Calgary Herald

A hot-looking hatch that backs up style with performanc­e

Mercedes’ new A-Class hot hatch sprints from zero-to-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds

- GRAEME FLETCHER Driving.ca

WHAT IS IT?

The Mercedes-AMG A35 4Matic, which is based on the new A-Class, has an aggressive style and the wherewitha­l to back up its overt hot-hatch looks, and the rear lip spoiler caps things off nicely. Inside it features boldly bolstered front seats and a dashboard that’s dominated by two 10.25-inch screens used in Mercedes’ more expensive models. The execution says classy, and then some.

WHY DOES IT MATTER?

The A35 is powered by a new 2.0-litre turbocharg­ed four-cylinder that pushes 306 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque through all four wheels and a seven-speed twin-clutch transmissi­on. The combinatio­n brings a rapid 4.7-second run from rest to 100 km/ h.

The driving characteri­stics can be tweaked through four modes. At one end of the range it instils a little driving comfort, at the other it maximizes driving dynamics.

WHEN IS IT COMING?

At this point, there is no word on the of the A 35’s availabili­ty in Canada. All we know is it will not be offered in Canada as a 2019 model.

SHOULD YOU BUY IT?

The Mercedes-AMG A35 is a hot hatch of the first order. It has powerful looks, the right drivetrain and the wherewitha­l to put its impressive power to pavement with minimal fuss. More intriguing is the fact it paves the way for the A45; rumours suggest it will have 400 hp!

 ?? GRAEME FLETCHER/DRIVING ?? The 2019 Mercedes-AMG A35 has speed.
GRAEME FLETCHER/DRIVING The 2019 Mercedes-AMG A35 has speed.

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