(continued from above)
The A-Class is a clear statement of the new dynamism of the Mercedes-Benz
brand", explains Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of
Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "It is completely new, down to the
last detail. In automotive development, it's not often you get the chance to
start with a clean sheet of paper. Our engineers and designers have made the
very most of that opportunity."
Design and dynamism are obvious characteristics of the new A-Class even at first
glance, simply in the way it sits up to 18 centimeters closer to the road than
its predecessor. The radical new design idiom that was so enthusiastically
received upon its first appearance with the "Concept A-CLASS" has been
rigorously applied for the series-production model. With their fresh
interpretation of the classic two-box design, the Mercedes designers have
created an emotive exterior with a pronounced sporty flair. "Applying the new
dynamic style of Mercedes-Benz to the compact class was a challenge that we
thoroughly enjoyed", explains Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz.
"The almost sculptural lines of the A-Class are very typical for Mercedes. The
feature lines, particularly along the sides of the car, then give the A-Class
structure and tautness."
The objective when it came to the interior design was to complement the sporty
look of the exterior. On top of this the car has a high-quality feel about it
that is unique in this segment, achieved both through the design idiom as such
and through the choice and combinations of the high-quality materials used. As
seen in the Concept A-CLASS, there is an option allowing a smartphone to be
fully integrated into the operating and display system. A special app makes it
possible to use the full functionality of the iPhone, and in due course also of
other smartphones, in the car.
All trim surfaces feature an electroplated finish in "silver chrome", giving
them a genuine metallic surface with "cool touch" effect. "This is just one
example of the way in which the quality of the A-Class's interior is not defined
by classic trim elements but by consistent design and by the specific materials
used", explains Hartmut Sinkwitz, Head of Interior Design. "The motto we used
when designing the interior was 'pure sportiness, newly interpreted'."
Particular visual highlights include, for example, the air vents, which stand
out like "sparkling jewels" (Sinkwitz), so underlining the exceptional quality
of the interior. The sporty character of the vehicle is further emphasized by
the integral seats (optional extra) in the front. The rear seat is similarly
sporty in appearance and can accommodate up to three passengers.
As well as the basic specification, which can be individualized with a wide
range of options, there is a choice of design and equipment lines that have been
put together with the requirements of customers in mind: "Urban", "Style" and
"AMG Sport".
The world premiere of the new A-Class (length/width/height: 4292/1780/ 1433
millimeters) will take place at the Geneva Motor Show (8 to 18 March 2012). It
will be making its way to European dealers in September 2012.
Mercedes-Benz A 250 Sport: Review (2/2)
