A-Class [Official] Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W176)

[Wolfgang]

MB released new ads.

http://translate.google.de/translat...el_fuer_die_mercedes_a-klasse/id=4356&act=url

 

[K-A]

Oh, and the interior is disgusting! That screen looks like a cheap TomTom and I can see the body color inside the door frames from the inside. Cheap.

Whoa, Klier, nitpick much?!

 

[Giannis]

Whoa, Klier, nitpick much?!

It's not much of a nitpicking. There are many people who don't like that "step" on the dashboard, even thought the general interior design is very nice. Also that screen does look a bit like an afterthought!

As far as the visible body colour, it's there in many modern cars and it's a shame. Sadly, most of us have to compromise as the S-Class is not accessible to anyone

 

[K-A]

It's not much of a nitpicking. There are many people who don't like that "step" on the dashboard, even thought the general interior design is very nice. Also that screen does look a bit like an afterthought!

As far as the visible body colour, it's there in many modern cars and it's a shame. Sadly, most of us have to compromise as the S-Class is not accessible to anyone

I agree, and it was a joke.

Klier was defending the 6 GC's bad fit/finish in the exposing the panel gap area, in the other thread, and I found where he knocked the (much cheaper) A Class for the same thing (though I feel where you see it on the 6 GC is even much more of an eyesore), proving that he'll overlook such issues if it's within the roundel badge.

I think it's unacceptable from any Luxury Car, personally! Even Chevy are covering theirs up with more refined plastic these days.

 

[Giannis]

I agree, and it was a joke.

Klier was defending the 6 GC's bad fit/finish in the exposing the panel gap area, in the other thread, and I found where he knocked the (much cheaper) A Class for the same thing (though I feel where you see it on the 6 GC is even much more of an eyesore), proving that he'll overlook such issues if it's within the roundel badge.

I think it's unacceptable from any Luxury Car, personally! Even Chevy are covering theirs up with more refined plastic these days.

Leaving the 6GC and those Chevys you get in the States aside, and then focusing on the A, I have to say that somehow I feel that the previous generation had an interior of a bit better fit and finish. It may not be that sporty or fresh, but it was very hard for me to find more than a couple of details that bothered me!

 

[K-A]

Leaving the 6GC and those Chevys you get in the States aside, and then focusing on the A, I have to say that somehow I feel that the previous generation had an interior of a bit better fit and finish. It may not be that sporty or fresh, but it was very hard for me to find more than a couple of details that bothered me!

That makes sense. Lots of new M-B's have some questionable interior materials, though fit and finish has mostly been brought up a lot over the previous generations. The A-Class for some reason seems to get quite a few reviewers criticizing its fit and finish though.

 

[Zafiro]

I got an VIP invitation from Mercedes to go and see the new A-class 13th September
Food included LOL.

 

[Wolfgang]

^ Maybe you have a chance to test the Active Parking Assist then?

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[Wolfgang]

Aerodynamics: Saving fuel the aerodynamic way

With a drag coefficient (Cd) value of 0.27, the aerodynamic experts at Mercedes-Benz succeeded in creating another masterpiece with the A-Class. And the A 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition due to follow later is even able to exceed this record for hatchback vehicles: thanks to a number of aerodynamic enhancements, this beacon of efficiency achieves a Cd value of 0.26.

Countless flow simulation studies on the computer and a great deal of fine tuning in the wind tunnel resulted in a clear goal: to enhance the basic shape of the A-Class design further, with a view to achieving an exceptional drag coefficient. This is no easy task, particularly for a hatchback model with a short rear overhang. But an improvement in the Cd value of just one hundredth will reduce fuel consumption by one tenth of a litre per 100 km when driving on the motorway at approx. 120 km/h. Based on NEDC figures, this corresponds to a CO2 reduction of one gram per kilometre.

With a Cd value of 0.27 and a frontal area of 2.20 m2, the drag area (CdA) is less than 0.6 m2 – a benchmark figure for hatchback vehicles in this segment.

The detailed work behind this development is highlighted by the following examples:

• The distinctive side spoilers next to the rear window ("finlets") help to create a run-on design which significantly reduces the disruptive longitudinal vortices generated at the D-pillars.
• Flow losses at the front wheel arches have been reduced substantially with the aid of patented serrated wheel spoilers at front and rear, slots in the wheel arches and optimised hub caps. These measures result in improved wind flow around the wheel arches.
• The A-Class has an adjustable radiator shutter, already familiar in larger model series. The louvres behind the radiator grille are for the most part closed when there is no specific need for cooling air.
• The underbody has also been aerodynamically enhanced: the main floor panel features extensive cladding up to the rear wheel arch, followed by additional cladding of the rear axle. The rear silencer has also undergone aerodynamic optimisation.
• The new A-Class features exterior mirrors which have been optimised in terms of a number of details and already proven their excellent aerodynamic properties in large model series such as the S, E and C-Class, and also the B-Class. The position of the exterior mirror is adjusted in respect of the A-pillar in such a way that the airflow is directed along the side window without any significant interference or disruption.

