Mercedes-Benz is due to launch its all-new A-class at the end of June. We bring you the first official info about the new baby Mercedes that will feature a number of significant improvements.

The 2004 Mercedes A-class will be available with seven four-cylinder engines, including three new diesel units. There will also be a new turbocharged 190 bhp petrol model. DaimlerChrysler says that the engine range of the new A-class will feature better performance and emission figures across the range than the current car.

According to Mercedes, the engines for the new A-class are of a "unique design" which allows installation at an angle of up to 59 degrees behind the front axle.

This makes the four-cylinder units important components in the intelligent safety concept: during a severe frontal collision they slide downwards to the rear without damaging the passenger cell.

Petrol engine range:
A150 - 1 498 cc, 94 bhp, 140 Nm
A170 - 1 699 cc, 114 bhp, 155 Nm
A200 - 2 034 cc, 134 bhp, 185 Nm
A200 Turbo - 2034 cc, 190 bhp, 280 Nm

Diesel engine range:
A160 CDI - 1991 cc, 80 bhp, 180 Nm
A180 CDI - 1991 cc, 107 bhp, 250 Nm
A200 CDI - 1991 cc 138 bhp, 300 Nm

Mercedes-Benz is introducing its new 'Autotronic' transmission on the A-class. This operates on the principle of a continuously variable transmission, in which the ratios are changed by means of a variator pulley and a steel thrust belt.

As a result the A-class accelerates with no interruption of tractive power and the engine reaches its maximum performance more quickly than with a conventional automatic transmission. The continuously variable 'Autotronic' transmission also ensures a high level of ride and noise comfort.

'Autotronic' allows the driver to choose between two transmission programs. In the 'Comfort' program the transmission keeps the engine speed at the lowest possible level, so that the A-class accelerates more gently and consumes less fuel.

In the 'Sport' program 'Autotronic' automatically recognises the individual driving style and adapts the shift strategy accordingly. A manual mode is also available in which the automatic transmission divides the ratio range into seven virtual stages, as Honda have done in the Jazz. The driver shifts the gears up or down by briefly nudging the shift lever.

Like 'Autotronic', the standard six-speed manual transmission of the A 180 CDI, A 200 CDI and A 200 TURBO is a new development. This unit is of compact aluminium construction and is said to be particularly precise in operation.

The tried-and-tested five-speed manual transmission is standard equipment for the other engine variants of the new A-class.

Wheels24 - 10 Jun 2004