2012 mercedes-benz a-class press release

8/2/2019 2012 Mercedes-Benz a-Class Press Release

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Geneva/Stuttgart. The heartbeat of a new generation: at the centre ofMercedes-Benz's presence at the Geneva Motor Show (8 to 18 March 2012) will be theworld premiere of the new A-Class. The company is opening up a whole new chapter inthe compact segment: markedly emotive in design, with powerful engines ranging from80 kW (109 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp), and extremely efficient, with emissions from just 99

g/CO2/km. At the same time the new model underlines that for Mercedes-Benz safety isnot a question of price - the standard specification includes, amongst other things, theradar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system.

Design and dynamism are obvious characteristics of the new A-Class even at firstglance, simply in the way it sits up to 18 centimetres closer to the road than itspredecessor. The radical new design idiom that was so enthusiastically received uponits first appearance with the "Concept A-CLASS" has been rigorously applied for theseries-production model. With their fresh interpretation of the classic two-box design,the Mercedes designers have created an emotive exterior with a pronounced sportyflair. "Applying the new dynamic style of Mercedes-Benz to the compact class was a

challenge that we thoroughly enjoyed", explains Gorden Wagener, Head of Design atMercedes-Benz. "The almost sculptural lines of the A-Class are very typical forMercedes. The feature lines, particularly along the sides of the car, then give the A-Class structure and tautness."

The objective when it came to the interior design was to complement the sporty look ofthe exterior. On top of this the car has a high-quality feel about it that is unique in thissegment, achieved both through the design idiom as such and through the choice andcombinations of the high-quality materials used. As seen in the Concept A-CLASS,there is an option allowing a smartphone to be fully integrated into the operating anddisplay system. A special app makes it possible to use the full functionality of the

iPhone, and in due course also of other smartphones, in the car.

All trim surfaces feature an electroplated finish in "silver chrome", giving them a genuinemetallic surface with "cool touch" effect. "This is just one example of the way in whichthe quality of the A-Class's interior is not defined by classic trim elements but byconsistent design and by the specific materials used", explains Hartmut Sinkwitz, Headof Interior Design. "The motto we used when designing the interior was 'pure sportiness,newly interpreted'."

Particular visual highlights include, for example, the air vents, which stand out like"sparkling jewels" (Sinkwitz), so underlining the exceptional quality of the interior. The

sporty character of the vehicle is further emphasised by the integral seats (optionalextra) in the front. The rear seat is similarly sporty in appearance and can accommodateup to three passengers.As well as the basic specification, which can be individualised with a wide range ofoptions, there is a choice of design and equipment lines that have been put togetherwith the requirements of customers in mind: "Urban", "Style" and "AMG Sport".


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The world premiere of the new A-Class (length/width/height: 4292/1780/ 1433millimetres) will take place at the Geneva Motor Show (8 to 18 March 2012). It will bemaking its way to European dealers in September 2012.

Sporty exclusivity: the A-Class Sport offers a fresh definition of dynamism

For the first time, the performance specialists from AMG were involved in thedevelopment of the compact class from a very early stage. The result is the mostdynamic version of the new model series - the A-Class Sport 'engineered by AMG', inwhich the visual affinity to the Concept A-CLASS is at its most evident - particularly interms of the new diamond grille. The A-Class Sport features exclusive 18-inch AMGlight-alloy wheels in a 5-spoke design with 235/40 R18 tyres all round and painted high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish, together with red-painted brake callipers. Thesegive an indication of the particularly dynamic driving qualities of the A 250 Sport and theA 220 CDI Sport, which are differentiated, amongst other factors, by a special AMG-developed front axle and a suspension that has been configured to match.

Hints of red on the AMG front and rear aprons also serve to emphasise the expressivepositioning of the new model. The contrast between black trim and additional accents inred continues in the interior: the contrasting decorative topstitching on the steeringwheel and seats is in this same bright shade, as are the seat belts. The ambient lightingof the instruments and the highlight rings of the air vents are similarly red.

Drive system: new petrol and diesel-powered enginesA broad range of both petrol and diesel engines has something to suit everyperformance requirement, whilst also demonstrating the current state of the art in termsof efficiency: for the first time, a Mercedes-Benz will produce emissions of just 99 g ofCO2 per kilometre.

The bandwidth of the new generation of petrol engines with a displacement of 1.6 and2.0 litres ranges from 90 kW (115 hp) in the A 180 and 115 kW (156 hp) in the A 200through to 155 kW (211 hp) in the A 250. Common to all is the combination of directinjection and exhaust gas turbocharging, a more advanced combustion process and anextended stratification range for lean-burn operation that uses fast-acting injectors forthe multiple injection of the fuel as well as on-demand multi-spark ignition. CAMTRONICis an innovation that will be celebrating its world premiere in the 1.6-litre engine:adjusting the valve lift on the intake side restricts the amount of fresh mixture used inthe partial load range, so reducing consumption.

