ಮರ್ಸಿಡಿಸ್ A-Class A200 CDI Sport

It is only a few weeks ago, when the luxury car brand Mercedes Benz introduced a limited edition version of its premium hatchback, A-Class. Now it has again revised this model series by launching a powerful diesel version in its portfolio. At the same time, it has phased out all other variants apart from the petrol trim. Right now, this luxury hatchback is being offered in two trim levels among which, Mercedes-Benz A-Class A200 CDI Sport is the new diesel engine based variant. It is powered by a 2.1-litre diesel engine that is mated with an automatic gear box. However, this engine is now capable of producing a peak power of 136bhp along with a pounding torque of 300Nm, which is rather good. On the other hand, there are no changes made to either exteriors or interiors. At the same time, this latest trim has all the features, which are already available in the existing petrol variant. Those includes ECO start/stop function, a proficient air conditioning system with pollen filter, and electrically adjustable driver's seat with memory. On the other hand, this vehicle is also blessed with a series of innovative protective aspects ATTENTION ASSIST function, crash responsive emergency brake light and an engine immobilizer device. This vehicle is currently placed against the likes of BMW 1 Series and Volvo V40 in the Indian automobile market.

Exteriors:

The automaker has not made any changes to the exterior cosmetics of this hatchback, since the updates are only given to the trim levels. It looks entirely the same like the existing petrol variant with all the signature cosmetics. To start with the front facade, it has a stylish radiator grille that is designed with diamond-like pins. Furthermore, it is fitted with a horizontally positioned louvre along with a company's logo in the center. Surrounding this is the stylish headlight cluster featuring powerful bi-xenon lamps along with signature LED DRLs. The front bumper has a distinctive structure featuring expressive air ducts and a body color lip that gives a sporty silhouette. Coming to the side facet, this vehicle a few expressive lines on its door panel, which emphasizes its aerodynamic stature. This trim gets black colored window sills, B pillars along with body colored door handles and ORVM caps. Its fenders are fitted with a stylish set of 16-inch 5-twin spoke design light weight alloy wheel, which are done up with matte black in high sheen finish. Like its front facade, its rear facet too looks like a jewel owing to its LED brake lights and turn indicators. Its rear bumper has a dual tone finish as it is fitted with a black colored cladding. The most attractive aspect of this facet is its sporty rear spoiler that is accompanied by third brake lights.

Interiors:

Coming to the interiors, this vehicle has a spectacular cabin design that will certainly mesmerize the occupants as soon as they enter. It is done up in an attractive black color scheme, which is further complimented by the chrome and brushed metallic accents. The seats along with the steering wheel have been covered with Nappa leather upholstery featuring contrast red stitching. Its dashboard has a sublime design featuring star design AC vents, which are further garnished in chrome. The best part about the cabin is its ample leg and shoulder space, which is good enough to host at least five occupants. Both the front seats have electrical adjustment function including lumbar support wherein, the driver's seat also has memory setting. The individual seats in the cockpit are separated by a massive floor console that houses a center armrest along with cup holders and a few other such utility features. The overall look of the cabin is amplified by the illumination given on control switches and instrument cluster.

Engine and Performance:

This newly introduced Mercedes-Benz A-Class A200 CDI Sport trim is equipped with a powerful 2.1-litre diesel engine that has a displacement capacity of 2143cc. This engine received a minor tweak that resulted in improvement of its overall power output. It is based on the double overhead camshaft valve configuration with 4-cylinders and 16-valves, which receives fuel through common rail injection technology. This enables it to pump out a peak power of 136bhp between 3600 to 4400rpm that results in a commanding torque output of 300Nm between 1600 to 3000rpm. This superior torque output is transmitted to the front wheels through an advanced seven speed automatic transmission gearbox.

Braking and Handling:

All the four wheels are fitted with disc brakes wherein the front discs are internally vented. These are loaded with superior brake calipers and are assisted by anti lock braking system and brake assist function that improves the overall braking mechanism. In addition to these, it also gets traction control function like electronic stability program and anti slip regulation that helps to improve the agility of this hatchback. This vehicle is blessed with a superior suspension system with optimized weight for better stability and drive comfort. Its front axle is paired to McPherson strut and the rear one has four-link system that ensures superior driving stability.

Comfort Features:

This luxury hatchback has an array of advanced comfort features, which are helpful to make the drive fascinating. The list of aspects includes ECO start/stop function, adjustable steering column, power windows with obstruction sensors, rear center armrest with cup holders, load through function and split foldable rear bench seat. In addition to these, it also has features like boot lighting, electrically adjustable front seats with lumbar support, memory setting for driver's seat, multi functional steering wheel and an illuminated glove box compartment. This vehicle also gets an advanced Audio 20CD In-car entertainment system featuring a high resolution touchscreen and a few connectivity options.

Safety Features:

In terms of safety, this variant has an array of active and passive protective aspects, which ensures maximized safety to the occupants. The list includes electronic stability program, curve dynamic assist, acceleration skid control, adaptive brake with hold function and hill start assist function. Beside these, it also has TIREFIT with tyre-inflation compressor, lamp failure indicator, crash responsive emergency braking, brake pad wear indicator and driver's side exterior mirror with automatic dimming function.

Pros:

1. It is now available with panoramic sunroof as standard.

2. Improved engine power enhances the driving pleasure.

Cons:

1. COMAND Online multimedia system is missing.

2. There are no updates to the exteriors.