Mercedes-Benz A-Class#First generation (W168; 1997)

{{Redirect|W168|the isotope of tungsten (W-168 or ¹⁶⁸W)|Tungsten-168}}

{{Infobox automobile

| name = First generation

| image = Mercedes A 160 Elegance (W168) front 20090926.jpg

| production = {{ubl

| October 1996{{Cite web|url=https://mercedes-benz-publicarchive.com/marsClassic/en/instance/ko/A-170-CDI--W-168-DE-17-LA-1998---2001.xhtml?oid=5582|title=A 170 CDI / W 168 DE 17 LA, 1998 - 2001|access-date=30 March 2024|website=mercedes-benz-publicarchive.com}} – May 2004

| February 1999 – September 2005 (Brazil)

}}

| assembly = {{ubl

| Germany: Rastatt

| Brazil: Juiz de Fora (Mercedes-Benz Brazil)

| Thailand: Samut Prakan ({{abbr|TAAP|Thonburi Automotive Assembly Plant Co., Ltd.}})

}}

| engine = {{ubl|

| Petrol:

| 1.4 L M166 I4

| 1.6 L M166 I4

| 1.9 L M166 I4

| 2.1 L M166 I4

| Diesel:

| 1.7 L OM668 I4

}}

| transmission = {{ubl|

| 5-speed manual

| 5-speed automated manual

| 5-speed automatic

}}

| body_style = 5-door hatchback

| wheelbase = {{ubl

| {{convert|2423|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| {{convert|2593|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (LWB)

}}

| length = {{ubl

| {{convert|3606|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| {{convert|3780|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (LWB)

}}

| width = {{convert|1719|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| height = {{convert|1587|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| related = Vaneo (W414)

| designer = Steve Mattin (1994)

| model_code = W168

}}

In 1994, Mercedes-Benz confirmed that it would be launching a compact car - the A-Class (A 160) - by early 1997, and (A 190) by early 1999, which would be the company's first venture in this sector of the market; it was hinted at this stage that the new car would be shorter than the average supermini but as spacious and practical inside as a large family car.{{cite web|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/motoring/baby-benz-in-a-class-of-its-own-1382725.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220512/https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/motoring/baby-benz-in-a-class-of-its-own-1382725.html |archive-date=12 May 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Baby-Benz in a Class of Its Own|author=Catterall, Mark

|work=Independent|date= 11 August 1994 |access-date=7 July 2020}}

The A-Class was presented to the motoring press late in 1996, and launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in the autumn of 1997, the W168 A-Class was quite unusual for Mercedes-Benz featuring a front-wheel drive layout and unusual tall but yet short body and Avantgarde at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show and 1999 Frankfurt Motor Show.

This was the first complete exterior designed by Coventry University trained Steve Mattin, for which he was named Autocar magazine's 'Designer of the Year'. Earlier, Mattin had mostly worked on design for the W210 E-Class in 1991. Concurrent to the W168, he designed the exterior of the W220 S-Class. The final design freeze occurred in January 1995, at 32 months before August 1997 start of production.europe.autonews.com/article/19970303/ANE/703030836/a-class-sets-new-record-for-mercedes{{Cite web |url=http://blog.caranddriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Mercedes-Benz-A-class-sketch.jpg |title=Archived copy |access-date=29 April 2014 |archive-date=23 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140323200519/http://blog.caranddriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Mercedes-Benz-A-class-sketch.jpg |url-status=dead }}

Between 1997 and 2004, 1.1 million first generation A-Class models had been sold.{{cite web |url=http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-656507-1-826749-1-0-0-0-0-1-11701-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html |title=Rastatt Plant celebrates production of 1,500,000th Mercedes-Benz A-Class |publisher=Media.daimler.com |date=4 December 2006 |access-date=7 July 2012 |archive-date=21 September 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921055300/http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-656507-1-826749-1-0-0-0-0-1-11701-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html |url-status=dead }} Overall, Daimler lost €1,440 per vehicle produced.{{Cite news|date=2013-09-25|title=Zoom, sputter, aagghhh!!|newspaper=The Economist|url=https://www.economist.com/graphic-detail/2013/09/25/zoom-sputter-aagghhh|access-date=2021-11-29|issn=0013-0613}}

