Car Releases

2005 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Preview

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September 11, 2004

In terms of the future, the A-Class will continue as a more effective tool to lure buyers into the three-pointed star family. With increased quality, it will finally appeal to those who want the luxury and high-tech features

As intriguing as the A-Class is, there are no plans to bring it to North America. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

of a Mercedes-Benz but not necessarily the higher fuel costs and poor emissions ratings associated with larger cars. The three-door hatch will also help bring Benz closer to the premium compact hatchback market that will soon be filled with the likes of the 1-Series, and is already populated by Audi A3s and Volkswagen Golfs. For these reasons the new A-Class should be a much greater success, carrying on Benz's foray into the compact car market.

Will that foray eventually make it to America? Well, the U.S. market would probably not be as accepting than that north of the 49th parallel, being that fuel prices are much higher up there and expendable income about 30 percent lower. So don't hold your breath. As intriguing as the A-Class is, there are no plans to bring it to North America. That said the A-Class-based CST, a smaller version of the R-Class (GST) crossover, was announced to be on its way during the 2006 smart brand preview by Paul Halata, president of Mercedes-Benz of North America, at the Los Angeles auto show at the beginning of this year. Until then, the C230 Kompressor Sport Coupe will remain as Mercedes-Benz' smallest and least expensive North American entry.

Specifications (not available in North America):