Bigger, Better A-Class Unwrapped

As well as being 232mm longer than the model it replaces, the new A-Class is 45mm wider. Inside, shoulder room is increased by 97mm. The extra space has made it unnecessary for the firm to offer a longer-wheelbase version, as with the outgoing model. A spokesman for Mercedes explained: "The new A-Class is a compact car on the outside, a family car on the inside and comes with the space of an MPV."

The boot floor can be lowered for added room and the 60/40-split rear seats fold flat. In this guise, the A-Class has a 1,310-litre load area. However, the five-door's carrying ability is enhanced by the optional Easy-Vario-Plus system. This enables buyers to remove the rear seat cushions and backrests, as well as the front passenger chair, to give the car a total luggage capacity of 1,955 litres.

And the A-Class's cabin is stylish, too. The dash uses soft-touch plastics, while the centre console houses an information screen displaying the car's functions - most of which can be set using steering wheel-mounted buttons.

Under the metal, the newcomer has a curved rear axle to minimise body roll in corners, while the handling is enhanced by a selective damping system. This constantly adjusts the suspension settings according to driving style and road conditions.

The full engine line-up has not been confirmed, but it's expected the existing 1.4 and 1.6-litre petrol units will continue, while the 1.9 recently axed from the range will return. All will offer 10 per cent more power and better economy.

Meanwhile, a hot three-door version is planned, with a storming new 193bhp 2.0-litre turbo. Three fresh oil-burners are likely to be offered - an 82bhp 1.6, 109bhp 1.8 and a 140bhp 2.0-litre.

The latter two, plus the turbo petrol, get a six-speed manual box as standard. And for those who don't like to change gear themselves, an all-new CVT auto transmission will be on the options list.