Mercedes has unveiled the new Concept A-class, which previews the next production A-class.
 
The Concept A-class is powered by a BlueEFFICIENCY turbocharged 2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 210bhp. That power is transmitted to the front wheels via a dual clutch transmission, and makes the concept nearly twice as powerful as any current A-class.
 
It also has a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist, a first for a car of this size. The system gives the driver a visual and acoustic warning and prepares a precise braking response to be applied when the driver hits the pedal.
 
The styling of the Concept A-class was previewed by the F800 Style, which appeared at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, and combines defined edges with stylish body surfaces. This helps the car to look much more dynamic than previous A-classes and should help the third-generation car be more competitive in the small premium segment.
 
The profile is dominated by two strong lines which help to enhance the car’s coupe-like character and to give it a much more purposeful appearance than the car it replaces.
 
Other exterior styling features are high performance LED headlights and fibre optic daytime running lights which continue the ‘starry sky’ theme seen on the grille and wheels.
 
The interior is heavily influenced by the aircraft business, with a wing-shaped dashboard covered in a translucent, stretchable fabric. The dashboard air vents are reminiscent of jet engines and the centre console is described by Mercedes as a ‘modern flight panel’.
 
The Concept A-class has full smartphone integration with major functions displayed as ‘apps’ on the main display and operated via the rotary/push control.
 
The Mercedes-Benz Concept A-class will be on show at this month’s Shanghai Auto Show. The new A-class it influences is likely to go on sale in 2012, and will rival the Audi A3, BMW 1-series and VW Golf; as a result, expect prices to start at around £18,000, a small hike over the outgoing car.

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