Revealed at the Beijing Motor Show earlier this year, the new Mercedes A-Class Saloon is set to replace the popular CLA-Class and compete against the Audi A3 Saloon. Like with the CLA, it shares similar styling to the A-Class hatchback model it is based on and that includes the incredible new interior debuted in the face-lift model.
When orders become available, initially the A-Class Saloon will only have a choice of two engines - an A200 petrol engine (1.3L four-cylinder turbo with 161 horsepower) and an A180d diesel (1.5L four-cylinder with 114 horsepower). It's likely that when the upcoming A35 and A45 AMG models are released for the latest A-Class hatchback (set to rival the Audi S3 & RS3), we'll see AMG performance options available for the A-Class Saloon shortly after. At the moment there is no option for a 4Matic variant either, however, Mercedes are planning to add this to the range at a later stage.
An important thing to note regarding optional extras - unlike previous models in the Mercedes range (excluding the A-Class), you now have to go for the 'Premium Plus' package to have a panoramic sliding sunroof fitted, which was previously available on the lesser 'Premium' package. Using the new A-Class hatchback as an indication, the price difference between these packs is a whopping £1200!
It's not necessarily a bad thing though, as the new premium plus package includes extra features including electronically adjustable memory switch front seats, 4-way lumbar support, and multi-beam LED technology seen on the latest CLS & E-Class.
The 'Premium' pack is the one to go for if you want the most important features though, you'll get the new MBUX navigation system, rear armrest, 10-inch digital instrument display, MB sound system, 10-inch Media-Display, Heated front seats, 64-colour ambient lighting, KEYLESS-GO, and illuminated door sills. It has everything you need to make the most of the new model.
Our favourite option of choice is the brand new Advanced Navigation package, working alongside the new MBUX infotainment system, drivers will be able to follow directions from the sat-nav using augmented reality. As well as automatically reading traffic signs around the area, the augmented reality system can also read house numbers!
The new A-Class Saloon is set to start from roughly £27,000 making it already more expensive than its Audi A3 Saloon rival, however with best-in-class infotainment and modern styling, this could well be the winner of the two.