The diesel engines also offer an impressively high level of efficiency and environmentalcompatibility, thanks to sophisticated injection technology and turbocharging. The A 180CDI offers an output of 80 kW (109 hp) and a maximum torque of up to 250 Nm, whilethe A 200 CDI has a maximum output of 100 kW (136 hp) and torque that rises to 300Nm. The A 220 CDI has a displacement of 2.2 litres, an output of 125 kW (170 hp) andtorque of 350 Nm, delivering absolutely exceptional performance in the A-Class.


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All engines in the new A-Class feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. Theengines can be combined either with the new six-speed manual transmission or, as anoption, with the 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Further highlights: suspension, aerodynamics, safety

The dynamism promised by the design and drive system is realised by the suspension.A noticeably lower centre of gravity and a new 4-link rear axle provide the basis for this;and would also make the installation of 4MATIC all-wheel drive possible. Customers canchoose between various suspension settings, among them the optional sportssuspension with Direct-Steer system. The electromechanical steering in the A-Class hasbeen completely redesigned, so that the electric motor for the power assistance nowsits directly on the steering gear in the form of a compact and extremely precise DualPinion EPS.

Its exceptional aerodynamic performance, with a new record Cd value of 0.26, puts theA-Class at the top of its class. This is further helped by the standard roof spoiler, which

hides all the unsightly aerials on the A-Class.

The A-Class is the only vehicle in its class to feature as standard a radar-based collisionwarning system with adaptive Brake Assist, which lowers the risk of rear-end collisions.The COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system gives a visual and acoustic warning toalert a possibly distracted driver to identified obstacles, and prepares Brake Assist forthe most precise braking response possible. This is initiated as soon as the driver stepsfirmly on the brake pedal.

The PRE-SAFE preventive occupant protection system is now available for the firsttime in the A-Class. This innovation, which was premiered in the S-Class in 2002, thus

makes its very first appearance in the compact class. Core features of PRE-SAFE arereversible belt tensioning, the closing of side windows and sliding sunroof in case ofcritical lateral dynamics and adjustment of the fully electric front passenger seat withmemory function to an ideal position for maximum effectiveness of the restraintsystems. PRE-SAFE is always activated in response to critical longitudinal and lateraldynamics and may also be triggered upon intervention by certain assistance functions.

The democratisation of safety also encompasses an array of other assistance systemswhich have been adopted into the A-Class from the larger model series. These include:

ATTENTION ASSIST (standard)

Brake HOLD function (standard)Hill-Start Assist (standard)DISTRONIC PLUSAdaptive Highbeam AssistBlind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping AssistSpeed Limit Assist (speed limit sign recognition)Active Parking AssistLINGUATRONIC


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Reversing camera

The Mercedes management team on the A-Class"All set for attack"

"A is for Attack: the A-Class is a clear statement of the new dynamism of the Mercedes-Benz brand. The A-Class is completely new, down to the last detail. In automotivedevelopment, it's not often you get the chance to start with a clean sheet of paper. Ourengineers and designers have made the very most of that opportunity."

Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Headof Mercedes-Benz Cars."A new Mercedes must take the lead, in technical terms, in every class of vehicle.Whether we're talking about efficiency, driving dynamics or safety: the new A-Classraises the benchmark significantly. Pure driving enjoyment, plus exemplary efficiency

from a technical perspective that is the quintessence of the A-Class."

Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG,responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development"With the new A-Class, the company is opening up a whole new chapter in the compactsegment. The A-Class is the sporty Mercedes among the compact models. It's the rightproduct at the right time - and has tremendous potential to tap into new target groupsand markets."Dr Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales andMarketing"No other car in this segment is as progressive as the A-Class. The almost sculptural

lines of the A-Class are very typical for Mercedes. The feature lines, particularly alongthe sides of the car, give the A-Class structure and tautness. This new dynamic style isalso immediately apparent in the interior."

Professor Dr h.c. Gorden Wagener, Head of Design, Mercedes-Benz Cars"AMG was involved in the development of the A-Class right from the start. That issomething very new in the compact segment. You can see evidence of this in the A-Class sports models, which bear the quality seal 'engineered by AMG'. And they live upto that promise, not only with their exceptional looks, but with their equally exceptionaldriving dynamics."

The design

The most progressive design in the compact classThe appearance of the new A-Class reflects the new Mercedes-Benz design strategy.The result is what is known as a two-box design with a distinct character of its own, asportily emotive exterior and an exceptionally high-quality feel to the interior.