The A-Class was facelifted in February 2001, with minor alterations to the headlights, front and rear bumper design and the addition of a new {{convert|170|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} longer wheelbase version. It was launched at the Geneva Motor Show.{{cite web|title=Mercedes-Benz A-class|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/news/mercedes-benz-a-class-news|work=Car and Driver|access-date=2 April 2013|date=Feb 2001}}

The W168 became infamous in 1997 after flipping over during the traditional "moose test"{{cite web|title=Merc's baby to be made wider|url=http://www.independent.ie/lifestyle/motoring/mercs-baby-to-be-made-wider-26201187.html|work=Irish Independent|access-date=2 April 2013|date=19 December 1997}} performed by the Swedish automobile publication Teknikens Värld. According to the report, the W168 overturned when manoeuvring to avoid the "moose". Mercedes initially denied the problem, but then took the surprising step of recalling all units sold to date (2,600) and suspending sales for three months until the problem was solved by adding electronic stability control and modifying the suspension.{{cite web|last=Andrews|first=Edmund|title=Mercedes-Benz Tries to Put a Persistent Moose Problem to Rest|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1997/12/11/business/mercedes-benz-tries-to-put-a-persistent-moose-problem-to-rest.html|work=The New York Times|access-date=2 April 2013|date=11 December 1997}} The company spent DM 2.5 billion in developing the car, with a further DM 300 million to fix it.{{cite news|title=Mercedes bends|url=https://www.economist.com/node/352668|newspaper=The Economist|access-date=2 April 2013|date=13 November 1997}}

All A-Class models are powered by four-cylinder engines, with 1.4 L and 1.6 L petrol models at launch (M 166 series), followed by two versions of a 1.7 L diesel engine (OM 668 series). In 1999, a larger 1.9 L petrol model was added, with the 2.1 the last W168 version to be launched in 2002. Also two AMG versions were produced, a 3.2 in 2001 and a 3.8 in 2000, though very few of these were made.{{cite web|title=The Mercedes-Benz A-Class: A class apart|url=http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-950512-1-955963-1-0-0-956161-0-1-11702-614318-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html?TS=1364943413716|work=Mercedes-Benz|access-date=2 April 2013|date=28 September 2007|archive-date=3 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303231606/http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-950512-1-955963-1-0-0-956161-0-1-11702-614318-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html?TS=1364943413716|url-status=dead}}

| width = 200

| height = 120

| File:Mercedes A-Klasse front.JPG|2001–2004 Facelift A 140 Classic

| File:Mercedes A140 Classic Fun 20090329 rear.jpg|1997–2001 Pre-facelift A 140 Classic Fun

| File:Mercedes A-Klasse rear.JPG|2001–2004 Facelift A 140 Classic

| File:Mercedes W168 Inside 20180303.jpg|Interior

}}

DaimlerChrysler invested EUR 900 million in developing the Rastatt plant where the A-Class is produced, and created 1600 new jobs (for a total of 4700). A further 600 people work in the office building at the plant site.

Mercedes-Benz began W168 production on 17 February 1999 at its new Brazilian facility in Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais. The Brazilian plant was the company's first factory in South America dedicated to passenger cars, with an investment of US$840 million and 10,000 employees. The factory initially produced A-Class and C-Class models, assembling them from pieces manufactured in Germany. The target for the cars was regional markets (from Argentina to Mexico) with modifications made to the cars to suit local conditions, like a protection for the motor base. By May 2004 production stopped in Rastatt plant. In September 2005 Brazilian Juiz de Fora factory stopped production of A-Class cars.{{cite web | url=https://mercedes-benz-publicarchive.com/marsClassic/en/instance/ko/168-series-A-Class-Saloons-2001---2005.xhtml?oid=5587 | title=168 series A-Class Saloons, 2001 - 2005 }}

File:Mercedes-Benz A-Class F-Cell--DC.jpg concept]]

