The Mercedes A-Class Hatchback May Be Gone, But India Could Get Its Sedan Version

• Could come with the latest Mercedes MBUX infotainment system.
• Could share 2.0-litre BS6 engines with the CLA sedan and GLA SUV.
• Likely to be brought in via the CKD route and assembled in Mercedes’ Chakan facility.
• Prices are expected to start from Rs 35 lakh.

According to a news report, Mercedes-Benz will exhibit the A-Class sedan at Auto Expo 2020. The new sedan could be launched later this year, slotting under the CLA four-door coupe. Expect it to demand a premium over the recently discontinued A-Class hatchback -- upwards of Rs 35 lakh. Once launched, the A-Class sedan will lock horns with the Audi A3 sedan.

The A-Class is likely to be powered by 2.0-litre BS6 petrol and diesel engines. It could share engines, trim bits, and gadgetry with the upcoming GLA SUV and CLA coupe. Knocked-down kits of the sedan will be assembled at Mercedes’ Chakan facility.

Although pricey hatchbacks are popular in Europe, sedans and SUVs rule the rest of the world. That’s why Mercedes added a boot to the smallest car in its lineup. The front fascia features curved surfaces, soft lines, and minimalist grille and air inlets. The headlamps are larger wraparound units. In the profile, the sedan’s roofline is more upright. While the CLA’s sloping coupe roof eats into cabin space, the A-Class sedan is a proper five-seater.

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Inside, the most evident change is the dual-screen layout. A long panoramic touchscreen floats over the dashboard. Half of it is the driver’s instrumentation display, and the other half is for infotainment. Turbine-shaped air vents sit below the screen. The overall quality and feel of materials is up a few notches from the last A-Class we had in India.

The A-Class sedan is likely to offer better utility than the hatchback. Although it is likely to be priced higher than the hatch, it will also be more plush and modern. This baby Mercedes has the makings of a user-friendly daily driver for Indian roads. But will you buy one over a Skoda Superb or Honda Accord or an Audi Q3?

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