2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class spied on test

Mercedes-Benz is out testing the new generation of the A-Class hatchback. The next-gen A-Class will be similarly proportioned as the current car but will take its design language from the ‘Aesthetics A sculpture’ which was showcased last month.

Though the test mule is heavily camouflaged, we can see a sleeker shoulder profile running from headlight to taillight taking cues from the A-sculpture. The front of the car seems lowered down compared to the current car. The headlights feature a new lighting signature, while at the back a new wrap-around taillight cluster makes the car appear wider.

Being based on the second generation – MFA2 platform, the new generation A-Class will benefit from a slightly longer wheelbase. Hence the car will be a tad bigger than the current car and which will result in more cabin space with extra legroom and a larger boot space. The car will continue with five-door configuration with no plans to bring in the three-door version anytime soon.

The A-Class will retain the front-wheel drive layout and will be powered by four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. The AMG-powered variants will surely follow but also on the cards is a three-cylinder powerplant and a plug-in hybrid variant that could join the lineup later. 

Post the hatchback, a new A-Class sedan is also under development. It is speculated that the all-new A-Class will make its debut at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The car will go on sale only next year and make its way to the Indian shores soon after.