The fourth-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class is up for a mid-cycle update and after several spy photos of hatchback variants we now see a lightly camouflaged four-door sedan. Similar to the hatchback, the front-end of the A-Class Sedan will benefit from a redesigned bumper featuring a different grille and intakes. The model already has one of the lowest cd ratings on the market so we expect it to retain the differentiation between the more aerodynamic regular trim levels and the sporty AMG Line.
The LED graphics on the headlights and the
taillights will also be revised for a more modern look while retaining the same
outer shape. We also expect minor changes on the lower part of the rear bumper,
plus new wheel designs. Spy photographers informed us that the dashboard was
covered, which hints at possible updates. We don’t know if the A-Class will get
a new screen layout, as seen on larger models, or just a larger touchscreen
with the latest version of the MBUX infotainment system.
In terms of powertrains,the North American
model A-Class will soldier on with the current base 2.0-liter turbocharged
inline-4 in the A220 and the all-wheel driver A220 4MATIC that produces 188 hp
and 221 lb-ft, though we could see some minor improvements here in the power
and fuel efficiency departments. Currently, Mercedes has pulled out the 302-hp
A35 AMG from its U.S. offerings, but we could see a return for the next model
year. In Europe, the facelifted model will likely retain the 1.3-liter
four-cylinder petrol and the 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel options, alongside
a mildly updated plug-in hybrid system and the turbocharged 2.0-liter for the
performance-oriented AMG A35.
We will have more information about the
facelifted A-Class range as we get closer to the official debut which is
expected sometime in the first half of 2022. The A-Class Sedan will continue to
be sold alongside its sexier CLA sibling which could also be destined for a
mid-life facelift in 2023.
