Mercedes has launched the next level of driving performance after the AMG A 35 4MATIC “Hot Hatch”.
The A 35 4MATIC Sedan (combined fuel consumption 7.3-7.2 l/100km; combined CO2 emissions 167-164 g/km) is the second model from Mercedes-AMG based on the new compact car platform and the first choice for customers looking for sportiness and comfort typical of the brand, a press release states.
The driving dynamics of the sedan model are ensured by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine with an output of 225kW (306 hp), the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G dual-clutch transmission, the AMG suspension and the variable AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
The new sedan expands the current AMG model range by an additional attractive entry-level model to appeal to young people looking for a high level of performance and a comfortable amount of space for passengers and luggage. It has an acceleration time of 4.8 seconds for 0-100 km/h and a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).
"Following the very successful launch of the hatchback model, things are moving along dynamically in the compact class segment at AMG. Sport saloons are the origin of Mercedes-AMG and part of the brand's core. With our new A 35, we are transporting this history into modern times in the form of a very attractive model that serves as a point of entry into the world of AMG and also appeals to new customer groups," said Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG.
In the interior, the new MBUX multimedia system combines an intuitive operating structure with sporty design. MBUX creates an even closer connection between the vehicle, driver and passengers with appealing presentations underlining the control structure and 3D graphics. Visually, the two displays under one shared glass cover blend into a widescreen cockpit consequently emphasising the horizontal orientation of the interior design.
And, the trailblazing voice control activated with the words "Hey Mercedes" is also on-board. Thanks to artificial intelligence, MBUX recognises and understands nearly all sentences from the fields of infotainment and vehicle operation, even if they are expressed indirectly. In addition, with the new optional MBUX interior assistant, select multimedia functions can be operated hands-free such as the reading light.
Customers can choose between three AMG display styles for the instrument cluster: Classic, Sport and Progressive.
The touchscreen multimedia display emphasises the vehicle’s dynamic character with individual AMG displays such as visualisation of the driving programmes, AMG TRACK PACE and telemetry data. Another new feature is the AMG centre console with touchpad and additional switches for operating ESP, manual transmission mode and adaptive adjustable damping (optional).
The new generation AMG steering wheel rim has a flattened lower section, perforated leather in the grip area and red contrasting topstitching. The galvanised steering wheel gearshift paddles allow a sportier driving style with manual gear shifting. The integral touch control buttons can be used to select the displays of the instrument cluster and the multimedia system by means of horizontal and vertical swiping and to position them according to individual preferences.
The optional AMG Performance steering wheel can be fitted, upon request, with additional elements. These consist of a round controller with an integrated display beneath the right-hand steering-wheel spoke, plus two vertically positioned colour display buttons with switches beneath the left-hand steering-wheel spoke.
The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine responds spontaneously to accelerator pedal commands, high tractive power (400 Nm max. torque from 3000 rpm) and an engine sound typical of AMG. A twin-scroll turbocharger is used for turbocharging, combining optimum responsiveness at low engine speeds with a strong power increase at higher speeds.
Together with two separate exhaust ducts in the exhaust manifold, this makes it possible to channel the exhaust gases separately on the turbine wheel. The exhaust system features an automatically controlled exhaust flap as standard. Depending on the drive programme selected the sound is modulated from balanced to powerful.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G dual-clutch transmission gear ratios have been configured so that the driver experiences acceleration in all speed ranges.
The standard RACE-START function allows maximum acceleration from stationary. The functions of the transmission are rounded off with a temporary M mode activated by operating the steering wheel shift paddles in any driving mode, and with the manual transmission mode "M" for manual gear shifting with the shift paddles.
Dynamism, agility and performance characterise the standard all-wheel drive of the new AMG A 35 4MATIC Sedan. The variable AMG Performance 4MATIC combines the best possible traction with driving fun. The torque distribution is infinitely variable. The spectrum ranges from front-wheel drive only to a 50:50 per cent distribution to the front and rear axles.
A multi-disc clutch that is integrated in the rear axle transmission is responsible for the variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles. It is controlled electro-mechanically.
The main advantages of electro-mechanical control over an electro-hydraulic system relate to sharper driving dynamics – primarily due to the significantly faster response and speed-independent actuation of the discs over the entire adjustment range.