Mercedes have a new limited edition of the A-Class
with quite a bit more kit packed in. We took it for a spin
Not too long ago if you wanted a big brand
with huge brag-value in a small car, you had absolutely no options to choose
from in India. With the entry of cars like the BMW 1 Series and the Mercedes
A-Class that has changed. And now things are only set to get better for the
latter have an even more updated version of their hatchback offering for Indian
consumers, albeit a limited-edition version. Enter the Edition 1 of the
A-Class.
The
Mercedes-Benz A180 CDI Edition 1 is a visual standout from every angle, inside
and out
Before you ask, in the best traditions of
limited editions that focus on creature comforts instead of performance
upgrades, changes (rather additions) to the A-Class do not include any
alteration to the powertrain or chassis. So the A continues to be powered by
the 2.2-litre inline four diesel engine as before. Transmission too remains via
the seven-speed twin-clutch automatic gearbox that sends 109 PS and 250 Nm of
torque to the car’s front wheels.
The
rear seats get cup holders while the front get electric controls and a memory
function
Needless to say, the Edition 1 feels much
the same to drive as the regular A-Class. The engine is refined and delivers
power in one smooth line, which makes driving this “little” Merc easy. Its
suspension is also well tuned to isolate passengers from road irregularities
while the car feels quite planted in a straight line at speed. It’s also quite
stable under braking. The good ride quality, however, doesn’t take its toll on
handling and the A-Class complements enthusiastic driving with great dynamic
abilities. The A-Class stops well too, courtesy the pair of ventilated discs up
front and discs at the rear working in conjunction with the usual plethora of
electronics such as ABS and stability control. There’s also traction control to
help prevent wheel spin in case you’re in the mood for a particularly
enthusiastic start.
On the outside, changes to the A include a
black stripe on the door sill with the Edition 1 lettering. You can’t miss the
black ORVMs either for they are quite distinctive and make the good-looking car
look even better. Also, if you manage to take a look at the top of the car from
your balcony, you’ll see the predominantly black roof of the car. Yes, there is
indeed a panoramic sunroof in the Edition 1.
Despite
the underpowered 2.2-litre diesel motor, the A180 CDI Edition 1 manages a
0-100kmph time of 10.6 seconds
Inside, there’s a discreet Edition 1
badging on the dash to ensure you’re reminded that you’re in a more upmarket
version of the A. But that’s not all. In this limited-edition version Mercedes
has provided electric adjustments for the passenger seat and a central arm-rest
for the rear passengers too; which were missing in the regular-spec car. The
most helpful addition, though, has to be the rear park assist camera. The
display from the rear camera is quite clear even in bright sunlight while grid
lines that show the direction in which the car will be positioned based on
steering inputs.
On the whole then the A-Class Edition 1 is
now a couple of shades better than the A, which is already a great car to begin
with. While the launch is scheduled to take place soon, expect to pay around $5,860
- $6700 more than the regular version.