{{See also|Mercedes-Benz F-Cell}}It is a version of 5-door A-Class hydrogen fuel cell vehicle with {{convert|88|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} electric motor. It has a driving range of {{convert|160|km|mi|0|abbr=on}}.[https://media.daimler.com/marsMediaSite/en/instance/ko/The-A-Class-and-the-drive-of-the-future-F-Cell-and-HyPer.xhtml?oid=9271873 The A-Class and the drive of the future: F-Cell and HyPer]

Three A-Class F-Cell cars were used in the 2003 Frankfurt International Motor Show for press shuttle service. On 18 June 2004, 4 production F-Cell vehicles were delivered to Deutsche Telekom and BEWAG/Vattenfall Europe in Berlin.[http://media.daimler.com/Projects/c2c/channel/documents/1242431_Brennstoffzelle102007_kurz_e.rtf History of fuel cell development at Mercedes-Benz] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141218120330/http://media.daimler.com/Projects/c2c/channel/documents/1242431_Brennstoffzelle102007_kurz_e.rtf|date=18 December 2014}}

In 2007, the A-Class F-Cell were delivered to Landsvirkjun and Reykjavik Energy.{{Cite web|url=https://paultan.org/2007/07/26/mercedes-benz-a-class-f-cell-in-iceland/|title=Mercedes-Benz A-Class F-Cell in Iceland - paultan.org|date=25 July 2007}}

A DHL version of F-Cell was unveiled in FC EXPO 2008.{{Cite web|url=http://www.mercedes-benz.co.jp/news/c_release/2008/20080222.pdf|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307201054/http://www.mercedes-benz.co.jp/news/c_release/2008/20080222.pdf|url-status=dead|title=メルセデス・ベンツの究極のエコカー F-Cell（エフ・セル） DHL 仕様車をFC EXPO 2008 に展示|archivedate=7 March 2013}}

According to a 2008 British satisfaction survey by Which?, the A-Class came third from bottom out of 217 models surveyed with a score of 65 percent.{{Cite web |title= |website=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-britain-cars-idINL263764842008062}}

{{Redirect|W169|the isotope of tungsten (W-169 or ¹⁶⁹W)|Tungsten-169}}

{{Infobox automobile

| name = Second generation

| image = Mercedes-Benz A 180 CDI Elegance (W 169) – Frontansicht (1), 30. März 2011, Wülfrath.jpg

| production = June 2004 – 2012

| assembly = {{ubl

| Germany: Rastatt

| Thailand: Samut Prakan ({{abbr|TAAP|Thonburi Automotive Assembly Plant Co., Ltd.}}){{cite web |url=http://www.thonburi.com/profile_detail_en.php?aid=2 |title=Profile |publisher=Thonburi Automotive Group – Thonburi Phanich |access-date=30 April 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221214225/http://www.thonburi.com/profile_detail_en.php?aid=2 |archive-date=21 February 2014 }}

}}

| body_style = {{ubl

| 3-door hatchback

| 5-door hatchback

}}

| related = B-Class (W245)

| engine = {{ubl|

| Petrol:

| 1.5 L M266 I4

| 1.7 L M266 I4

| 2.0 L M266 I4

| 2.0 L M266 turbo I4

| Diesel:

| 2.0 L OM640 turbodiesel I4

}}

| transmission = {{ubl

| 5-speed manual

| 6-speed manual

| CVT

}}

| wheelbase = {{convert|2568|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| length = {{ubl

| {{convert|3838|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (2004)

| {{convert|3883|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (2008)

}}

| width = {{convert|1764|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| height = {{convert|1593|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| model_code = W169

}}

File:Mercedes-Benz C169 A150 Heck.JPG

File:Mercedes A 150 Elegance (W169) rear 20100405.jpg

The W169 is constructed with high-strength steel alloys with bonded joints. Standard equipment included front as well as combined head and thorax-protection side airbags. The front airbags are adaptive with two-stage gas generators operating according to the severity of accident. Optionally rear side airbags (for side-impacts in the backseats) and side-curtain airbags were available.

The force exerted by the seat belt system during a collision adapts dynamically to collision characteristics. The 'active' head restraints (standard for driver and front passenger) reduce neck injury, especially in rear collisions.

