A-CLASS ABOVE
MERCEDES-Benz Malaysia has unveiled the fourth-generation A-Class, with prices starting at RM227,888 for the A200 Progressive Line model. The new A-Class has grown in size and is now longer, wider and taller than its predecessor.
Two variants of the A-Class will be on offer for Malaysian buyers.
The first is the A200 Progressive Line model with a four-cylinder petrol engine with a 1332cc displacement, a maximum 163hp and 250Nm of torque. The A200 accelerates to 100kph in eight seconds and has a top speed of 225kph.
The other model on offer is the A250 AMG Line, with a four-cylinder petrol engine, 224hp and 350Nm of torque, which is priced at RM263,888.
The more performance oriented A250 does the century sprint in 6.2 seconds, and has a top speed of 250kph.
Both engines are mated to a 7GDCT dual clutch transmission.
Aside from the changes to the drivetrain, the new A-Class now has MacPherson front suspension with aluminium transverse control arms and multi-link rear suspension.
Both models are equipped with Dynamic Select (four driving modes) and there is a choice of comfortable or sporty damping characteristics.
Inside, the A-Class features a completely new Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) multimedia system, which Mercedes-Benz said was designed to create an emotional connection between the vehicle, driver and passengers.
It includes learning capability thanks to artificial intelligence and is able to be personalised. The system includes intelligent voice control with natural language comprehension and activation using the keyword “Hey Mercedes”.
“The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class marks a new episode on a revolutionary journey into the digital era of the automobile. This gadget-like car redefines functionalities with an intuitive approach and underlines the lifestyle element, making it the ultimate must-have item,” said MercedesBenz Malaysia vice-president of sales and marketing Mark Raine.
Both A-Class models feature two displays, measuring 10.25 inches, under a shared glass cover which form a completely freestanding widescreen cockpit and ambient lighting with 64 colours.
The all-digital instrument display can be switched to different styles from “Classic”, “Understated”, or “Sport”.
The increase in size on the exterior has been reflected with more shoulder room (9mm in front and 22mm in the rear), elbow room (35mm in front and 36mm in the rear) as well as more headroom (an additional 7mm up front and 8mm in the rear), as well as easier entry to the rear.
In addition, all-round visibility has been improved by reducing the pillar claddings by around 10 per cent.
This time round, the A-Class also comes standard with the Keyless-Go function making it more convenient in daily use.
And with 370 litres of boot space, the new A-class’ boot is 29 litres larger than in the preceding model.