New Mercedes Benz A-Class Offers Style And Substance

The new A-Class has grown in size and roominess, and offers more technology and greater performance, too. But is it the premium hatchback to buy?

- Jeremy Chua

The all-new A-Class is a more tempting proposition than its predecessor.

It offers better performance, more advanced technology and more safety features than before.

But only eagle-eyed buyers may be able tell it apart from the older model.

Given the success of the preceding model, Mercedes didn’t do anything radical to the new one’s design.

That said, the latest hatchback has slightly sharper lines and more angled headlights.

Its front end is now reminiscent of the handsome CLS model, and still retains the “bling” or diamond-look grille.

Despite looking similar to its predecessor, the A-Class has actually grown bigger. It is 120mm longer and its wheelbase has been stretched by 30mm to improve interior space.

Mercedes engineers have improved the car’s aerodynamics, too.

The drag coefficient is now 0.25 instead of 0.26.

If you thought the new A-Class has underwhelming looks, you’ll change your mind after getting behind the wheel. New design elements include illuminated air-con vents (first seen on the new CLS), and a 64-colour ambient lighting system. You’ll definitely be able to match the cabin’s mood to yours.

Although luxurious, some materials in the cabin felt a bit cheap.

I expected the column stalks (especially the gearshift stalk) and air-con controls to feel less plasticky and more robust.

Anyway, the real highlight of the cabin is the carmaker’s dazzling new MBUX (MercedesBenz User Experience) system.