Launched in 2012, the current generation A-Class is quite different from its predecessors. It's still one of the most stylish models in this segment, but mid-life updates are going to debut this summer, ahead of the IAA 2015 in Frankfurt.
Our spy videographers stationed at the Nurburgring's numerous corners captured footage of this blue test prototype. To be honest, we already know what's hiding under the camouflage, since one pre-production A-Class has been photographed in the metal. So we're more interested in the handling aspect.
Why is Mercedes choosing to push this unassuming prototype so hard? Does it come with some sort of new adaptive suspension system or a fresh engine? Nobody seems to know, but this could just be durability testing.
Cosmetically, the A-Class will carry only minor changes. A new front bumper will be sculpted with inspiration from the S-Class and the latest SUVs. New colors and wheels will help keep things fresh as well.
Key changes include revised light clusters and front air intakes. Meanwhile, the profiled rear bumper now incorporates the exhaust tips (on models that have them showing).
Under the hood, the A-Class will share the engines from the facelifted B-class, while the A 45 AMG will see power bumped up by about 20 hp. But this isn't the A45, as it looks more like a basic A180 CDI. Audi just announced new clean A3 ultra model with sub-90g emissions, which Mercedes may be trying to rival.
The latest German info says Mercedes-Benz will open the order books in July (reveal time) before starting deliveries at the same time as September's IAA 2015.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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