2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class spied testing

The next-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class has been spotted testing for the first time. This new A-Class will be the successor of the third-generation model which has been on sale for more than four years. The car spotted testing wore heavy camouflage, indicating that Mercedes might introduce significant design changes in its new hatchback.

The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class will be built on an all-new MFA2 platform. This new platform is an improved version of the MFA platform, which underpins the current-gen B-Class, CLA, GLA, and CLA Shooting Brake.

Proportions of the A-Class spotted recently look similar to that of the model currently on sale. But there are some significant design updates that are visible even under the thick camouflage. These include a thick C-Pillar and a sloping roofline.

The new A-Class will get LED headlamps and taillights. Moreover, features on offer would include an adaptive cruise control, an advanced infotainment system and semi-autonomous driving system.

The next-gen Mercedes A-Class will continue to be powered by the same petrol and diesel engines that are found in the current A-Class: a 1.6 litre petrol engine that develops 122 BHP, and a 2.2-litre diesel unit rated at 136 BHP. Both these engines can be coupled with either a manual or an automatic gearbox. But since the current-gen A-Class sold in India is offered with only an automatic, the same strategy might be followed when the 2018 A-Class is launched in the future.

The new A-Class is expected to make its debut at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, with deliveries to start in Europe in early 2018.

Source: Motor1