Mercedes-Benz reveals 2018 A-Class interior with dual widescreens
Mercedes-Benz has released official images of the 2018 A-Class interior, showing a new dual-screen dashboard, turbine-style vents and enhanced space for the fourth-generation hatchback.
Mercedes-Benz has released official images of the 2018 A-Class interior, offering a full look at the cabin design ahead of the car’s public debut. The fourth-generation A-Class (W177) moves away from the conservative approach of its predecessor, adopting a more ambitious layout that brings features from the marque’s larger models into its most affordable series.
The most striking element is the new dashboard, which features a pair of digital screens in a “floating” configuration. Top-spec versions will receive two 12.3-inch widescreen displays, while entry-level models get dual 7-inch units and mid-range variants combine a 7-inch instrument cluster with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. This setup, previously seen on the E-Class and S-Class, is now being offered to A-Class buyers for the first time.
Cabin design and technology upgrades
The new A-Class interior departs from the previous generation’s evolutionary changes. Mercedes-Benz has opted for a more radical approach, with the dashboard’s digital displays standing proud of the surface rather than being integrated. This gives the car a modern, high-tech appearance that sets it apart from rivals in the segment. The turbine-inspired air vents, similar to those in the E-Class Coupe, add to the premium feel, while the steering wheel is lifted directly from the latest S-Class.
Ambient LED lighting with 64 selectable colours is available, a feature usually reserved for more expensive models. The seats have also been redesigned, with three options on offer including comfort and sport variants. Buyers can specify multicontour seats with up to 20 different adjustment settings, depending on trim level.
Improved practicality and space
Mercedes-Benz has focused on making the A-Class more practical for everyday use. The boot capacity has increased by 29 litres to 370 litres, while the loading aperture is now 20 centimetres wider. The boot floor has been extended by 11.5 centimetres, improving access for larger items. The rear seats are split-folding as standard in a 60:40 configuration, with an optional 40:20:40 split and a Load Compartment Package for greater flexibility.
- Boot capacity now 370 litres
- Wider loading aperture for easier access
- Extended boot floor by 11.5 cm
- Standard 60:40 split rear seats, optional 40:20:40 split
Cabin space has also improved, with more shoulder, elbow and headroom in both rows. Mercedes-Benz claims visibility for the driver is better thanks to a 10 percent reduction in the obscured area around the windscreen and pillars. These changes address previous criticisms of the A-Class’s practicality and make the new model more competitive in the premium hatchback market.
Positioning and next steps
With the A-Class now offering features and technology formerly reserved for larger Mercedes models, the brand is aiming to attract buyers seeking a premium compact car with a high level of equipment. The interior reveal comes ahead of the full exterior unveiling and launch, which is expected in early 2018. For those interested in the evolution of Mercedes’ compact range, leaked images of the CLA compact sedan are also available to view at/first-leaked-images-of-the-mercedes-benz-cla-compact-sedan.
