Photo: Automedia
The engine is still in the front and the power goes there as well, but that’s where the similarities between the old Mercedes A-Class models and the new one stop. The two generations built between 1997 and 2012 were superiminis, with small engines hidden under the dash, but this new one is a proper car, a family hatchback the size of any Golf or Focus, only kitted out with better equipment.
The second generation W169 A-Class was built in Rastatt in both 3-door and 5-door forms. However, this new one is only built as a 5-door. Mercedes’s future plans include a sedan version called the CLA and a crossover called the GLA, but no 3-door.
However, all of the A-Class’ rivals, the BMW 1-Series or Audi A3, come in both flavors. In the premium segment, 3-door models don’t represent as big a market as they do with superminis, but Mercedes will probably not want to miss out on a sales opportunity.
Here’s a rendering of what the 3-door 2012 A-Class will likely look like if it ever gets built. The rear character lines are still there, but the doors are larger to facility access to the back seats. The engine range will include everything from 109 PS diesels to the powerful A45 AMG with its 350 hp 2-liter turbo.
However, all of the A-Class’ rivals, the BMW 1-Series or Audi A3, come in both flavors. In the premium segment, 3-door models don’t represent as big a market as they do with superminis, but Mercedes will probably not want to miss out on a sales opportunity.
Here’s a rendering of what the 3-door 2012 A-Class will likely look like if it ever gets built. The rear character lines are still there, but the doors are larger to facility access to the back seats. The engine range will include everything from 109 PS diesels to the powerful A45 AMG with its 350 hp 2-liter turbo.
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