Mercedes-Benz just presented to Europe its new A-class three- and five-door hatchbacks, with revised front- and rear-end styling and a sharper, more upscale interior. Unfortunately, like the old A-class, it's not headed to America.
From a fuel-efficiency standpoint, the big news is the arrival of the A160 CDI BlueEfficiency model, which features a range of subtle modifications to lower curb weight, reduce aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance, and improve mechanical efficiency.
With an 81-horsepower direct-injection diesel engine and a manual transmission, the A160 CDI BlueEfficiency consumes a modest 4.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (roughly equal to 52 mpg).
The allure of the A-class in Europe since its 1997 debut has had more to do with space-efficiency than fuel-efficiency. Although it's about two-feet shorter overall than a Volkswagen Rabbit, the A-class (thanks mostly to its tall roof), boasts the passenger space of a mid-size sedan, and five-door models offer rear-seat riders limousine-like legroom.
It's a shame such premium small cars as this won't fly in America, particularly considering the current Smart ForTwo feeding frenzy. The notion of a small Mercedes-Benz with 81 horsepower seems more than a little contrary to prestige-brand conventional wisdom. And yet, as the Toyota Prius and the Mini Cooper proved when they emerged as unlikely must-have Hollywood accessories, anything's possible.
More photos after the break, courtesy of Mercedes-Benz.
