Mercedes Drops More Photos Of The New 2018 A-Class

The new 2018 Mercedes A-Class has entered its launch phase in Europe, packed with impressive technology and sleek styling.

For the first time in the history of the model, the new Mercedes A-Class is now able to drive semi-autonomously, thanks to the adoption of technologies that were first shown in the S-Class. Mercedes also claims that their new model offers the highest safety standard in the segment.

The new Mercedes A-Class also benefits from a range of new efficient engines, including a four-cylinder petrol 1.3-liter unit that offers up to 160hp (163PS) and 184lb-ft (250Nm) and features a cylinder deactivation system for better fuel economy.

Other engine options include a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol unit with up to 221hp (224PS) and 258lb-ft (350Nm) and a new 1.5-liter four-cylinder diesel with up to 114hp (115PS) and 191lb-ft (260Nm).  All-wheel drive will be offered as an option with specific engines, as well as a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Mercedes’ move to drop the MPV bodystyle of the first two generations was a success and the latest iteration hopes it will gather more momentum in the premium compact segment against the likes of Audi’s A3 and BMW’s 1-Series.

The biggest highlight of the new A-Class is to be found inside as the new compact Mercedes gets a very impressive dashboard design and debuts the company’s latest infotainment system, called MBUX.

The dual-display setup (which uses a pair of 10.25-inch HD screens in the more expensive models) is the first to use the new user interface and features a clever voice control system and a new touchpad with haptic feedback.

The new Mercedes A-Class has already entered series production at the company’s plant in Rastatt near Stuttgart, with Mercedes set to build the new compact model in a total of five plants across the globe.