The exterior mirrors and the low stepped height of the A-pillars reflect the fact that the work conducted in the wind tunnel was not just about optimising the flow conditions, but also about minimising wind noise. And in addition to aerodynamics and aeroacoustics, there is often another discipline to consider: in terms of water management too, the flow around the exterior mirrors and the A-pillars also has to be optimised in the wind tunnel in order to guarantee good visibility is maintained towards the rear and at the sides during wet weather.

More than with previous model series, in the case of the A-Class the aerodynamics experts at Mercedes-Benz made particular use of flow simulation (CFD, Computational Fluid Dynamics): each component was first improved over several cycles using flow simulation before having its aerodynamic properties put to the test in the wind tunnel.

Digital flow simulation is based on so-called finite volumes as a mathematical model. A volume net is formed from around 60 million hexahedrons, or cubes, and is based around the CAD data of the new A-Class. This enables the driving cycle to be simulated over a free area in a large virtual wind tunnel. The Mercedes engineers generate the airflow using a predetermined turbulence level.

Setting new standards in terms of Cd value and consumption: BlueEFFICIENCY Edition

Due to follow later is the A 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition boasting even better consumption levels. It is among the most efficient vehicles of its class: thanks to a series of additional aerodynamic optimisation measures, it has been possible to reduce its Cd value from 0.27 (standard model) to 0.26.
These measures include:

• partially covering the upper part of the radiator grille
• aerodynamically shaped spring link coverings to improve the underbody airflow at the rear axle
• lowering of the suspension by 15 mm
• Text: Source: Daimler

http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&u=http:///2012/07/die-neue-a-klasse-wir-fuhren-den-angreifer-als-a250-blueefficiency-und-211-ps-mit-350-nm/&act=url

http://mercedes-benz-blog.blogspot.com/2012/07/new-mercedes-benz-class-aerodynamics.html

Some pics to add.

"That the A-Class is best in class is not due to a single innovation, but rather the consistent implementation of many small optimization measures," says Dr. Alexander Wäschle, Mercedes-Benz A-Class aerodynamics engineer.

http://translate.google.com/transla...nzeige-mercedes-a-klasse-3585828.html&act=url

 

[Zafiro]

Just back from the swedish release of the new A-class.
With AMG package I think its a great looking little car, both outside and inside.

 

[Zafiro]

For Mercedes fans. My personal review:

Read: http://www.germancarforum.com/community/threads/mb-a-200-cdi-vs-audi-a3-2-0-tdi-vs-bmw-118dm.46749/

 

[KiwiRob]

MINI is not the case ... it's not the same segment. It's sub-compact. The debate is about compact class (Golf, Focus, Astra, A3, 1er, A-class etc etc).

The MINI Countryman is in this segment, I'm considering trading my Countryman in on an A class, I drove one today, it's a world away from the MINI in terms of quality, refinement and handling, unfortunately for BMW they compromised the Countryman by making in into a quasi SUV, when they should have just left it as a premium hatch.

 

[Mr. Mercedes]

I'd love to read a more detailed first hand review Rob, if you have the time.

 

[Zafiro]

The MINI Countryman is in this segment, I'm considering trading my Countryman in on an A class, I drove one today, it's a world away from the MINI in terms of quality, refinement and handling, unfortunately for BMW they compromised the Countryman by making in into a quasi SUV, when they should have just left it as a premium hatch.

I suggest you take the new Audi A3 for a drive. The car drives even better than the new A-class.

 

[Wolfgang]

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[KiwiRob]

I suggest you take the new Audi A3 for a drive. The car drives even better than the new A-class.

I did, the Audi drives well but it didn't drive as well IMO as the A class, I also drove the 1 Series which was better than both, where I live it snows so I have to think carefully if I want RWD, we didn't have much luck in winter with our C lass or the 3 series which replaced it. The A3 looks too much like the car it replaced and is somewhat boring I think. The A class has a fantastic drving position, I immediately felt at home, the steering was direct and nicely weighted, the ride was firm, it was an AMG model I drove, but didn't crash over potholes like my Countryman does, the interior is very good, significantly better in all respects to the Countryman and easily up ther with the A3 and 1 Series, the seats are nicer than both. My kids also liked the look of the A class. I then went and drove a Volvo V40 this in my opinion is the best of all the small premium hatches, I priced up a T3 R Design but unfortunately for Volvo in Norway they want more for this car than either of the other 3 manufacturers want for similar specced vehicles. If the price had been the same as the rest I would have opted for the V40, now I'm deciding between the 1 series and A class.

