2018 Mercedes A-Class (spyshot)
Mercedes continues the development of the next
A-Class at the track, bringing a test mule to the Nurburgring.
The new German premium hatchback will ride on a
re-engineered version of the current car's platform, codenamed MFA2, which is
co-developed with Renault and aims to make the new A-Class roomier, lighter by
around 50 kg and compatible with alternative powertrains, such as a
plug-in hybrid setup.
That’s because the Germans know where the current
model lacks against the competition and how to address these issues, without
having to re-invent the design of what’s considered to be a big hit for Mercedes.
That’s why the new generation will take an
evolutionary step in terms of design while getting better in every other
aspect. The interior will get redesigned in order to feel just as
special as the company’s other models do. A digital display is expected to
replace the traditional analog instruments as is an advanced head-up display
and an updated infotainment system.
The engine range will benefit from the addition of
Mercedes’ latest OM654 diesel units.
Measuring 2.0 liters in capacity, the new diesel units will be offered with at
least two different power outputs. The same goes for the petrol engines, where
the new A-Class will use a series of turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-litre
units from the company’s M254 family, adding a new A 40 AMG model to sit
between the A 250 and A 45 AMG versions with around 280 to 300 hp. By the way,
the hot 45 AMG version is expected to reach or even surpass the 400 hp mark.
The sub-2lt petrol and diesel engines will continue
to be provided by Renault. Mercedes is also going to replace the dual-clutch
seven-speed gearbox with a nine-speed version of it, which will be able to
handle more torque and improve the performance of the new compact model.
Mercedes is going to debut their new baby in late 2017, probably at
the Frankfurt Motor Show, with the first examples to hit the market in early
2018.
Source : Carscoops
