The new generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class
has plugged into the heart of the compact segment in Australia, with the
introduction of the A250e models. Available in the hatchback and sedan body
styles, from AU$ 63,400 (US$ 46,111) and AU$ 66,000 (US$ 48,002)
respectively, they offer up to 73 km of electric range, return 1.6
l/100 km (147 mpg US) and emit 34 g/km of CO2.
The 75 kW (101 HP) and 300 Nm of torque electric motor, fed by a 15.6 kWh battery, starts the
1.3-liter petrol engine that develops 158 HP and 250 Nm. Channeled to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic
transmission, the combined output is 215 HP and 450 Nm, and the 0-100 km/h acceleration takes 6.6 seconds in the
hatch and 6.7 seconds in the sedan.
The A250e packs the standard Type 2 plug,
with AC power at 3.7 kW, and customers can choose the DC Charging Package
(AU$ 1,490 / US$ 1,084) that provides charging at 24 kW via the Type 2 CCS plug.
With the latter option, the battery can be juiced up from 10 to 80 percent in
25 minutes. Drive modes include the usual Comfort, Eco and Sport, and also the
Electric and Battery Level.
Both cars feature LED headlights, 18-inch
alloy wheels, MBUX infotainment system, voice control, smartphone integration
and wireless charging and pre-entry climate control that can be accessed via
the Mercedes me Connect suite of services. A host of safety gear is also on
deck, including the Active Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Pre-Safe
accident anticipation system, Traffic Sign Assist and Adaptive High Beam
Assist.
