The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is now available in Singapore.
Launched last Friday (Nov 16), the hatchback is larger and roomier than the previous model.
Its overall length has grown by 120mm, while the wheelbase has increased by 30mm to 2729mm.
It is more practical as well, thanks to a boot capacity that has grown by 29 litres to 370 litres (rear seats up).
MBUX takes centre stage in the new cockpit.
But despite the car’s larger size, it is actually more aerodynamically efficient, with a drag coefficient of 0.25. The older model had a cd of 0.26.
The latest A-Class boasts a high-tech interior, too.
The carmaker’s all-new MBUX system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) takes centre stage here.
MBUX consists of a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment display with a touchscreen interface.
Illuminated air-con vents were first seen in the latest Mercedes-Benz CLS.
MBUX boasts intelligent voice control, too, which is activated by saying “Hey Mercedes”.
This is similar to the system available in the new BMW X5.
Also new to the A-Class is the ambient lighting, which offers 64 different colours to choose from.
Driving-wise, Mercedes says that driving visibility in the A-Class has “been considerably improved”, with the area obscured by the A-pillars reduced by 10 percent compared to the older A-Class.
The boot capacity has grown by 29 litres to 370 litres with the rear seats up.
The new A-Class can be equipped with the latest driving assistance systems with cooperative driver support, with functions adopted from the S-Class limousine.
For the first time, the A-Class is able to drive semi-autonomously in certain situations.
For example, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC as part of the Driving Assistance package is not only able to support the driver to automatically maintain the correct distance from the vehicle ahead, but also to give the driver noticeable steering assistance, even on bends.
The new A-Class is currently available in three different versions.
There’s an A200 powered by a turbocharged 1.3-litre engine that develops 163hp and 250Nm, and the A250 which is driven by a turbocharged 2-litre that produces 224hp and 350Nm of torque.
An entry-level A180 is expected to be available by year-end.
It will have the same turbocharged 1.3-litre engine of the A200, but this unit will be detuned to 136hp and 200Nm.
Prices start at $152,888 (incl. COE) and are valid until November 22, 2018.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan is a compact notchback based on the new supermini
