THE NEW MERCEDES-Benz A-Class has been launched into the Irish market just in time for the 182 plate change.
This all-new fourth generation A-Class hatchback marks a major change for Mercedes-Benz as it introduces its latest technology usually reserved for its flagship S-Class models into its smallest car.
The new A-Class is noticeably larger than before and has a less bloated appearance. It is quite a handsome looking car now. Inside, there is more head, shoulder and elbow space while the boot capacity has grown 29 litres and can now hold 370 to 1,210 litres of cargo.
But back to that new tech. The A-Class features a multifunctional steering wheel, climate control seats with massage and multi-contour functions, and safety elements like lane keeping, adaptive braking, and various distance control and driver assist systems.
However, the star of the show is the new dashboard layout with its large infotainment screens. Entry level ‘Style’ models get two seven-inch screens, mid-specced ‘Progressive’ models get a 10.25-inch screen and top of the range AMG-Line models get two 10.25-inch screens. The cars also come with the new Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system.
To activate the ‘LINGUATRONIC’ voice assistant you say “Hey, Mercedes.” It comes with a touchscreen, touchpad on the centre console and Touch-Control Buttons in the steering wheel. In addition to the intuitive operating experience, less driver distraction is touted as another advantage. The MBUX system also uses artificial intelligence to learn and memorise instructions and the intelligent voice control features natural speech recognition. The sat nav also has augmented reality features.
Powering the A-Class are new engines comprising two four-cylinder petrol options of 1.4-litre and 2.0-litre capacity and a new 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel with power outputs in the 116 to 224hp range. Higher performance AMG versions are due to follow. Transmission options are a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic.
The first models to go on sale are the A 180d automatic, which starts at €31,600 for the ‘Style’ specification and the A 200 petrol model, which starts at €34,235. The entry-level A 160 petrol and A 160d will arrive later on in the year with prices expected in the region of €30,000. These will be confirmed closer to the launch date.
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