The cargo capacity of the W169 was increased by 15 percent over the W168.

Seven four-cylinder engines were available: four petrol (gasoline) (A 150, A 170, A 200, A 200 Turbo) and three diesel (A 160 CDI, A 180 CDI, A 200 CDI) partnered with either five- or six-speed manual gearbox. A continuously variable transmission system called "Autotronic Constantly Variable Transmission" (CVT) is an optional feature.

The petrol A 200 Turbo provides {{convert|193|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} and {{convert|280|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} of torque (rotational force); the diesel A 200 CDI has {{convert|140|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} and {{convert|300|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}.

The most powerful engine achieved 0-{{convert|100|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} in 8.0 seconds with a top speed of {{convert|218|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}}.

The newly developed direct-injection CDI diesel units use a common-rail direct injection system that improves fuel consumption and reduces exhaust emissions and engine noise.

All the engines meet the tight EU4 emissions limits. A particulate filter system is available as an option for the diesel units to reduce particulate emissions by about 99% without the need for additives.

The A-Class is a front wheel drive car and features traction control (ASR) as standard, as well as electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes (ABS).

Handling is improved by precision tracking and anti-roll support, and by a Parabolic Rear Axle.

A "Selective Damping System", in which the shock absorber forces respond differently according to conditions, is standard. For example, under normal conditions it operates at soft absorption; while cornering at speed it changes to full damping force.

Sales of the W169 were targeted at 50,000 units in 2004. Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Mercedes Car Group, said that target had been reached even before vehicles arrived in dealer showrooms.{{citation needed|date=January 2015}}

Japan models went on sale in 2005-02-04. Early models include 5-door right drive versions of A 170, A 170 Elegance, A 200 Elegance.{{Cite web|url=http://www.mercedes-benz.co.jp/news/release/2005/20050224.pdf|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20060906112951/http://www.mercedes-benz.co.jp/news/release/2005/20050224.pdf|url-status=dead|title=メルセデス・ベンツ Aクラスをフルモデルチェンジ|archivedate=6 September 2006}} 5-door right drive version of A 200 TURBO Elegance was added in 2005-11-10.{{Cite web|url=http://www.mercedes-benz.co.jp/news/release/2005/20051110.pdf|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20061214203520/http://www.mercedes-benz.co.jp/news/release/2005/20051110.pdf|url-status=dead|title=メルセデス・ベンツ Aクラスのスポーティモデル｢A 200 ターボアバンギャルド｣を追加|archivedate=14 December 2006}} Due to the body width being larger than 1700 mm, it could not be registered as small car in Japan. (See Vehicle size class#Japan)

File:Mercedes-Benz A 180 CDI Elegance (W 169) – Innenansicht, 30. März 2011, Wülfrath.jpg

The W169 Model facelift changes included redesigned front and rear fascias and lights, and optional stop-start function on A 150 and 170 models.{{Cite web |url=http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-614247-1-1082065-1-0-0-0-0-1-11702-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html?TS=1357247399375 |title=The new-generation A-Class – Model facelift changes at a glance (Selection): New features in the A-Class |access-date=3 January 2013 |archive-date=21 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221043609/http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-614247-1-1082065-1-0-0-0-0-1-11702-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html?TS=1357247399375 |url-status=dead }} Active Park Assist enables the car to parallel park itself, with only throttle and brake inputs required from the driver.

The five-door Hatchback and the three-door Coupé vehicles debuted in spring 2008, alongside the refreshed 2009 M-Class and B-Class.{{Cite web |url=http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-614247-1-1082011-1-0-0-0-0-1-11702-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html?TS=1357247562148 |title=The new-generation A-Class – The A-Class once again sets the standards for safety, comfort and environmental protection |access-date=3 January 2013 |archive-date=18 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141218121931/http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-614247-1-1082011-1-0-0-0-0-1-11702-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html?TS=1357247562148 |url-status=dead }} Early models include A 160 CDI, A 180 CDI, A 200 CDI, A 150, A 170, A 200, A 200 TURBO.{{Cite web |url=http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-614247-1-1082011-1-0-0-0-0-1-11702-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html?TS=1357247562148 |title=The new-generation A-Class – Technical data A-Class |access-date=3 January 2013 |archive-date=18 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141218121931/http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-614247-1-1082011-1-0-0-0-0-1-11702-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html?TS=1357247562148 |url-status=dead }}

