Although currently unavailable in the United States, this mini-Merc is another example of the huge depth of talent most European manufacturers possess but that they have yet to unleash on the American public. To date, it's been felt that US motorists won't respond well to premium small cars, but increasing gas prices are changing the way we all think.
The New-Generation A-Class is now on sale in Europe and is safer, more economical and greener than before. The car was first launched in 1997 and its one of the best-selling models in the Benz range.
The design has been revised and new technical developments have further enhanced levels of safety with crash responsive lighting and adaptive brake lights. The car is more comfortable as a result of new interior materials, with improved adjustment and support in the seats. All models have new infotainment systems with Bluetooth connectivity, and the engines are now more fuel efficient as a result of three new BlueEfficiency models.
From March 2009 an Eco start-stop function will be available on the A 150 and A 170 models with manual transmission. The three-door A 160 CDI will benefit from an optional BlueEfficiency package, which improves fuel consumption of by more than 11%, to 64.2mpg.
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is now more youthful than before. The sweeping lines of the new headlamps combine the front and flanks, while the redesigned front bumper reinforces this impression; its lower air intake is much larger, emphasizing the width of the body. The radiator grille is also new.
Upgraded with larger stowage compartments and new fabrics, the seats are upholstered in an attractive combination of Artico man-made leather and fabric in three colors. In addition, new decorative trim of smoke-grey, diagonally brushed aluminum enhances the interior, while wood trim adds to the look and feel of certain models.
With fuel consumption between 42.8 and 64.2mpg, the new A-Class is extremely economical to run. Thanks to the introduction of an optional BlueEfficiency package for the three-door A 160 CDI, fuel consumption of the direct-injection diesel engine has been improved by more than 11% or 6.6mpg compared to the previous model. The package features measures to further improve engine efficiency, aerodynamics, rolling resistance, energy management and weight. It also features a diesel particulate filter. The sum of these measures means the A 160 CDI BlueEfficiency has an impressive fuel consumption of 64.2mpg and as a result the CO2 emissions of the 82hp model are 116g/km.