Mercedes will transform the next-generation Mercedes A-Class into a sporty rival for the likes of the Mini Cooper, Audi Al and BMW 1 Series, ready for sale late next year. Previewed at the Shanghai show as the Concept A, the new A-Class is tipped to capture much of that car's (lowing sheet metal, distinctive detailing and sporty stance. Under die skin, it's said to feature an all-new platform, known as the MFA, with strut front suspension and a multilink rear axle, all dedicated Mercedes engineering. Emphasis is also to be placed on the quality of the interior, so plastics, trim and switchgear are borrowed from the C-Class. Centre-illuminated dials and air vents provide a theme in the concept, apparently a stylistic nod to glowing jet-engine afterburners. Power for the new A-Class family will initially come from Mercedes' existing range of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. The core unit will be a 2.0-litre petrol mill, which the Concept A previews in 152kW hot-hatch form. It will be mated to a double-clutch gearbox, a replacement for the CVT used in existing A and B-Class models. Cooking versions of the new car are likely to make closer to 115kW Also mooted is a 240kWAMG hot-hatch powered by a 2.0-litre turbo and employing four-wheel drive. Due for launch in 2013, it will do battle with the Audi S3.
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