A-Class to lead premium compact market

Mercedes-Benz A-Class
By Kim Tae-jong
Mercedes-Benz is opening up a new chapter in the compact car segment with its new A-Class, which will soon roll out onto the local market.
The new model, which was first introduced during the Geneva Auto Show in March last year, immediately become an icon of innovation with its sporty and dynamic looks that also promises high performance.
In fact, the firm sold over 90,000 of the A-Class in the European market in just six months after its launch in September last year.
It is not just a new vehicle; it has also led Mercedes-Benz to become the most dynamic premium brand in the world.
The appearance of the new A-Class reflects this new Mercedes-Benz design strategy. The result is what is known as a two-box design with a distinct character of its own, a sporty emotive exterior and an exceptionally high-quality feel to the interior.
The all-new A-Class was designed in an entirely different way to its predecessor, a revolutionary deviation from standard practices at Mercedes-Benz.
Although the modern look of the A-Class represents a serious departure from Mercedes-Benz’ existing product lines, it still maintains the high standards of attention to detail and premium quality that are expected from the luxury brand.
The exterior of the A-Class has also been designed with performance in mind, with this new Mercedes-Benz model series boasting a best-in-class drag coefficient of 0.27.
The interior of the A-Class represents a big step forward in terms of quality — both in the materials used and in the consistency of the design.
At the same time, the model’s athletic character is reflected in the standard sport seats, three-spoke sport steering wheel, and new round X-shaped grills air vents that recreate the feeling of a fighter plane cockpit.
The sporty looks also enhance the driving dynamics of the compact hatchback.
The turbocharged direct injection diesel engine gives drivers a chance to enjoy pleasurable driving and extraordinary fuel economy.
With its provocative design, premium interior and exceptional agility, the new A-Class is a new benchmark for the compact premium segment.