Japan models went on sale in late August 2008. Early models 5-door versions of A 170, A 170 Elegance.{{Cite web|url=http://www.mercedes-benz.co.jp/news/release/2008/20080820_1.pdf|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307200635/http://www.mercedes-benz.co.jp/news/release/2008/20080820_1.pdf|url-status=dead|title=メルセデス・ベンツ Aクラスを一部改良|archivedate=7 March 2013}} Japan models of A 170 was renamed to A 180 in August 2009.{{Cite web|url=http://www.mercedes-benz.co.jp/news/release/2009/20090824_1.pdf|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307182204/http://www.mercedes-benz.co.jp/news/release/2009/20090824_1.pdf|url-status=dead|title=メルセデス・ベンツ Aクラス・Bクラスのモデル名称を変更|archivedate=7 March 2013}}

{{gallery

| width = 200

| height = 120

| File:Mercedes-Benz A 160 BlueEFFICIENCY Serienausstattung (W 169, Facelift) – Frontansicht, 13. November 2011, Heiligenhaus.jpg|Facelift A 160 5-door

| File:Mercedes A 150 BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé Classic (C169) Facelift rear 20101016.jpg|Facelift A 150 3-door

| File:Mercedes A 150 Avantgarde (W169) Facelift rear 20100818.jpg|Facelift A 150 Avantgarde 5-door

}}

The Special Edition is a limited (5500 units) version for all model variants of the A-Class. It includes the BlueEfficiency package, black radiator louvres, 16-inch titanium silver light-alloy wheels in a new 9-spoke design (tyre size 195/55 R16), a "Special Edition" badge on the mirror triangle, two-tone colour scheme in black and grey, Audio 20 radio with CD player and Bluetooth hands-free system and the Light and Sight package with a rain sensor, automatically dimming rear-view mirror, an illuminated vanity mirror in the sun visor, separately adjustable reading lights in the rear, a reading light for the driver and illuminated front foot wells, Seating Comfort package (height-adjustable front passenger seat, seat cushion angle adjustment and lumbar supports for the driver and front passenger). Standard exterior features also include fog lamps and a free choice of metallic paint finish.{{cite web |url=http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-614247-1-1202114-1-0-0-0-0-1-11701-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html |title=A-Class Special Edition 2009: Excitingly sensible, sporty and attractive |publisher=Media.daimler.com |date=23 April 2009 |access-date=7 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120304110039/http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-614247-1-1202114-1-0-0-0-0-1-11701-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html |archive-date=4 March 2012 |url-status=dead }}

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class E-CELL was introduced in September 2010 and debuted at the October 2010 Paris Motor Show.{{cite web|url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2010/09/aclassecell-20100915.html|title=Mercedes-Benz Introduces the Battery-Powered A-Class E-CELL; Production Run of 500|publisher=Green Car Congress|date=15 September 2010|access-date=4 May 2011}}{{cite web|url=http://www.earthtechling.com/2010/10/mercedes-a-class-e-cell-ev-hits-paris/|title=Mercedes A-Class E-Cell EV Hits Paris|author= Nino Marchetti|work=Earth Techling|date=2 October 2010|access-date=4 May 2011}} The E-Cell has a range of {{convert|200|km|mi}} capable of developing a peak output of {{convert|70|kW|hp|abbr=on}}, a continuous power rating of {{convert|50|kW|hp|abbr=on}} and a maximum torque of 290 N·m (214 lb·ft). The Mercedes A-Class E-Cell can accelerate from 0–60 km/h (37 mph) in 5.5 seconds, and its top speed is {{convert|150|km/h|abbr=on}}.{{cite web |url=http://green.autoblog.com/2010/09/16/mercedes-benz-unveils-the-limited-production-a-class-e-cell-elec/|title=Mercedes-Benz unveils the limited production A-Class E-Cell electric vehicle|author=Eric Loveday|work=AutoblogGreen|date=16 September 2010|access-date=4 May 2011}}

