Mercedes A-Class

Mercedes-Benz India has launched the premium hatchback A-Class in India (30th May, 2013). It was expected to be priced below INR 20 lakhs for the petrol model but Mercedes has priced the petrol model at INR 22.73 lakhs and the diesel variant is available for INR 21.93 lakhs. In terms of looks, A-Class is a winner with awesome styling and very pleasing front and rear end. 2013 model of A-Class was unveiled in March, 2012 at Geneva Motor Show. The A-Class is also very sporty from inside and will set new standards in terms of styling and overall comfort. It is slightly bigger when compared to BMW 1-series hatchback, which is also expected to be launched in India in near future.

Fast Facts

• Launched in India on 30th May, 2013
• Available in both petrol and diesel
• The petrol engine generates maximum power of 121 Bhp
• The diesel engine develops maximum power of 108 Bhp
• 1st premium hatchback of India
• Petrol model is priced at INR 22.73 lakhs
• Diesel model is available for INR 21.93 lakhs

Engine and Gearbox

Mercedes A-Class is available in both diesel and petrol. The petrol engine has displacement of 1600cc, which generates maximum power of 121 Bhp with maximum torque of 200 Nm. The diesel mill is a 1.8 litre unit, which generates maximum power of 108 Bhp with maximum torque of 250 Nm. Both engines are mated to a 7-speed automatic gearbox.

The ARAI tested mileage of A-Class petrol is 15.5 kmpl and the diesel variant returns 20.06 kmpl. Expect the real world figures to drop by 2-3 kmpl.

Dimensions and Boot Space

The length of Mercedes A-Class is 4292mm, width is 1780mm and the height stands at 1433mm. The wheelbase of the car is quite impressive at 2699mm. The boot space is also very decent at 341 litres, which is very good for a premium hatchback.

Acceleration and Performance

The A180 Sport model of A-Class takes 9.2 seconds to reach 100kmph and the diesel variant (A180 CDi Style) takes around 10.6 seconds to reach 100kmph. The top speed of A80 CDi Sport diesel is 190 kph and the petrol model cam reach 202 kph.

Mercedes A-Class offers ultimate comfort features, which has never been provided by any hatchback manufacturer. It comes equipped with dual-zone climate control system, traction control, auto-wiper, auto-headlamps, huge boot space of 341 litres, xenon headlamps and rear parking sensors. The build quality of A-class is top notch and is even better than some of the premium Indian sedans of this price range. The safety features include 7 airbags, ESP, ASR, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist, Attention Assist, Tyre Pressure Loss Warning System, Adaptive Brake Lights.

Music System

Mercedes is offering A-Class with a 20 CD Audio Radio with dual tuner, MP3/WMA/AAC- compatible CD player. It also has a USB interface and AUX-IN socket (in the centre armrest). It comes equipped with Bluetooth interface with hands-free function and audio streaming for music transfer, telephone keypad. It also features Speed-sensitive volume control, volume increased gradually from 20 km/h.

Safety Features

Mercedes A-Class is a very safe car, it comes with host of safety features like Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Curve Dynamic Assist, Acceleration Skid Control (ASR), Brake Assist (BAS) with automatic recognition of emergency braking situations and assisted braking, Adaptive brake with HOLD function, brake drying and Hill Start Assist and Attention Assist.

Verdict

At this price point, it will be the first choice for those hatchback buyers who want premium features with superior build quality but don’t want to buy a sedan or SUV. Let's see how Audi and BMW reacts to this aggressive and competitively priced premium hatchback.