Mercedes-Benz is Planning a BMW 1-Series Competitor That May be Built on a MINI Platform
It was reported earlier this week, that Mercedes-Benz was thinking about killing the current A-Class, but now there are rumors that Mercedes may be thinking about building a 1-Series and A3 competitor. Additionally the automaker may be in talks with BMW about using the current MINI platform for the upcoming car.
According to Auto Bild
Earlier this month Mercedes-Benz took the covers off its facelited B-Class range and now we have first details about the 2009 model year update for the smaller A-Class. Due for release in the second half of the year, the new A-Class gets a slightly revised look, a revamped interior and a cleaner engine range.
New to range is fuel saving engine stop-start technology for the volume A150 and A170 models as well as the addition of an ultra-frugal A150 BlueEfficiency model, which gets by on just 5.8L of petrol per 100km (40.5mpg) yet still delivers a reasonable 95hp. Other fuel saving technology include aerodynamic enhancements, low rolling resistant tires and an extensive weight saving program. The most economic model remains the 82hp A160 CDI, which consumes just 4.5L of diesel per 100km (52mpg).
The cabin gets new material choices for the seats and door linings, plus buyers can also opt for brushed aluminum or wooden trim.
Key visual differences between the 2009 model and its predecessor include new shape headlights, wraparound taillights, and revised bumpers sporting larger air-intakes. The range also features several new grille designs depending on whether the car is equipped with either Avantgarde or Elegance specifications.
Stuttgart -- For the new-generation Mercedes-Benz A and B-Class vehicles, Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH is now offering the portable navigation system StreetPilot III, which saves the driver unnecessary detours and the resulting extra fuel consumption. The particular strengths of the tailored original accessory retrofit solution include perfect coordination with the new models, clear language output, and the high-definition TFT colour monitor in a new design.
StreetPilot III portable navigation system for Mercedes-Benz A-Class and B-Classss