Nearly four years ago, we heard rumors that Mercedes-Benz was considering dropping the diminutive A-class from its lineup. Oh, how times have changed. The German automaker is prepping an all-new A-class (M270), and we’re now able to get some insight into what it will look like courtesy of the Concept A.
The Mercedes-Benz Concept A is a stylized version of the upcoming 2012 A-Class. Falling in line with the rest of the family, its squared-off nose is aggressive and wears the Tri-Star emblem well. From the side, the Concept A shows hints of the CLS and even the R-Class. Though most of the swoopy lines seen above are concept-cool, we expect the production A-Class to to share lots of design notes with the Concept A. Yet we doubt the star-filled nighttime sky grille will make the cut.
A front-wheel-drive Benz, the Concept A benefits from both turbocharging and direct-injection. A BlueEFFICIENCY 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is fitted under the hood, and produces 210-horsepower. That four-banger is paired with a dual-clutch transmission.
More than a styling and propulsion exercise, the Concept A aims to add first-rate features to luxury compact segment. A radar-based collision-detection system will be the first of its kind in this segment and, when paired with Adaptive Brake Assist, can help lower the risk of having someone rear-end your 2012 A-Class.
We’ll get to see this concept car in person when it debuts at the 2011 New York Auto Show. Mercedes is also bringing the Concept A to the Shanghai Motor Show, but we take it as a good sign for the car’s chances in the U.S. that the concept is being shown in the Big Apple.
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