Mercedes-Benz A-Class Facelift Sets Hope and Expectations High

Mercedes-Benz A-Class Facelift has made its official debut and we are wondering whether it is going to reach the high standards set by other cars in Mercedes-Benz luxury range. If you remember, the first edition of the A-Class, revealed more than 15 years ago, wasn't praised that much. This is not only because of its poor aerodynamics, but also because of the front-mounted engine, not so good chassis and suspicious styling. Of course, there are many other facts to count here, but obviously the brand explored new territory and during the years it showed that it is capable of developing the idea.

It seems that after so many transformations the luxury German company decided that the best way to boost the sales of the A-Class is to make it sportier, lower to the ground, more capable and more true to Mercedes iconic styling. And this facelift is probably a good proof for that. There is a lot of information released by the brand, and we are not here to make it boring for you, but to show the benefits of what has been achieved.

Suspension & DYNAMIC SELECT

The first thing to note about this Mercedes-Benz A-Class Facelift is the better combination of sporty performance and enhanced comfort. For this purpose, the German company has introduced a better DYNAMIC SELECT. Thanks to it, the driver is able to change the suspension characteristics with a single touch of a button. There are four driving modes to chose from, "Comfort", "Sport", "Eco" and "Individual", making the ride more individualized than ever.

SEE ALSO: Piecha Design Mercedes-Benz A-Class AMG Line

Although DYNAMIC SELECT is not included as a standard on all models, it can be specified optionally. The grades getting it as a no-cost-option are the Sport model line upwards as well as those models fitted with 7G-DCT.

Another important difference here makes the same technology feature included in the Mercedes-AMG A45 4MATIC. In this case, the modes are "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport +" and "Individual", typically found on higher grade cars. In addition, an AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package adds the option of mechanical front axle locking differential, AMG RIDE CONTROL sport suspension with adaptive damping and the fifth DYNAMIC SELECT driving mode "Race".

Updates for the Drivetrain Range

More available engines to choose from are the next benefit of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Facelift. The additions here are the efficiency champion found in the A180 d, which produces 109 horsepower (80 kW), but it is still capable of emitting only 89 g/km of CO2. If you ask about its fuel consumption, it has been rated at only 3.5 l/100 km. This makes us very happy, knowing that some of the A-Class cars from the previous model year, weren't that efficient.

The other changes are for the A220 d 4MATIC. It features a powertrain capable of 218 hp (160 kW) instead of 211 hp (155 kW) of its predecessor.

The engine in the AMG's A45 4MATIC also received update. It produces 381 hp (280 kW) and has an optimum torque of 475 Nm (351 lb-ft). Why are these numbers so important? Well, they make this particular car world's most potent compact sports vehicle.

AMG A45 4MATIC is 381hp potent and runs to 100km/h in 4.2 seconds.

It is so powerful that it can cover the 0-100 km/h sprint in only 4.2 seconds. This means that it accelerates 0.4 seconds faster than its predecessor. At last, we should also mention that the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sport transmission contributes for the dominant and agile character of the car.

Changes in Exterior Design

It seems that not so many things have been changed in the outer shell of this little beauty. Characterized by striking lines, the facelifted version of Mercede-Benz A-Class continues the design philosophy which was introduced three four ago when the A-Class concept was revealed. Well, we should acknowledge that the front bumper has more arrow-like appearance.

In addition, the dynamic surfaces and coupé-like window lines, blend perfectly with the new diamond grille. LED High Performance headlamps with "eyebrows" are an optional extra, except for the A45. The rear lights receive an entirely new design, while the exhaust tailpipes are now integrated into the bumper.

As you can see, the major changes are featured in the A45. Except for the specific new front skirt design for the A-wing, it has also received rear apron with four vertical fins and a striking spoiler lip in the diffuser.

Interior

Luxury is a word which is typically associated with Mercedes-Benz. However, it is not enough to describe how cool these cars have been made. They look more like a futuristic spaceship and there are a lot of reasons for that.

First, the design of the interior is dynamic and sporty and focuses on the experience of the driver. All is in their hands thanks to the multifunction performance steering wheel. It features flattened lower section, DINAMICA in the grip area as well as great design with red contras stitching.

The instrument cluster is defined by tubular design. It features dial graphics and galvanized switches as well as 8-inch frameless display. In addition, a lot of new colors have been used like the Sahara Beige and black leather combination found in the Exclusive package. The comfort is further enhanced via the optional 12-colors LED High Performance headlamps and ambience lighting.

Motorsport Edition

MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 team has created an exclusive trim with one-off design, which in my opinion is the most appealing among all grades. Racing fans are more likely to be keen on it, because of the various styling details. For instance, this specification features a petrol green front and rear bumpers and the rim of the AMG alloys in the same color. This shade is also found inside on the surrrounds of the air vents and the stitching. The sport seats have been wrapped in a combination of black leather and DINAMICA microfibre and features green decorative strips. The same design approach we see implemented for the seat belts. The Motorsport Edition can be ordered from A 220d and A 220d 4MATIC upwards, excluding the A45.

Instead of Summary

All in all, there is a good approach for the strategy of developing the A-Class in this direction. Although the car looks like a better and more dynamic version of the new Opel Astra, it still carries the specific for Mercedes luxury treatment. And this by the way differentiates it from its first ever version, where there was a complete dissonance between company's life-long commitment for producing exceptional cars and what eventually appeared on the market. If you are on the same or different opinion I would love to make a discussion with you. So please comment below.

In case Mercedes-Benz A-Class Facelift lights up your fire, you can order it from Friday. The car is expected to be available in dealerships in September. Pricing is to be announced soon.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2016)

2016 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Facelift drivetrain in details:

Source: Mercedes-Benz