Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2013) - Automotive News

CAR GARAGE | Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2013) | The new dynamic style of Mercedes-Benz into the compact class was a challenge That was great fun to tackle ", explains Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz." No other car in this segment is as progressive as the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Absolutely typical for Mercedes is the sculptural shape of the A-Class. The character lines, in particular on its sides, Lend Lease the Mercedes-Benz A-Class structure and terseness. Defined edges and tautly drawn surfaces mark out the exterior design of the new A-Class. Typical features of the long, sporty front are its pronounced V-shape, the separate headlamps, radiator grille with the central Mercedes star and double slats to either side of the star, as well as the additional water intakes on the sides. The "line dropping" apparent in the side profile dissipates towards the vehicle's front end. The design of the headlamps, together with the configuration of the light functions within them, are a key element of the design concept.

The perfect interplay of dynamic design and excellent aerodynamics is nowhere more apparent than in the roof, with its smooth surfaces and a link, arcing curve. The silhouette reveals smooth, flowing lines in a flat edge finishing. The side view is distinguished by sensuously sculptural molded side panels and crisp lines. The powerfully-shaped shoulder muscles above the rear axle serving to emphasise the car's coupé-like character. Side sill panels Dynamic Provide a final finishing touch towards the bottom of the car, enhancing the appearance of elegant light-footedness.

The new four-cylinder models from Mercedes-Benz occupy a leading position by virtue of Their performance, high efficiency and very low emissions. They impress with Their smooth, superior power delivery and offer customers at the highest level of refinement," says Professor Dr Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member Responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. The line-up also includes seven airbags as standard and the Mercedes automatic emergency call system.

The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class has passed the brand's rigorous program of crash tests. This includes not only impact some 30 different configurations, the which are laid down as requirements for safety and international type approval ratings, but also nine proprietary crash tests, Such as the roof-drop test or the pole impact test, developed by the brand Itself. The bodyshell structure provides the basis for the high standard of passive safety, both in terms of material - the Proportion of high-strength and ultra-high-strength sheet steel stands at 67 percent - and with regard to its structural design. Key features of the front-end structure are the systematic implementation of an available length of 435 millimeters crash, load distribution over Several planes, the new bulkhead and floor concept and the subframe as a deformation element.

A total of three longitudinal member planes - consisting of the straight front longitudinal members, a second, upper plane attached to the front end consisting of extruded aluminum box sections and a third plane at the bottom in front of the subframe - allow impact energy to be reduced in a controlled manner. The subframe provides the torque support for the transverse engine / transmission block and serves to attach the components for the front axle and steering. A plastic wedge crash the which is fitted at the rear of the front wheel arches helps to Ensure That the wheels do not slide under the front doors in the event of a high-impact crashes, irrespective of the turning angles. The continuous floor structure consists of a total of four straight longitudinal members. The tunnel roof reinforcements at the front and rear combine with the tunnel closed to Provide a profile further supporting the front end.