4-years in development, apparently.
German luxury marque Mercedes-Benz has, apparently, spent the last 4 years developing and testing the new A-Class, after the current-generation model was heavily criticised for generally being a bit lacking in Mercedes-Benz-ness. The new model is expected to fix that though, if interviews and teasers are any indication.
A 36-second video previews the new model being put through its paces in trying sub-zero temperatures in Sweden, revealing that the A-Class will have paid its dues before hitting the market. There’s little information to be gleaned from the promotional clip, with even the cabin being covered up extensively, despite Mercedes already having shown it to us in its entirety.
“It’s a much more mature car, with greater space and improved comfort, together with ground-breaking connectivity and user-interface functions. We’ve made a big step in every area and consider it to be a class-leader in terms of technology and safety, much of which is equal to or, in some cases, even more advanced than that already used by the C-, E-, and S-Class.” — Senior Mercedes-Benz Official
As is normally the case with a new generation, the A-Class will see some improvements in dimensions, with practicality especially enjoying a big improvement. The boot space in the hatch is expected to measure in at a decent 370-litres, putting it within the same range as its closest competitors, with Mercedes having tested the space with various CAD data to ensure total ease of loading and unloading with a variety of cargo, like crates, pushchairs, and golf-bags.
Prices for the new A-Class haven’t yet been revealed, but compact-car division boss Christoph Eberlein suggests that there won’t be any noticeable changes.
“We are going for a premium feel, but compact cars still need to be approachable for everyone. It’s more about design and taste than price.” — Christoph Eberlein, Product Manager (Compact Car Division), Mercedes-Benz
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class is expected to bow in at the Geneva motor show in March, so stay tuned for more updates as they come.
For more information on Mercedes-Benz, check out our Showroom.