Tesla Motors, as part of its collaboration with Mercedes-Benz, built electric powertrain components for the E-Cell. The 36 kWh battery contains approximately 4,000 individual lithium-ion cells.{{cite web|url=http://www.benzworld.org/forums/mercedes-benz-news/1540881-electric-mercedes-class-debut-paris-auto.html |title=Electric Mercedes A-Class to Debut at Paris Auto Show Using Tesla Battery Tech – Benzworld.org – Mercedes-Benz Discussion Forum|publisher=Benzworld.org |access-date=3 October 2010}}{{cite news|url=http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/08/26/mercedes-benz-to-produce-500-e-cell-a-class-electric-cars/|title=Mercedes-Benz to Produce 500 E-Cell A-Class Electric Cars|author=Jim Motavalli|work=The New York Times|date=26 August 2010|access-date=4 May 2011}} Mercedes has developed a modular system for electric vehicles with battery and fuel-cell. This system allows the efficient use of shared parts in all the brand's electric vehicles. Thanks to the modular approach the electric drive of the A‑Class E‑Cell is also used in the B‑Class F‑Cell, and the energy storage units in the A‑Class EV are the same as the battery in the Smart fortwo electric drive.

A limited production of 500 A-Class E-Cell electric cars will be built, for trial purposes, at the Mercedes Rastatt plant, near Stuttgart beginning in September 2010. As part of a demonstration program, the cars will be leased to selected customers in several European countries, including Germany, France, and the Netherlands. Daimler is not planning to sell the electric version outside Europe.{{cite web|url=http://www.plugincars.com/short-test-electric-mercedes-class-e-cell-106984.html|title=Quick Drive: Electric Mercedes A-Class E-Cell|author= Laurent J. Masson |work=PluginCars.com|date=29 March 2011|access-date=4 May 2011}}

The Final Edition is a limited (300 units) version of 5-door righthand drive A 180 for the Japanese market. It included calcite white body colour, black interior colour, sport package (chrome exhaust tip, 17-inch 7-spoke alloy wheels, chrome iridium silver front grille, stainless acceleration and brake pedals with rubber stud, leather wrapped sport steering wheel and silver shift knob, silver meter panel), bi-xenon headlights and headlight washer, cornering lights, fog lamps (front/rear), rain sensor, sun visor with illuminating mirror, anti-glare mirrors, 'Final Edition' emblem, and floor mats with 'Final Edition' silver logo plates.

The vehicle went on sale on 28 May 2012.{{Cite web|url=http://www.mercedes-benz.co.jp/news/release/2012/20120528.pdf|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016124030/http://www.mercedes-benz.co.jp/news/release/2012/20120528.pdf|url-status=dead|title=A 180 FINAL EDITION を限定発売|archivedate=16 October 2012}}

As of 4 December 2006, 371,700 second generation A-Class units had been sold since September 2004, making it a total of 1,500,000 A-Class produced at DaimlerChrysler's Rastatt plant in ten years.

As of 26 June 2009, the 750,000th second generation A-Class vehicle was built at the Rastatt plant.{{cite web |url=http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-656507-1-1218658-1-0-0-0-0-1-11701-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html |title=Production milestones at Rastatt plant: Mercedes-Benz delivers 500,000th B-Class and 750,000th A-Class |publisher=Media.daimler.com |date=26 June 2009 |access-date=7 July 2012 |archive-date=4 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120304110922/http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-656507-1-1218658-1-0-0-0-0-1-11701-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html |url-status=dead }}

As of 1 February 2012, 1 million second generation A-Class vehicles had been delivered since autumn 2004.{{cite web |url=http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-614247-1-1458532-1-0-0-0-0-1-11701-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714041438/http://media.daimler.com/dcmedia/0-921-614247-1-1458532-1-0-0-0-0-1-11701-854934-0-1-0-0-0-0-0.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=14 July 2012 |title=More than One Million A-Class Models of the Current Generation Delivered to Customers |publisher=Media.daimler.com |date=1 February 2012 |access-date=7 July 2012 }}

