Mercedes-Benz is preparing to introduce an updated version of the entry-level A-Class hatchback, and a new report gives us a good idea of what to expect from it when it lands.
Set to go on sale across Europe next summer, the 2016 A-Class will benefit from a minor nip and tuck that will bring a new front fascia with a revised bumper, tweaked headlights and a redesigned radiator grille.
Out back, the CLA’s Euro-flavored sibling will gain new-look tail lamps and a more muscular-looking lower bumper. The usual assortment of new alloy wheel designs and additional paint colors will round out the exterior modifications.
Although they’re shaping up to be relatively minor, the updates are expected bring the A-Class in line with Mercedes latest design language and help it fend off competition from the thoroughly renewed BMW 1 Series, its arch enemy on the old continent, and the Audi A3.
The upgrades will be more significant under the hood, and sources close to Mercedes claim that the range-topping A 45 hot hatch (pictured) will benefit from a slight bump in power. Like the GLA 45 and the CLA 45 sold on our shores, the A 45 is currently powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that sends a whopping 355 horsepower to all four wheels via an automatic transmission.
The bump in power will be accompanied by a new name. Starting early next year, the A 45 will leave the Mercedes-Benz moniker and join the burgeoning Mercedes-AMG lineup.
Lesser A-Class models will get more efficient engines in order to comply with the strict emissions regulations that are set to come into effect across Europe in the coming years. However, Mercedes says that downsizing has its limits and it will not launch a three-cylinder engine to compete against BMW’s turbocharged 1.5-liter triple.
Additional details about the 2016 Mercedes-Benz A-Class will emerge over the coming months. Nothing is official at this point, but it’s not too far-fetched to imagine that the U.S.-spec CLA will undergo roughly the same visual updates – and, more importantly, get the same bump in power – shortly after the updated A is introduced.
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