Mercedes-Benz's all-new A-Class has officially gone on sale in Europe.
While there are a trio of trim levels, with AMG topping that, Mercedes has - as usual - released an "Edition 1" model, that will be only available for the models' first year of release, making it somewhat desirable.
The "Edition 1" pack is based on the AMG-Line, and adds yellow touches throughout. There are a few engine options for now - both petrol and diesel - but the range is currently topped by the 165kw 2.0-litre turbo A250, until the high-powered Mercedes-AMG A35 and A45 models appear.
Interestingly, all A-class models have automatic air-con, MBUX infotainment system with two separate seven-inch screens (upgradable to twin 10.25-inchers), automatic headlights and wipers, keyless go and Merc’s Dynamic Select drive mode system.
Mercedes-Benz South Africa will release pricing and specific of the SA-spec A-Class closer to its introduction in the latter part of 2018.
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Celebrates 140 Years with an Epic Glob and the Mercedes-Benz Gla.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mercedes-Benz A-Class cost in South Africa?
Mercedes-Benz South Africa hasn't released official pricing yet, but expect the new A-Class to start around R450,000 for the base model when it launches in late 2018, with the A250 Edition 1 likely pushing closer to R600,000.
Q: Is the new Mercedes A-Class worth buying?
Absolutely, the new A-Class is a massive leap forward from its predecessor with proper luxury kit like MBUX infotainment, dual screens, and automatic everything as standard, making it the most tech-packed entry-level Merc ever.
Q: What engine options are available in the Mercedes A-Class?
The range currently offers both petrol and diesel engines, with the flagship A250 packing a punchy 165kW 2.0-litre turbo until the mental AMG A35 and A45 variants arrive.
Q: What makes the A-Class Edition 1 special?
The Edition 1 is only available for the first year of production, features exclusive yellow styling touches throughout, and is based on the sporty AMG-Line trim, making it a future collectible.
Q: What standard features does the Mercedes A-Class come with?
Every A-Class gets automatic air-con, the brilliant MBUX infotainment with twin 7-inch screens, automatic headlights and wipers, keyless go, and Mercedes' Dynamic Select drive modes as standard.
Should You Buy It?
The best premium hatchback under R650,000 in SA is definitely the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class. With expected pricing from around R450,000, you're getting genuine luxury tech that was reserved for S-Class models just a few years ago. The A250 Edition 1 will be the pick of the range at an estimated R600,000, offering future collectibility and that punchy 165kW engine. If you want to dare to be different in the premium hatch space, this new A-Class is absolutely worth the wait.
