More details about the 2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class are coming to light ahead of its official premiere at the 88th Geneva International Motor Show in March 2018. This week, the German automaker's chief of compact vehicle testing Jochen Eck revealed some of the technical specifications of the upcoming vehicle.
During a test drive of the 2019 A-Class prototype, Eck told Autocar that the fourth-generation A-Class will receive two suspension sets. Both sets will come standard with a MacPherson strut at the front. The base models in the range will receive a new torsion beam setup at the rear while higher-end models will come with a revised version of the outgoing A-Class' five-point multi-link suspension.
Eck said that it was important for Mercedes-Benz to improve the ride quality of the upcoming A-Class. There have been a lot of improvements in the compact sedan class since the outgoing model was launched and these changes will allow the automaker to remain competitive with other vehicles.
The two suspension systems also help add torsional rigidity to the body structure of the 2019 A-Class. This, in turn, helps minimize noise and vibrations inside the cabin. Other changes slated for the upcoming compact sedan include electro-mechanical steering changes, thinner pillars, larger rear side windows and a longer wheelbase.
The 2019 A-Class will also be offered with nine powertrains — five gasoline models and four diesel options. The lineup is expected to include a 1.3-liter gasoline unit and a 1.5-liter diesel engine. A 340-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine will reportedly be used by the two performance models — to be called the AMG A35 and AMG A45. Electrified powertrains may also be offered at a later date.
When it comes to comfort features and technology, the 2019 A-Class will adopt the widescreen cockpit of the S-Class. The most expensive configuration will come with 10.3-inch displays as well as touch operation for the infotainment and navigation systems.
Driving aids will include Exit Assist, an active blind spot assistant, alongside an improved Park Assist feature and a 360-degree camera.
