The visual changes will be minor at best. Official pictures are not available, but sources close to Mercedes have hinted the A will get revised headlights, a redesigned grille, new bumpers on both ends and new-look LED tail lamps.
Buyers will have more options to choose from, including LED ambient lighting, a long list of comfort- and safety-oriented electronic driving aids and a wi-fi hotspot, a first in the nameplate’s history. The A will also benefit from the latest generation of Mercedes’ infotainment system.
Generally speaking, the current A-Class’ gasoline- and diesel-burning engines will be carried over to the updated model with only small modifications. However, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-banger that powers the range-topping A45 AMG will be tuned to pump out at least 375 horsepower, a generous 20-pony increase over the current model. A seven-speed automatic transmission will send power to all four wheels via a sport-tuned version of Mercedes’ 4Matic system.
The updated Mercedes-Benz A-Class will be introduced online over the summer, and it will greet the public for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show that will open its doors next September. Mercedes is still not planning on selling the A-Class on our shores, where the market for premium hatchbacks is small at best, but the 375-horsepower turbo four will most likely find its way under the hood of Mercedes-AMG’s CLA 45 and GLA 45 in time for the 2016 model year.
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