2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class prototype hot-weather testing in Dubai

The underwhelming Mercedes-Benz A-Class is getting some sort of makeover, in time for an early 2018 debut based on the progress seen on this prototype spotted around Dubai for the past few months.

Judging from the camouflaged prototype, which hasn’t gained a proper corporate grille yet, it could just be a limited makeover, considering the car still retains its long front overhang, simple side-window lines and that awkward crease on the doors.

Hopefully there are chassis and suspension improvements as well as better interior materials this time around. The existing front-wheel-drive A250 fails to shine against the VW Golf GTI, even though the Benz costs a fair bit more.

Keep track of prices and updates in the Mercedes-Benz buyer guide.