The German automaker is preparing an all-new A-class, and we get some insight into what it will look like, courtesy of the Concept A. Falling in line with the rest of the family, the squared off nose is aggressive and wears the Tri-Star emblem proudly. From the side, the Concept A shows hints of the CLS and even the R-Class. Most of the swoopy lines in the concept version are expected to make it to the production A- Class.

Underneath the sheetmetal, the Concept A-Class rides on a new front-wheel drive platform codenamed MFA, which is believed to stand for “Mercedes Front-wheel-drive Architecture”. The prototype is powered by a four cylinder gasoline unit from Mercedes’ new M270 engine series that combines both direct-injection and turbocharging technology. The Concept A-Class is equipped with the 2.0-litre variant of the new engine developing 210 hp, which is similar to the Golf GTI’s unit. Power is transferred to the front wheels through Mercedes-Benz' new dual clutch transmission. Other technical highlights include a radar based collision detection system, which is the first of its kind in this segment. When paired with Adaptive Brake Assist, it can help lower the risk of having someone rear end your 2012 A-Class.

On the inside, the concept car has individual seating for four and an overly futuristic styling, which of course, will not pass into production. However, certain design elements such as the shape of the air-vents, steering wheel and instruments will inspire the road-going model, which will most likely be offered with a five seat layout.

The concept will make its debut at the 2011 Shanghai Auto Show.

2012 a class and 6 more...

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