Mercedes-Benz have recently launched two new models onto the Irish market, the A-Class and CLS Coupé, both of which, they hope will bring additional 182 registrations.
In their separate ways, the a-class and CLS personify the length that Mercedes-Benz has travelled since embarking on its ambitious new product offensive - its intention being to capture new segments of the market and a more youthful customer base.
Described as a model that ‘redefines luxury in the compact class’, the new a-class retains all of its youthful appeal whilst being endowed with characteristics more grown-up than those of its predecessor.
Successful in attracting a distinctly younger fan base, the new a-class is noticeably larger than before with a sloping bonnet and lower, more angular headlights and grille with inset star giving it a more energetic look.
Inside, it boasts more head, shoulder and elbow space with easier access to the back seat and a luggage compartment 29 litres larger than previously. A talking point will be its ultra-modern new Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX ) multimedia and infotainment system.
Housed within its avant-garde, split-level dashboard, the MBUX comprises a control-and-display unit that uses artificial intelligence to learn and memorise instructions.
Said to be a segment-leading feature, MBUX will reduce driver distraction whilst being a USP to which younger drivers will be drawn. At its heart is a high-resolution, touch-screen embodying a navigation display with augmented reality technology, and intelligent voice control with natural speech recognition.
Adding authority to his claim that a-class ‘raises the bar’ in the compact segment, Mercedes-Benz sales manager, Ciaran Allen, points to the fact that its other features include items derived from the S-Class and other models higher up the model chain.
Typically, these include multi-functional steering wheel, climate control seats with massage and multi-contour functions.
Elements like lane keeping, adaptive braking, and various distance control and driver assist systems are features with which Mercedes-Benz owners are already familiar.
Supported by competitive finance plans, and an expanded dealer network, the a-class comes on the market with three different design lines – style, progressive and AMG.
Initial models to arrive are the A180d Automatic, starting at €31,600 and the A200 petrol starting at €34,235. The entry A160 Petrol and A160d will arrive later. Prices, expected to guide around €30,000, will be confirmed closer to the launch date.
New engines comprises two 4-cylinder petrol options of 1.4-litre and 2.0-litre capacity and a new 1.5-litre diesel with power outputs in the 116 to 224hp range initially with higher performance AMG versions following. Transmissions will be a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic.
Contact Micheal Moores Mercedes- Benz on (090 ) 6403000 for more details on the Mercedes range.
