The Mercedes-Benz A-Class will enter its fifth generation in 2028, offering the choice of hybrid or electric power for the first time.
As revealed by Move Electric’s sister publication Autocar, the popular German hatchback will also retain its classic hatchback styling, with Mercedes opting against transforming the model into an SUV.
Mercedes initially planned to scrap the existing A-Class last year, as it sought to streamline its internal combustion engine lineup to focus more on its more luxurious cars, which command much higher margins.
The decision follows slower-than-expected demand for electric cars, prompting Mercedes to extend the A-Class's life until at least 2028, when an entirely new generation will arrive.
So, what’s new? We’ve got all the details…
The new A-Class will move away from its existing Modular Front Architecture, which it has used since 2011, to the company’s newer Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA). Its versatility means Mercedes can build all-electric and petrol-powered versions on the same production lines.
Adopting the MMA platform is anticipated to increase the new A-Class's interior space by providing a longer wheelbase and wider tracks.
The car will feature MacPherson struts at the front, while the rear suspension is set to use a new five-link arrangement. However, it is currently uncertain whether lower-end internal combustion engine (ICE) variants will retain the torsion-beam rear setup used in the current model.
Both ICE and EV A-Class models will offer optional four-wheel drive, but Autocar reports the standard models will differ: the EV will be fitted with rear-wheel drive and the ICE with front-wheel drive.
The EV will get an 800V system with either a 58kWh LFP or 85kWh NMC battery. Mirroring today's Mercedes EVs, the new A-Class EV line-up is likely to start with a 221bhp single-motor variant, topping out with a 349bhp all-wheel-drive car.
Whether Mercedes' new entry-level EV features the dual-speed gearbox already used by the CLA saloon, CLA Shooting Brake and GLB or resorts to a simpler single-speed unit remains unclear.
The mild-hybrid models will all use the same turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, in line with current MMA models. It is expected to form the basis of at least five variants, ranging from 154bhp to 209bhp. The new A-Class will also have performance-oriented AMG variants, possibly pushing up to 500bhp in the EV.
The new A-Class will share a platform with the recently launched CLA, but will stay true to its predecessor. Despite retaining its hatchback styling, it will feature a raised driving position - a result of an elevated floor from its electric underpinnings.
The new model will not be a crossover, according to company insiders, who have dismissed recent heavy speculation that the car would adopt an MPV-like bodystyle.
This speculation was fuelled by confirmation that Audi is preparing a new A2. This car, which is set to replace both the A1 and Q2 and become Audi's new entry-level EV, will share the 'one-box' design of the original A2—a direct rival to the A-Class.
According to Autocar, the styling of the new A-Class is described as "traditional in form but modern in detailing". The intention, according to those familiar with the development programme, is to evolve rather than reinvent the hatchback's appearance.
To help disguise the higher ride height of the EV, Mercedes will look at increasing the ground clearance of all future A-Class models.
Changing the ride height would inevitably influence seating positions front and rear, but separate sources have told Autocar that doing so is a priority.
This, they say, is drawn from consistent customer feedback and shifting buyer expectations, with ease of access and better outward visibility described as key aims.
Mercedes hopes the fifth-generation A-Class will appeal not only to current, younger customers but also to older buyers who previously chose the B-Class before production ended in 2022.
Key styling elements are expected to include the latest evolution of the shark-nose front end, as seen on the new CLA and GLC. Along its flanks, the A-Class will retain framed doors, unlike the frameless ones fitted to the CLA – and it will have a sloping roofline. A conventional tailgate with an angled back window will remain.
Whether the A-Class name will be retained remains unclear. The suggestions are that the new model is sufficiently differentiated from today's A-Class that it could take a new name, possibly CSA (Compact Sports A-Class), into production, aligning it with the three-letter designations of the CLA, GLB and GLA.
The new model is likely to be produced alongside the CLA and GLA at Mercedes' plant in Kecskemét, Hungary.
