2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class gets sharper with new version

The current generation of the entry-level Mercedes-Benz A-Class is the third one in its timeline. This generation turned the quirky old A-Class into a well-proportioned hatchback. But with several lacklustre years under its belt, it was getting old and Mercedes has brought out a new one. They’ve taken the covers off a sharper A-Class which ticks all the right geek boxes, if not the enthusiast ones.

Though the basic outline remains more or less the same, the front and rear of the 2019 A-Class have been heavily updated. The front now features the modern age Mercedes face similar to the CLS. At the rear, the stubby tail lamps have given way to longer, more slender units. There are twin trapezoidal tailpipes on either side of the diffuser.

Inside the A-Class, it is a nerd fest. Two 7.0-inch infotainment system screens are available as standard while 10.25-inch screens are optional extras. These screens employ the firm’s new MBUX system. There is a voice control system called “Hey Mercedes” which provides the driver control over many things inside the car. There is an optional augmented reality feature on the satnav which overlays the navigation info over the live visuals from the cameras. The new A-Class is filled to the brim with other gimmicks like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist and blind spot assist. There is an LED ambient lighting setup which offers the choice of 64 different colors. The heated seats also come with climate control and massaging functions.

The interior has also grown a bit to counter the reputation garnered by the current A-Class for being too cramped. Thanks to the 30mm increase in the wheelbase and 14mm wider front track, there is more space inside. The boot space is increased by 29 litres to total 370 litres. There are larger storage spaces littered inside the A-Class to improve practicality.

Under the hood, the A200 model will feature a new 1.4-litre petrol engine that churns out 161 hp and 250 Nm of torque. This engine comes with a cylinder shut-off system and is mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox. A manual transmission will be added later this year. There is a diesel model, the A180d, producing 115 hp and 260 Nm of torque. A new A250 model with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is on the way as well. Joining that will be a plug-in hybrid version and the mental AMG-tuned A-Class.

Expect the new model to debut in the GCC by early next year, possibly as a sedan.