The 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class is the first manifestation of the German automaker’s move toward providing high-end specs in its lower-end cars. The hatchback was revealed formally in Amsterdam recently, giving enthusiasts the first real peek at the impending vehicle.
The exterior of the car does not look as pretentious as it did in the teaser pictures, however, the A-class still pleases the eye. A straightforward and simple body design is decorated with smooth and sleek tail and headlights. The hatchback has been lengthened to create an appealing profile and the wheel arches have been widened by 3 inches to highlight the sporty appearance.
The main emphasis, however, has been put on the new MBUX (Mercedes-Benz user Experience), which is the main attraction for the A-Class. The MBUX will be accessible in three forms: two 7.0-inch displays, one 7.0-inch, and one 10.25-inch display or two 10.25-inch displays, for the infotainment system. Each screen has its own dedicated function. The first screen works as a ‘virtual gauge cluster’ and the second screen majors in handling other infotainment features.
The MBUX also highlights an artificial intelligence system. Drivers can direct the AI to perform operations such as crank up the air-conditioning and find directions to the next gas station, all with the utterance of, “Hey Mercedes.” The MBUX will complement the safety standards Mercedes-Benz hopes to provide as drivers will be less distracted with controls and more focused on the road.
The driver and the passengers will noticeably have more headroom, as the cabin size has been enhanced. There is also extra space available at the rear owing to a bigger hatch. Additionally, buyers can opt from features like climate-controlled massaging seats, a set of active safety features, and LED performance headlights, whereas the LED daytime driving lights are stock.
Thundering the A-Class forward will be one of the three optional engines, which will be installed in vehicles overseas. Buyers can choose from two gasoline and a diesel-powered engine. The gasoline A200 and A250 trims will have either a 1.4-liter or a 2.0-liter inline-four drivetrain producing 163 horsepower and 224 horsepower, respectively. The A180d is the diesel variant, which maximizes the 1.5-liter engine to provide 116 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. A 7-speed dual-clutch transmission or a 6-speed manual can be chosen to perform transmission operations. An AWD option will also be provided on some variants.
The new 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class hatchback will grace showrooms across Europe by spring this year, while the US will only get the sedan version of the A-Class.