 

[Zafiro]

I did, the Audi drives well but it didn't drive as well IMO as the A class, I also drove the 1 Series which was better than both, where I live it snows so I have to think carefully if I want RWD, we didn't have much luck in winter with our C lass or the 3 series which replaced it. The A3 looks too much like the car it replaced and is somewhat boring I think. The A class has a fantastic drving position, I immediately felt at home, the steering was direct and nicely weighted, the ride was firm, it was an AMG model I drove, but didn't crash over potholes like my Countryman does, the interior is very good, significantly better in all respects to the Countryman and easily up ther with the A3 and 1 Series, the seats are nicer than both. My kids also liked the look of the A class. I then went and drove a Volvo V40 this in my opinion is the best of all the small premium hatches, I priced up a T3 R Design but unfortunately for Volvo in Norway they want more for this car than either of the other 3 manufacturers want for similar specced vehicles. If the price had been the same as the rest I would have opted for the V40, now I'm deciding between the 1 series and A class.

Oh so you prefer A-class over A3 from driving point of view?
Personally I was impressed by the A3 moreso than A-class. My main concern with A-class is the steering. I agree that A3 is kinda boring from design point of view.

http://www.germancarforum.com/community/threads/mb-a-200-cdi-vs-audi-a3-2-0-tdi-vs-bmw-118dm.46749/

 

[Wolfgang]

An A-Class navigation update from Nokia.

Mercedes A-Class navigation to feature NAVTEQ® Map data

Nokia today announced that its Location & Commerce business is supplying global NAVTEQ® Maps and content to Mercedes to enable navigation systems in the full A-Class range. A-Class drivers will be able to experience a variety of additional new features including visual 3D imagery, traffic data, driver alerts and speed limits.

Drivers can easily navigate through unfamiliar cities using visual content such as 3D City Models and 3D Landmarks by taking advantage of features like Extended Lanes, which guide drivers to the correct lane at complex junctions.

Mercedes drivers can choose from three different systems - a premium high-end model, an entry level navigation and a mobile version. All three are powered by the NAVTEQ® Map data used over 100 million times a day in a wide variety of devices, services and apps around the world to get people to where they need to go. This includes over 24 million in-vehicle navigation systems that span commercial and personal vehicles. NAVTEQ® Map data is the content heart of the Nokia Location Platform.

"Stretching back to the mid 1990s, our relationship with Mercedes remains strong as we continue to innovate and develop content and services to revolutionise the location experience. This is yet another indication of our reputation and leadership in the automotive sector where we offer a core solution to many leading brands," said Bruno Bourguet, Senior Vice President Sales and Business Development, Nokia Location & Commerce.

Nokia will be exhibiting at the Mondial de l'Automobile show in Paris at Hall 3, booth #213

Nokia Location & Commerce demonstrates its 'location' leadership in the global automotive space via numerous OEM collaborations and comprehensive partner demonstrations at Mondial de l'Automobile. Delivering on the needs of the ever-connected consumer has long been a focus of the in-vehicle industry. The ability of Nokia L&C to serve the expectations of today's 'connected driver' via fluid location-based products and services whether at home, walking in the city or in the car will be on full display and showcased to show how both customers and consumers alike benefit from smarter data and multi-screen, multi-modal choices.

About Nokia's Location & Commerce Business

Nokia is a global leader in mobile communications whose products have become an integral part of the lives of people around the world. The company's Location & Commerce business, including NAVTEQ® Maps products, the Nokia Location Platform as well as Nokia Maps, aims to build and monetize unique location experiences for great mobile products, as well as the navigation industry, the automotive market and government and business solutions. Begin to explore our capabilities at www.maps.nokia.com.

http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mercedes-a-class-navigation-to-feature-navteq-map-data-171504821.html

 

[Wolfgang]

Exclusive – Mercedes Benz India begins testing the new A Class

Mercedes Benz India revealed earlier this year that it is studying the feasibility of many derivatives on the MFA Platform such as a sports tourer, a compact sedan and an SUV. The information in the public domain is that the A Class hatchback is scheduled to land sometime in 2013.

Today Indian Autos Blog can reveal that an example of the A Class has landed in India for testing purposes. Sporting a petrol engine with a paddle-shifter-equipped semi-automatic transmission, the MH14-registered white test mule, most likely strapped with a petrol engine (camouflaged with surgical tape) was spotted near Kothrud, Pune, by our regular reader.

Sources said that Mercedes Benz India had planned the A Class’s launch around July 2013. Considering that testing has already started, and Mercedes Benz only has to make adjustments to the chassis and the powertrain to deem it India-ready, the launch can be advanced to fall prior to this tentative date.

Mercedes may be adopting the B Class’ CBU-first, assembly-later strategy. The account maybe opened with a low-spec petrol engine, followed by diesel variants. If the price range of the B Class is a guideline, one can expect MB India to position the smaller A Class between 15-20 lakh rupees.

Mercedes A Class India testing program begins - Exclusive

 

[Mr. Mercedes]

Wolfgang, I've got a couple of questions that you may be able to answer:
1. Command Online - Have the compatability issues with the iPhone been sorted out on the A-class? In Australia it doesn't work with the Iphone 4 or 4S, nor the Samsung Galaxy.
2. Are there any updates for the 2013 models, like a colour screen in the central display? We are getting January build vehicles in Australia in March.