Defined edges and tautly drawn surfaces mark out the exterior design of the new


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A-Class. The constant interplay between concave and convex planes creates acharacteristic play of light, particularly along the sides of the car, which contributes to itsunique appearance.Typical features of the long, sporty front are its pronounced V-shape, the separateheadlamps, the radiator grille with central Mercedes star and double slats to either side

of the star, as well as the additional air intakes on the sides. The "dropping line"apparent in the side profile dissipates towards the vehicle's front end. The design of theheadlamps, together with the configuration of the light functions within them, is a keyelement of the design concept.

The light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged insuch a way as to create the characteristic "flare effect" for the daytime running lampsand indicators. The so-called "flare" is made up of the feature line within the headlamp,the LED modules for the daytime running lamps and the bulb sets for the indicators.This signature effect gives the car its energetic look and so helps to define a new,youthful face for Mercedes.

The perfect interplay of dynamic design and excellent aerodynamics is nowhere moreapparent than in the roof, with its smooth surfaces and taut, arcing curve. The silhouettereveals smooth, flowing lines finishing in a flat edge. The roof spoiler, whichconveniently hides all the aerials, provides an extra sporty touch and gives structure tothe roof assembly. The beltline rises to the rear to form a pronounced wedge-shape.The side view is distinguished by sensuously moulded sculptural side panels anddistinctive lines. The front structural edge, above the wing, falls in what is known as a"dropping line" in a gentle arc towards the rear. The powerfully shaped shouldermuscles above the rear axle serve to emphasise the car's coup-like character. A furtherline sweeps up from just in front of the rear wheel arch, and then gently fades away. All

these lines give depth and dynamism to the car's profile. Dynamic side sill panelsprovide a final finishing touch towards the bottom of the car, enhancing the appearanceof elegant light-footedness.

The broad emphasis of the tail end is revealed in an interplay of convex-concavesurfaces and edges. The tail lights continue the line of the muscular shoulders backtowards the rear, while their horizontal orientation emphasises the car's powerfulbreadth. The light functions are provided by fibre-optic cables and LED modules. Here,too, the interaction between design and aerodynamics is very clear: the surface finish ofthe tail lights is not only an interesting design feature, but also improves the airflowaround the vehicle thanks to defined airflow break-away edges in the rear section.

The interior: excellent high-quality feel and consistent application of designThe high-quality feel and sportiness of the car are continued in the interior. Bothobjectives have been achieved with the help of a specific design idiom and through thevarious combination options possible with the high-quality materials selected. All trimelements have been given an electroplated finish, resulting in real metal surfaces with"cool touch" effect. The work has been executed with considerable care and attention todetail, so that they appear to have been moulded in one piece.


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The instrument panel is clearly divided into a wing profile-type upper section and anaesthetically influenced lower section. The resulting effect is that the upper sectionappears to be supported by a 'muscle'. The manufacturing process used for this'muscle' allows the creation of varying surface structures with soft tactile qualities. By

using special films with three-dimensional structures it is possible to create a range ofdifferent surface finishes that permit an attractive play of light. The instrument panelincorporates five round vents, the outer rings of which have a high-quality electroplatedfinish. The airflow direction is governed by an insert that is reminiscent of an aircraftturbine and reveals a meticulous attention to detail. This too has an electroplated finishin "silver chrome". The free-standing display screen features a black piano-lacquer-lookfront panel and a flush-fitting silver frame.

The instrument cluster comprises two large round instruments, each of them with asmall round instrument set within it. When at rest, the dial needles stand at 6 o'clock.The pointer inlays are generally white, although with the sportier design and equipment

lines such as Urban and AMG Sport they are in red. The dials on the sporty equipmentlines and packages are coloured silver with a chequered flag effect. The 3-spokesteering wheel comes with 12 function buttons and an electroplated bezel.

The centre dome and console, as well as the positioning of the various elements suchas the head unit, lower control panel, air conditioning operating unit, stowagecompartments, rotary push-button and armrest, reflect the findings of the ergonomicsexperts at Mercedes-Benz.

An extensive range of seat coverings, in terms of material (e.g. leather, fabric, Artico/fabric), colour combination and also geometry, provides scope for a broad range of

individualisation options. Sports seats with integrated head restraints are available, forexample, as an optional extra with all design and equipment lines. The sporty nature ofthe seats is emphasised by the opening between the upper edge of the seat backrestand the head restraint. On the back of the front seats this opening is edged with a framein "silver chrome" and, in conjunction with the Light and Sight package, can also featureambient lighting.

As well as the basic specification, which can be individualised with a wide range ofoptions, there is a choice of design and equipment lines that have been put togetherwith the requirements of customers in mind: "Urban", "Style" and "AMG Sport".

2012 mercedes-benz a-class press release

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