Mercedes-Benz Thailand yesterday launched the new generation of A-class compact car after a four-year hiatus.
A model simulates the sex appeal Mercedes-Benz is trying to convey with the launch of its A180 five-seater. WISIT THAMNGERN
The new A-class available in two variants: the A180 Style and the A250 AMG Sport priced at 1.89 and 2.49 million baht respectively.
Compared with its predecessor which followed a different design, the height has been reduced by 160 centimetres.
The A-class is a five-seat hatchback with the rear seat providing room for three passengers. The boot volume is 341 litres and if the rear seat backrests are folded down, its capacity jumps to 1,157 litres.
By ditching the brand's traditional core values of comfort and luxury, the third-gen A-class now focuses on sporty handling, racy exterior appearance and modern interior ambience.
There are two petrol-turbo variants to choose from: the A180 using a 122hp 1.6-litre engine and the A250 utilising a 211hp 2.0-litre engine. Both are mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
The A250 emphasises its racy performance by doing 0-100kph in 6.6sec - a good 2.7sec quicker than the A180.
Martin Schulz, vice-president of sales and marketing, said the new A-class will appeal to a new generation of young, active and individualistic people.
As the new A-class is the imported model, it is ready for customer delivery within the first quarter of next year. The new model will also be displayed and booked at the upcoming Motor Expo in December.
Mr Schulz declined to say the sales target for the new A-class.