In automotive development, it is not often that engineers get the chance to start with a clean sheet of paper. Mercedes engineers and designers made the very most of that opportunity and so a brand new hot hathc was born. A is for Attack and the all new A-Class is a clear statement of the new dynamism of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
Design and dynamism are obvious characteristics of the new A-Class even at first glance, simply in the way it sits up to 18 centimetres closer to the road than its predecessor. The radical new design idiom that was so enthusiastically received upon its first appearance with the “Concept A-CLASS” has been rigorously applied for the series-production model. With their fresh interpretation of the classic two-box design, the Mercedes designers have created an emotive exterior with a pronounced sporty flair.
“Applying the new dynamic style of Mercedes-Benz to the compact class was a challenge that we thoroughly enjoyed”, explains Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz. “The almost sculptural lines of the A-Class are very typical for Mercedes. The feature lines, particularly along the sides of the car, then give the A-Class structure and tautness.”
The objective when it came to the interior design was to complement the sporty look of the exterior. On top of this the car has a high-quality feel about it that is unique in this segment, achieved both through the design idiom as such and through the choice and combinations of the high-quality materials used. As seen in the Concept A-CLASS, there is an option allowing a smartphone to be fully integrated into the operating and display system. A special app makes it possible to use the full functionality of the iPhone®, and other smartphones, in the car.
All trim surfaces feature an electroplated finish in “silver chrome”, giving them a genuine metallic surface with “cool touch” effect. “This is just one example of the way in which the quality of the A-Class’s interior is not defined by classic trim elements but by consistent design and by the specific materials used”, explains Hartmut Sinkwitz, Head of Interior Design. “The motto we used when designing the interior was ‘pure sportiness, newly interpreted’.”
Particular visual highlights include, for example, the air vents, which stand out like “sparkling jewels” (Sinkwitz), so underlining the exceptional quality of the interior. The sporty character of the vehicle is further emphasised by the integral seats (optional extra) in the front. The rear seat is similarly sporty in appearance and can accommodate up to three passengers.
As well as the basic specification, which can be individualised with a wide range of options, there is a choice of design and equipment lines that have been put together with the requirements of customers in mind: “Urban”, “Style” and “AMG Sport”.
This new A-Class (length/width/height:4292/1780/1433millimetres) is a compact hatchback designed for a new class of Mercedes buyers.
