Mercedes-AMG has announced prices for its latest hot hatch A-Class – the A 35, which will challenge the likes of the Audi S3 Sportback and BMW M140i.
As a precursor to a full-fat AMG A 45 that will arrive next year, the A 35 packs a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that produces 306hp and 400Nm of torque. It’s paired exclusively with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic gearbox.
With launch control enabled, the A 35 is good for a 0-60mph time of 4.5 seconds and an electronically limited 155mph top speed. Fuel economy is pegged at 38.7mpg with CO2 emissions of 167g/km.
Standard equipment includes the new Mercedes-Benz MBUX infotainment system, spread across two seven-inch displays and featuring voice commands activated by saying ‘Hey Mercedes’. Other standard kit includes satnav, lane keeping and speed limit assist, 18-inch alloy wheels, reversing camera, keyless starting and dual-zone climate control.
Giving an AMG flavour to the proceedings are a specific radiator grille, performance steering wheel, exhaust system and high-performance brakes with AMG lettering.
Customers can then spec several packages. The Executive pack costs £1,395 and adds a larger media display, heated front seats, additional leather and parking assist, while the Premium pack brings keyless entry, an upgraded sound system, ambient lighting and a rear armrest.
Premium Plus builds on those with a top-end Burmester sound system, electric front seats, LED headlights and panoramic roof for its £3,895 price tag.
On the safety front, customers can spec a Driving Assistance package for £1,695 in conjunction with one of the other packs – it adds blind spot assist, autonomous emergency braking, lane-change assist and radar-guided cruise control.
The A 35’s starting price of £35,580 undercuts the Audi S3’s £36,230 and BMW M140i’s £35,790. Order books are open now, with first deliveries due in the spring.
