2013 Mercedes-Benz A-class
Although you can get the A180 and the A200 with a six-speed manual, the A250 can only be had with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This is unfortunate, not only because we prefer to shift for ourselves but also because the DCT brings an additional 100 or so pounds along for the ride. Nevertheless, the DCT is a nice companion in the A250, with quick, seamless shifts and a character more satisfying than that of any torque-converter automatic. This is good, because this is the only gearbox we’re likely to see in our A-class–based cars.
The gasoline engines spring from a new generation of powerplants that carry the M270 designation. The M270 and the diesel OM651 also are installed in Benz’s rear-wheel-drive models. This would have been impossible with the previous A-class, which required unique engine architecture.
In terms of driving dynamics, the lower-slung architecture of the new A-class has clear merits. It is longer, wider, and lower then before; its center of gravity is claimed to be closer to the pavement by more than 1.5 inches. All A-class models have a strut-type front suspension and a multilink rear, anti-roll bars fitted to both ends, and electrically boosted steering. The latter just may be tops in the class. It’s weighty-more so than the A3’s light rack-and it responds swiftly to inputs without being overly aggressive. Even though Benz’s CC architecture packs significantly more weight than does the Volkswagen Group’s MQB modular front-wheel-drive platform, the A-class manages to feel agile and light.
Sometimes the Snow Comes Down in June
We’ve saved discussion of the best model for last. The true enthusiast’s choice is the A250 Sport, a realization that sort of snuck up on us. We expected this version, distinguished by its “diamond” grille and red accents, to be little more than a style leader. But it didn’t take much time behind the wheel for us to see the light. The 2.0-liter four has an overboost function that delivers up to 225 hp for as long as 30 seconds. Top speed is not governed as it is in the regular A250; the A250 Sport will break the 155-mph barrier. And for audiophiles, the Sport powertrain has been programmed to provide a crackle during gearswaps and on overrun. Benz’s AMG performance subsidiary retuned the camber and reengineered the front end with different steering pieces and uprated struts. Turn-in is extremely swift, and the car is easily placed. Although it’s easy to get the tail to step out a bit, an undefeatable stability-control system is par for the course. We’re pleasantly surprised to see such a capable machine in this class from Mercedes.
The hatchback is unlikely to join the CLA and GLA here, but additional spin-offs are planned, one of which might stand a chance. Of the CLA-based wagon and convertible, we’d bet on the latter. (A three-door GLA is rumored to be under consideration, as well as a two-door version of the CLA.) There is also the wicked A45 AMG with 350 hp and all-wheel drive. It won’t make it here, but its powertrain and driveline will in the CLA and possibly the crossover. At least based on this initial experience with the A-class, we’ll take whatever Mercedes wants to send our way.
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