Mercedes A-Class AMG spied

Text: Mark Griffiths / Photos: Automedia

24th August 2011

The new Mercedes A-Class AMG is taking shape. These are the latest spy shots of the new flagship, caught testing under heavy camouflage in Germany. The prototype – likely to be dubbed the A25 AMG – is being benchmarked against the Volkswagen Golf R, with performance taking a serious priority.

Looking very similar to previous A-Class prototypes testing in Germany, the AMG variant is distinguished by bigger air intakes at the front, high-performance brakes, huge AMG alloy wheels and a sporty dual exhaust system.

While the concept A-Class was in sleek three-door form, our spy shots clearly show a more practical five-door version, suggesting that both bodystyles will be offered. The aggressive front end features headlights that feature LED running lights, and a deep front grille. In profile, a truncated rear, long bonnet and roof spoiler give it a dynamic stance and a look reminiscent of its biggest rival, the BMW 1-Series.
 
In standard trim, the new A-Class will sport a turbocharged and direct injected 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with about 154bhp on tap, and an efficient 1.8-litre diesel available in two different states of tune. The AMG variant is expected to feature a highly tuned 2.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol that should develop around 350bhp to be a true BMW 1-Series M Coupe and Audi RS3 rival.

With the standard A-Class likely to make its world debut at next months Frankfurt Motor Show, expect the AMG variant to follow early next year.