Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W177)

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W177) is the fourth and current generation of the A-Class range of subcompact executive hatchbacks and sedans. It was launched in 2018 as the successor to the W176 A-Class, with sales commencing in March 2018.[8] The available body styles include:

• 5-door hatchback (W177 model code)[9]
• 4-door sedan (V177 model code)[10]
• 4-door long wheelbase sedan (Z177, only sold in China)[11]

Development and launch

The W177 A-Class hatchback officially debuted at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show.[12] It is based on the front-wheel drive MFA2 (Modular Front Architecture) platform and features front MacPherson struts, and rear torsion beam suspension, though some models are equipped with multi-link rear suspension.[13]

In mid-2020, the production of the North American-market A-Class sedan returned to Rastatt, Germany from the COMPAS plant in Aguascalientes, Mexico to increase the production capacity of the GLB.[14]

The vehicle received a facelift for the 2023 model year.[15]

Sedan (V177, Z177)

A 4-door sedan model was released in late 2018.[16] The A-Class sedan is sold alongside the A-Class hatchback in Europe, while it marks the first time the A-Class is offered in North America but as a sedan only in the US and as both a hatchback and sedan in Canada,[17][18] while in Mexico it's the first time the sedan is sold, as the hatchback has been marketed for the first and third generation before.

It is based on the Mercedes-Benz Concept A Sedan revealed at the 2017 Shanghai Motor Show and came in response to demand for a more practical alternative to the Mercedes-Benz CLA.[19] A long-wheelbase sedan model (Z177) was also unveiled at the 2018 Auto China Show, featuring a 60 mm longer wheelbase and is sold exclusively in China.[20]

At its debut Daimler claimed it had the lowest aerodynamic drag of all production vehicles in the world, with a drag area below 0.49 m2, depending on exact equipment, including aerodynamic wheel and tire combination, grille shutters, etc.

Equipment

The W177 A-Class comes as standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, keyless ignition, and LED daytime running lights.[21]

All models feature the new Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with a redesigned touch interface and voice-controlled smart assistant that is activated by saying "Hey Mercedes".[22] MBUX also contains what3words functionality as standard. It is also able to offer quick shortcuts to menus based on the past habits of the user.[23] The system is also optionally available with an augmented reality navigation system that records and displays directional arrows on the road in the navigation system.[24]

Standard models feature two 7-inch displays for the instrument cluster and MBUX screen, and can be upgraded to a 10.25-inch display with touchpad controls,[25] real-time traffic information, and traffic sign recognition.[26] Other available options include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto,[27] ambient lighting, a head-up display,[28] and the use of a smartphone to lock or unlock the car via NFC.[29]

Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC+, A 45 4MATIC+, and A 45 S 4MATIC+

The A 35 4MATIC+ model was unveiled at the 2018 Paris Motor Show.[30] It uses an all-wheel drive layout and has a 7-speed dual clutch AMG SpeedShift DCT transmission.[31]

On 2 January 2019, the automobile insurance company, HUK24, accidentally revealed the information about new A 45 4MATIC+ and A 45 S 4MATIC+ AMG in its website.[32] The engine is heavily revised M133 and renamed M139 with higher compression ratio (9.0:1 versus 8.6:1 for M133 engine) and a twin-scroll turbocharger situated behind the engine for better air flow management. There are two power levels: A 45 4MATIC+ with 310 kW and 480 Nm and A 45 S 4MATIC+ with 310 kW and 500 Nm.[33] At 416 hp, the M139 engine fitted to A 45 S is the second most powerful series production four-cylinder engine with specific output of 208 hp per litre (or 77.5 kW per cylinder).[34][35]

The Mercedes-Benz A35 arrived in North America as the 2020 model, though it was only available as a sedan variant in the US, while Canada and Mexico received both the hatchback and sedan models of the A35.[36][37] In addition, Mexico also got the A45 4MATIC+ and A45 S 4MATIC+ hatchbacks.

2023 facelift

The A-Class received a facelift, unveiled in late 2022 for the 2023 model year. Notable enhancements include updated headlights and taillights. While the engines remain unchanged, petrol models now incorporate a 48-volt mild hybrid system. Furthermore, the 2023 A-Class features a redesigned interior and an upgraded infotainment screen, housing the latest iteration of the Mercedes-Benz MBUX system. Finally, the manual transmission was retired, along with the other two remaining manual models (the B-Class and CLA).[38]

Technical details

Safety

The 2018 A-Class scored five stars overall in its Euro NCAP test.[39]

Awards

• 2018 AA Driven New Zealand 'Car of the Year'[40]
• 2019 What Car? 'Safety Award'[41]
• 2019 AutoTrader South African 'Car of the Year'[42]
• 2019 CarBuyer 'Best Small Luxury Car'[43]

External links