Now in it’s 3rd
generation, the new A-Class does more than surprise.
·
Design & Engineering:
Having failed the Elk Test,
engineers of the 1st generation A-Class quickly fixed the problem,
carrying over increased thought and planning into the 2nd generation
model. Although over a million units of A-Classes have been sold, since launch
of the segment in 1997, neither the 1st or 2nd
generations have truly invoked a sense of individualism and excitement…until
now. From the outside, the 3rd generation A-Class sheds whatever
scraps of softness and MPV-like styling. Looking from the front, one notices
the enlarged 3-pointed star, as well as the accentuated curves and sharp lines.
This goes hand-in-hand with Mercedes’ goal to attract younger buyers and
long-term customers. As a result, the side sees a slight sloping dip, helping
to add onto the low drag coefficient of 0.27. The bum reveals an even youthful
and engaging catch, with the addition of two exhausts—one on either side on the
rear. This provokes a yearning for sporty driving as well as performance.
·
Interior:
On the inside, quality and design have
increased tenfold, taking on some of the B-Class’ interior designs. For
instance, the airplane-styled air vents and the i-Pad like screen. Weaved
together with a 3-spoke sports steering wheel, merely sitting in the A-Class is
a pleasure. In keeping up with competition such as the 1-Series and newly
launched A3, the A-Class incorporates contrasting stitching and a vast amount
of surface textures and seat material. Furthermore, the center console appears
neat and clean-cut, thanks to the new gearshift position as a side-stalk on the
steering wheel. However, despite having the best drag coefficient in its class,
the A-Class has one of the tightest rear leg space and boot. Note that the
A-Class does not come equipped with a rear air conditioning system—a standard
feature on competition such as the 1-Series. Still, sitting at the back is an
equally thrilling experience when on the move, for the sport-styled seats seem
to wrap around your shoulders, cushioning you as the vehicle squirms round
tight bends. What’s more, quality extends to the back, with everything from
side-panels to the seats being firm and truly German (well built and solid,
that is).
·
Ride
& Handling
With the A200, a 1.6-litre,
turbocharged 4-cylinder engine churns out a powerful 156 BHP, considering the
size and weight of the A-Class. Mated to a 7-Speed DCT, the century sprint is
completed in a cool 8.3 seconds. Despite the facts and figures, the curvaceous
and tight roads are where one realizes the true potential of the A-Class. As if
guided by an invisible beam, the vehicle hugs the road, following smoothly and
confidently in every twist and turn—at speeds of 70km/h. On the track, the
A-Class is simply so well built that
one barely notices the speedometer crossing over the 200km/h mark.
·
Verdict
What more can I say? The ultimate driving
ma—NO. Indeed, Mercedes-Benz, the best or
nothing. That motto has carried into the DNA of the new A-Class, making it
one of the most enjoyable hatches around town—which is why I can’t wait for the
A45 AMG.
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