Mercedes-Benz premieres all-new A-Class

Mercedes-Benz has premiered its all-new A-Class at the Geneva Motor Show. It isn’t much like the outgoing model and now looks less like an inflated Smart car. Instead it's a more conventional hatch shape with its main rivals the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series, with which it will compete on price.

The aggressive styling features LED running lights and tail lights and brash, angular lines. It’s layout is completely different to the outgoing model – it’s 487mm longer and 163mm lower.

There is a selection of petrol and diesel engines ranging from 1.6 to 2.2-litres, with power outputs from 109 to 211hp. Emissions start from 99g/km, and all engines get start/stop technology. A six-speed manual transmission is fitted as standard and a dual clutch automatic is offered as an option.

AMG, Mercedes-Benz’ performance arm, has worked on the AMG Sport styling package which adds even more beefed up styling in the form of a new grille, and larger wheels.

Mercedes-Benz says that the interior is of exceptional quality, and it has made efforts to create a trim that looks to have been carved from one piece of material. A large amount of customisation is possible in the cabin, with buyers given the choice of various upholstery options.

Safety equipment is important in the new A-Class, too – hill start assist, attention assist and collision mitigating braking are fitted as standard while automatic high-beam, blind spot warning and park assist are optional, amongst other equipment.