The third generation new Mercedes A Class looks nothing like its predecessor but is it just a radical face-lift, or a completely new car?
The New A Class
The second generation A-Class, sold from 2004-2012, was very definitely a family car. Avoiding the stereotypical family car box-shape, its aim was to offer comfort and safety as well as style. The new A-Class, by contrast, looks much sportier. It offers less space, and is styled much more like a traditional hatchback.
Speed
Two models are available; the A 180 BlueEFFICIENCY and the A 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY. Both models have standard six-speed manual transmission. Engine power seems not to have increased significantly; the A 250 delivers 211bhp, the 250 CDI 136bhp. By comparison, the second generation petrol A200 turbo delivered 193bhp, the diesel A22CDI however had 140bhp. The most powerful second generation model had a top speed of 135mph, and could accelerate to 62mph in 8.0 seconds. The current A 250 BlueEFFICIENCY needs only 6.6 seconds, and manages a top speed of 149mph.
Efficiency and Safety
Fuel efficiency for the new A-class is significantly better than that of the second generation. It has moved from a emissions standard EU4 to EU5/6, depending on model.
Safety features have also been updated. The extensive array of airbags, already standard in the previous A-class, has been updated and extended – rear air bags are now standard, bringing the total number of airbags to nine. As previously, the front airbags and seat belts automatically adapt the strength of their response to impact intensity. The new A-class also incorporates a radar-based Collision Prevention Assist.
The Interior
Interior design in both generations is up to Mercedes’ high standard. The new A class is significantly less roomy however, which is particularly evident in terms of boot space. On the other hand, the new generation has added a much more advanced multimedia system. A 5.8” colour display radio and CD player is fitted as standard, alongside a telephone keypad, Bluetooth, and access points for USB storage devices and music players. Internet access is also provided.
So, what is the conclusion? This is a new-concept A class, which shows tell-tale signs of AMG involvement. It is sleeker, faster, and more fuel-efficient than the second generation. Fundamentally, it has become less of a practical family vehicle (as such, it has been replaced with the B-class), and more of a sporty city car, with room for children at the back.
