Yahoo Autos 2019 Mercedes-Benz A-class
What It Is: The new Mercedes subcompact sedan, built on a new front-wheel-drive architecture dubbed MFA2.
Why It Matters: The A-class sedan is part of a wide-ranging family of small front-wheel-drive-based offerings. With this second-generation architecture, Mercedes is expanding its small-car portfolio to as many as eight models: the A-class sedan and hatch, a long-wheelbase sedan, the B-class high-roof hatch, the CLA four-door coupe and wagon (shooting brake), the GLA-class crossover, and a new GLB-class SUV.
Currently, the United States gets the CLA and the GLA, but for round two, the more conventionally shaped A-class sedan becomes the lead product while the CLA moves upmarket and takes on more of a performance bent.
Platform: MFA2 is a transverse-engine, front-drive architecture with all-wheel drive also available. The styling of the new-generation cars was previewed by the concept A four-door and is cleaner and more restrained than the busy look of today’s models. The cars still will present a sporty face to the world, however, with a grille treatment that borrows from the brand’s sports cars.
Compared with the current CLA, the new A-class sedan has a more upright greenhouse. It should make for a much roomier interior than the cramped CLA has to offer. The cabin design and finishes are said to be much upgraded as well—taking a page from the C-class—to compete more effectively against the Audi A3 sedan.
Powertrain: Expect an evolution of the current Mercedes four-cylinder engines, with the dual-clutch automatic also returning for a second tour of duty. An entry-level AMG variant is likely, although the max-performance AMG version might be reserved for the new CLA.
Competition:Acura ILX, Audi A3, BMW 2-series.
Estimated Arrival and Price: The new A-class should make its appearance next year before going on sale as a 2019 model. We wouldn’t expect pricing to drift too far from today’s low-$30s entry point, which is the key to pulling new prospects into the showroom—even if, once shoppers get there, they find transaction prices are much higher.
