Mercedes Benz A-Class for India: Here's what it looks like!

Patented images of the next-generation Mercedes Benz A-Class have surfaced on the internet and this could very well be the model that will reach Indian shores once launched in international markets.

Unlike the A-Class concept which Mercedes-Benz showcased at the 2011 Shanghai Auto Show, the new images show the ‘near-production’ model with 5 doors.

The upcoming A Class has a thick horizontal front grille and large logo at the centre as seen in the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class. The side profile reveals the car’s uncluttered design lines with an aerodynamically contoured roofline and flat shoulder lines. Also read: Mercedes-Benz A- and B-Class compact cars to roll out in India by 2013

The rear of the A-Class boasts large tail lamps that are swept sideways. But when compared with the A-Class concept, the tail lamps of the production model are small. The rear windscreen is mounted high and sports a wiper as well.

The roof spoiler adds a sporty touch to the small car. Overall, the new A-Class is beautiful and well-designed with proportionate dimensions that are ages ahead of its previous generation model.

The new A-Class will be powered by a new range of turbo-charged 4-cylinder petrol engines mated to a dual-clutch transmission developed in house by Mercedes-Benz. The engine on offer is the top of the line, 2.0 litre turbo petrol that churns out a huge 210 bhp of peak power. The engines are to be mounted transversely to reduce the front overhang of the small car.

The A-Class concept showcased at the Shanghai Auto Show in China was a low-set, coupe-like, conventionally designed hatchback. The concept had the brand’s AMG inspired front grille with a large Benz logo and sharp-looking deep-set headlamps with two rows of LED lights on the top. The rear of the A-Class concept had widely swapped-out tail lamps, which accentuate the width of the car. Also read: Mercedes Benz A-Class concept unveiled at Shanghai Auto Show

The A Class concept was equipped with a radar-based collision warning system and adaptive Brake assist. According to Mercedes-Benz, the collision warning system can help prevent around 20% of the all rear-end collision and lessen the severity by 25%.

The US market will get the A-Class in 2012 and the car will lock horns with the BMW 1-series and Audi A1. Mercedes-Benz is planning to launch its next-generation A-Class and B-Class small cars in India by 2013.

With an expected price range of Rs. 15 – 20 lakh, the A Class and B Class will target a much younger buyer profile and hence, must have a sporty look and stylish features unlike the mature and conservatively styled C, E and S-Class sedans.

BMW India is also planning to launch its 1-series and MINI brand of cars in India owing to the demand for entry-level premium luxury cars with prices around Rs. 20 lakh.