Stop Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, Active Brake Assist.
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