Mercedes-Benz is launching a
celebratory edition of its strikingly beautiful A-Class. Are we excited?
Anniversaries call for celebrations, and
that’s what Mercedes-Benz is doing with its A-Class. No, the German car maker
isn’t organising an Oktoberfest to celebrate a year of selling its
svelte-looking hatchback, but it is offering additional features in a limited
edition variant called the Edition 1. The A-Class shook the belief that luxury
hatchbacks aren’t meant for a price-sensitive market like India last year. It
has contributed well to Merc’s sales numbers, bringing in younger buyers who
aspire to have a three-pointed star in their garage without breaking the bank.
You get the Edition 1 package only on the diesel version, the A 180 CDI though.
The
Mercedes-Benz A180 CDI Edition 1 is a visual standout from every angle, inside
and out
There are no mechanical changes except for
the slightly raised suspension to improve ground clearance, based on customer
feedback. Hence the Edition 1 doesn’t feel different to drive, powered by the
same 2.2-litre inline four-cylinder diesel engine. Mercedes-Benz could have
used the opportunity to offer a sports package with more go to match the car’s
show, since its power and torque figures at 107bhp and 250Nm are a bit
underwhelming. The A-Class certainly looks the part of a hot hatch, and a few
more horses would definitely be welcome.
The
rear seats get cup holders while the front get electric controls and a memory
function
The car is best enjoyed in Sport mode where
shifts from the 7-speed DCT are quicker and revs are held all the way to the
redline. The paddle shifters are a delight, and upshifts are quick but I wish
downshifts were too. Power delivery is smooth with not much turbo lag and the
engine does feel like a Mercedes-Benz motor in its refinement. The steering
wheel feels nice to hold – it offered good feedback around the hills and
despite the slightly raised suspension, the car felt as sporty to chuck around.
External
changes include the black-wing ORVMs and Edition 1 decals
Minor detailing like wing mirrors finished
in gloss black and Edition 1 decals differentiate this trim from the regular
car. The 17-inch alloys are different but tyre sizes remain same. The front
passenger seat now gets electric controls and a memory function, while the rear
bench gets an arm rest with cup holders. Seats are sporty and supportive, and a
‘panoramic’ sunroof tries to offer a roomier feel to the cabin. The Edition 1
also gets a reverse parking camera that is a welcome addition.
Despite
the underpowered 2.2-litre diesel motor, the A180 CDI Edition 1 manages a
0-100kmph time of 10.6 seconds
The A-Class continues to be the most
attractive looking car in its segment, and the added features make the deal
even sweeter, though we suspect the Edition 1 will command a premium over the
regular trim.
