MERCEDES BENZ A-Klasse Coupe Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Mercedes-Benz introduced a facelift for the A-Class' second generation in 2008 for both three- and five-door versions.

After three and a half years since the car's launch, the German carmaker recorded over 500.000 sales for the compact MPV. Unlike its predecessor, this time it was a successful model. It was also the most affordable Mercedes-Benz on the market. Its MPV-styling was already out of date, but the carmaker tried to keep it running until its successor was ready to hit the showrooms. At the front, the 2008 A-Class coupe shown different grille colors depending on the trim levels. Apart from the base version, which featured 15" steel wheels, the Elegance and Avantgarde levels received 16" alloys. All versions received larger door mirrors, and body-colored door handles. Slimmer chromed trims replaced the previously used rubber strips.

Inside, Mercedes-Benz improved the materials and offered a new option for seats with seat cushion adjustment and lumbar support. Between the front seats, the carmaker installed a new center console with a larger storage compartment. Like its predecessor, the A-Class coupe featured wider door openings for easier ingress and egress for the rear passengers.

Under the hood, Mercedes-Benz introduced a re-developed 160 CDI version BlueEfficiency that offered a better fuel-efficiency by 10 percent when compared to its non-facelifted version.

The second generation of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class was launched in 2004 and it was available in three or five doors. Unlike its predecessor, it wasn't available with a long-wheelbase.

After the problems with the first generation related to the road-holding and the stability issues, the second generation came prepared to straighten up the things. It came with lower ground clearance, a wider track, and a better ESP. On top of that, it dared to be launched with a sport-looking 3-door version.

A better look, sleeker design, and still the same idea of a scaled-down MPV. All of these were adopted by the second generation of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. The sandwich floor was kept since it gave the car plenty of advantages in terms of safety and interior room. The hatchback style with a liftgate in the rear was also an advantage. Since the car was short, it was easy to drive around town, but the long 2.6 m (101”) wheelbase made it fit for long roads too.

Inside, the dashboard featured the instrument cluster design from the facelifted C-Class. The steering wheel featured the same inspiration as well. The long doors allowed good access to the rear seats.

Technically, the second-generation of the A-Class featured an improved rear suspension system that transformed the vehicle from a dangerous one into a very stable vehicle. A wide range of engine was offered for the car, starting with a 1.5-liter and 95 hp and going up to a 2.0-liter turbocharged that offered 193 hp. Three diesel versions were on the offer. Depending on the engine, the car was equipped with a 5- or 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT.