Mercedes-Benz introduces a mild facelift for the A-Class

If BMW in 2022 commemorated its past by celebrating 50 years of the M performance division, the year for Mercedes-Benz has revolved around the future. The three-pointed star brand launched an electrified line-up of its AMG EQS performance sedan in India, the GLC urban crossover globally, and an inline-four hybrid instead of a V8 engine in the new C63 AMG performance sedan, a first for the brand. And now, Mercedes-Benz has updated its entry-level A-Class model line with an electrified power unit.

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class has received a mild facelift featuring minor cosmetic tweaks, more driver assistance features and a hybrid engine line-up. The new A-Class gets sharper looks comprising a tweaked shark nose grille flanked by new LED headlights with eyebrow DRLs. The bumpers receive a new trapezoidal design, and the tail lights flaunt a new split design instead of the Y-shaped LEDs seen in the previous-generation model.

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The cabin layout remains largely the same except for a few feature additions. A fingerprint sensor for driver identification, standard comfort seats, and a revised telematics system comprise the new A-Class’s additional creature comforts. The dual display layout for the instrument cluster and the infotainment system has been retained though one can now opt for both screens with a 10.25-inch layout instead of a 7-incher and a 10.25-inch setup. The software inside receives the latest MBUX as well. Though, new driver assistance systems such as Active Steering Control that help with the Lane Assist feature and a whole Parking Assistant suite of features comprising a 360-degree camera system get installed.

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Major changes on the new A-Class can be found under the bonnet. The entire engine line-up has now been electrified, entailing each engine option will carry either a mild-hybrid or a plug-in hybrid setup. All engines are four-cylinder mills which can be coupled with a 7 or an 8-speed DCT automatic gearbox. The new A-Class also gets a belt-driven starter-generator (RSG) which ensures lower vibrations and a quieter start while enabling ‘sailing’, which turns the combustion engine off during steady cruising and better efficiency. Power figures range between 116hp to 224hp.

The facelifted A35 and A45 hot hatch

Even with the new 2023 update, the new Mercedes-Benz A45S AMG retains its title as the most powerful hot hatch on sale. No changes have been made under the bonnet entailing the 2023 A45S AMG still comes equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 421hp, making it capable of hitting 100kph in a mere 3.9 seconds.

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The updates can be found on the exterior, featuring restyled headlight and tail light units, newer exterior paint options and a new wheel design. Similar mild tweaking can be seen on the interior comprising software updates to the infotainment system and the AMG-spec steering wheel.

The milder A35 hatchback from Mercedes-Benz features the same updates to the cabin. Though it benefits from the fitment of a new 48V mild-hybrid system that adds 13hp, the engine power output remains the same at 302hp. The exterior of the A35 carries similar cosmetic tweaks seen on the A45S to round off the facelift.