The redesigned 2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class debuts in Geneva

One of the leaders in the automotive world Mercedes-Benz, will make a world debut of its all-new refreshed and remastered 2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class at the Geneva Motor (8 to 18 March 2012). The model is so significantly remade that no one could possibly think that this is a previous A-Class. In addition to innovative design, the car now comes with powerful engines ranging from 80 kW (109 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp), and extremely efficient, with emissions from just 99 g/CO2/km. Design and dynamism are characteristics seen at first sight on the new A-Class. It sits up to 18 centimetres closer to the road than its predecessor. Moreover, Mercedes designers have created an emotive exterior with a pronounced sporty flair.

In the A-Class range are also featured new petrol and diesel-powered engines, which will demonste the current state of the art in terms of efficiency. For the first time, a Mercedes-Benz will produce emissions of just 99 g of CO2 per kilometre. First, the petrol engines with a displacement of 1.6 and 2.0 litres, produse from 90 kW (115 hp) in the A 180 and 115 kW (156 hp) in the A 200 through to 155 kW (211 hp) in the A 250. Common to all is the combination of direct injection and exhaust gas turbocharging, a more advanced combustion process and an extended stratification range for lean-burn operation that uses fast-acting injectors for the multiple injection of the fuel as well as on-demand multi-spark ignition. An innovative fearute is the new CAMTRONIC, which in addition will make its world premiere in the 1.6-litre engine. It adjusts the valve lift on the intake side and restricts the amount of fresh mixture used in the partial load range, thus reducing consumption. Secondly, the diesel engines also offer a high level of efficiency and environmental compatibility, thanks to sophisticated injection technology and turbocharging. For instance, the A 180 CDI offers an output of 80 kW (109 hp) and a maximum torque of up to 250 Nm, while the A 200 CDI has a maximum output of 100 kW (136 hp) and torque that rises to 300 Nm. The A 220 CDI has a displacement of 2.2 litres, an output of 125 kW (170 hp) and torque of 350 Nm, delivering absolutely exceptional performance in the A-Class. Another important highlight here is that all of the engines in the new A-Class include the ECO start/stop function as a standard. The engines can be combined either with the new six-speed manual transmission or, as an option, with the 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Furthermore, the dynamism promised by the design and drive system is realised by the suspension. A noticeably lower centre of gravity and a new 4-link rear axle provide the basis for this; and would also make the installation of 4MATIC all-wheel drive possible. What is more important here is that the electromechanical steering in the A-Class has been completely redesigned, so that the electric motor for the power assistance now sits directly on the steering gear in the form of a compact and extremely precise Dual Pinion EPS.

The A-Class is the only vehicle in its class which features the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system. The latter gives a visual and acoustic warning to alert a possibly distracted driver to identified obstacles, and prepares Brake Assist for the most precise braking response possible. Another protection system is the PRE-SAFE® one, which is preventive occupant protection system. It includes reversible belt tensioning, the closing of side windows and sliding sunroof in case of critical lateral dynamics and adjustment of the fully electric front passenger seat with memory function to an ideal position for maximum effectiveness of the restraint systems. Other assistance systems which can be found in the newe A-Class are: ATTENTION ASSIST, Brake HOLD function, Hill-Start Assist, DISTRONIC PLUS, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, Speed Limit Assist, Active Parking Assist, LINGUATRONIC, Reversing camera.

The absolutely new exterior design of the A-Class range includes typical features of the long, sporty front with a pronounced V-shape. It also has separate headlamps, radiator grille with central Mercedes star and double slats to either side of the star, additional air intakes on the sides. The design of the headlamps in combination with the configuration of the light functions within them is a key element of the design concept. Furthermore, the light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged in such a way as to create the characteristic "flare effect" for the daytime running lamps and indicators.

How about the interior? Of course, it includes only high quality premium interior, which aims to deliver more luxury. In addition, the high-quality feel and sportiness of the car are achieved through electroplated finish, resulting in real metal surfaces with "cool touch" effect. The work has been executed with considerable care and attention to detail, so that they appear to have been moulded in one piece. The instrument panel is divided into a wing profile-type upper section and a lower section. It also incorporates five round vents, the outer rings of which have a high-quality electroplated finish. Furthermore, an aextensive range of seat coverings has been used. A wide range of materials, for example leather, fabric, Artico/fabric with a combination of a specific, provides scope for a broad range of individualisation options. At last, there is a choice of design and equipment lines that have been put together with the requirements of customers in mind. Namely, they are:  "Urban", "Style" and "AMG Sport".

Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2012)

Source: Mercedes-Benz