Not many changes to the outside, just some light graphic changes as far as I can see.
FL B-class also is launched.
FIRST LOOK AT THE A& B-CLASS FACELIFT
The preliminary view of the facelift of the A & B-Class revealed more changes than expected: in addition to the change in the lights and new front bumper, there are also numerous technical changes – up to the use of 48 volt technology. But "to the sheet metal" was not gone, which was not necessary.
New front design with dots, new lights
The facelift of the A- and B-Class is quite extensive than we had initially expected. At the preliminary presentation of the models including the two AMG variants of the A-Class, there was not only a completely new vehicle front with new front and rear lights as well as a new front bumper, but also many changes in the interior including changes under the bonnet (which now basically receives power domes). The A 35 4MATIC also receives the "AMG-specific grille". Also new are numerous new rim sets of the various variants up to 19 inches (for A- and B-Class).
MBUX 7 with new steering wheel generation
In the interior, the first thing that stands out is the use of the new steering wheel generation in standard nappa leather, whereby the MBUX is updated to version 7 at the same time. According to the new software function, as expected, the touchpad is omitted, where an additional storage in the center console can be found as a replacement. Previously mounted buttons in the console can be rearranged, some further forward, in the AMG models the buttons move into the AMG steering wheel buttons that will be standard in the future. A fingerprint sensor will be available from Q1 2023. Also new is an additional USB-C port with increased charging power. For the B-Class, a heated steering wheel is now also available as an option in the AMG Line.
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Thanks to the MBUX update, the voice control reacts even more directly and is even more capable of dialogue and learning. Certain functions now also work without "Hey Mercedes", and the voice assistant can also explain vehicle functions. Also new is the tour guide, which provides travel information.
For the displays, it remains at 7 inches and 10.25 inches, with a second 10.25 inch display will be optional. The series is now a comfort seat with a new, more three-dimensional ARTICO cover. In the Line Progressive (for A-/ B-Class) there is – in addition to black and beige now "sage grey". In addition, there is a new trim part in carbon look.
The standard equipment on both models has now been significantly upgraded. For example, the model already offers a reversing camera, the USB package or the steering wheel in nappa leather. From the Progressive line onwards, LED headlights, a seat with lumbar support, the parking package and, among other things, the mirror package are available as standard – and in the B-Class also the Easy Pack tailgate. In the future, the compact model of the A- and B-Class will also offer equipment packages, as is already known from other model series.
48 volt technology with RSG
Technically, Mercedes-Benz will in future use 48-volt technology for mild hybrids in the petrol variants, which will also benefit the A 35 4MATIC with its additional boost. While the A 45 4MATIC+ model will be omitted in the future, there will be no technical changes to the A 45 S 4MATIC+ and accordingly no changes to the engine itself. In short: while the A 35 4MATIC+ receives an additional RSG, the A 45 S 4MATIC+ has to do without it. The belt-driven 10 kW starter generator (RSG) not only ensures a quieter start, but also enables a smoother ride and sailing with the combustion engine switched off. During braking and thrust operations, the RSG also recuperates.
More power for the plug-in hybrid in the A- and B-Class
The plug-in hybrid technology in the A- and B-Class will also receive an update. For this purpose, the high-voltage battery has been improved, which has an effect on a higher usable energy content. In addition, the electric motor has 5 kW more power and thus has 80 kW. When charging, the battery can be charged in series with 3.7 kW – or optionally no longer with 7.4 kW, but with 11 kW. The DC charge is still at 22 kW.
Improvement of driving assistants
With the facelift, Mercedes-Benz is also improving the Driving Assistant package. Lane Keeping Assist is now much more convenient to control by using active steering control. The latest generation of the parking package now supports longitudinal parking and offers, among other things, a 360-degree visualization with 3D images.
We have published special information about the changes to the A-Class as A 35 4MATIC and A 45 S 4MATIC+ (special model) separately. The information about the special model "AMG Street Style Edition" can be found here with us – we have prepared all the changes to the A 35 4MATIC here.