In 2021, the Mercedes A-Class achieved the title of 4th best-selling car in the UK having achieved a total of 30,710 registrations.{{cite web |url=https://www.smmt.co.uk/vehicle-data/car-registrations/ |title=SMMT - Car Registrations |publisher=smmt.co.uk |access-date=22 January 2022}}

{{Infobox automobile

| name = Third generation

| image = Mercedes-Benz A 180 Urban (W 176) – Frontansicht, 30. November 2014, Ratingen.jpg

| production = {{ubl

| July 2012{{cite web|url=https://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/mercedes-a-class-enters-production-utility-variant-confirmed/|title=Mercedes A-Class enters production, utility variant confirmed|first=Jeff|last=Sabatini|date=17 July 2012|access-date=14 October 2023}} – May 2018{{cite web|url=https://accessories.mercedes-benz.com/en-MB/accessories/passengercars/a-class-w176-0109|title=Accessories for A-Class Hatchback|access-date=15 October 2023|website=accessories.mercedes-benz.com}} (Germany)

| August 2013 – May 2018 (Finland)

}}

| caption = 2014 Mercedes-Benz A 180 Urban 5-door hatchback pre-facelift (Germany)

| model_years = 2013–2018

| assembly = {{ubl |Germany: Rastatt |Finland: Uusikaupunki (Valmet){{cite web |url=http://www.valmet-automotive.com/automotive/bulletin.nsf/pebd/A05F4305111CB80FC2257A4500325A70 |title=Valmet Automotive to manufacture the new Mercedes Benz A-Class in Finland |publisher=Valmet Automotive |access-date=24 July 2012 |archive-date=26 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130126061408/http://www.valmet-automotive.com/automotive/bulletin.nsf/pebd/A05F4305111CB80FC2257A4500325A70 |url-status=dead }}}}

| platform = Mercedes-Benz MFA

| body_style = 5-door hatchback

| model_code = W176

}}

{{main|Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W176)}}

The model was introduced at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show officially as a subcompact executive / C-segment model for the first time after being a supermini / B-segment for fifteen years.{{cite web|url=https://instantcars.wordpress.com/2012/07/23/mercedes-benz-a-class-w176-3rd-generation/|title=Mercedes-Benz A-Class W176 (3rd Generation)|date=23 July 2012|access-date=14 October 2023|website=InstantCars}} This model does not offer a 3-door model, due to the decreasing popularity of 3-door models and its larger size.{{cite web|url=https://www.autoevolution.com/news/w176-2013-mercedes-a-class-3-door-rendering-51521.html|title=W176 2013 Mercedes A-Class 3-door Rendering|first=Mihnea|last=Radu|date=7 November 2012|website=www.autoevolution.com|access-date=14 October 2023}} The W176 was available in some markets from September 2012.{{cite web|url=https://www.autoevolution.com/news/new-mercedes-a-class-arrives-in-september-2012-46196.html|title=New Mercedes A-Class Arrives in September 2012|first=Mihnea|last=Radu|date=15 June 2012|website=www.autoevolution.com|access-date=14 October 2023}} Models in the Japanese market went on sale in January 2013.{{cite web|url=https://cars.japanesecartrade.com/detail/mercedes-benz/a-class/a180-blue-efficiency-sports/108019|title=Mercedes Benz A Class DBA-176042|website=cars.japanesecartrade.com|access-date=14 October 2023}}

The design for the third generation of A-Class was based on the 2011 Concept A-Class and was unveiled at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.{{Cite web|url=https://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/mercedes-benz-a-class-reveal-geneva-2012-video/|title=Mercedes-Benz A-Class hatches new level of refinement for its class [w/video]|website=Autoblog|date=5 March 2012 }} The facelifted model of the W176 was presented in Q3 2015. Orders for the facelifted model had started in July 2015, and mass production started in September. The facelift had added updated lights, technology, and models.{{cite web|url=https://paultan.org/2015/06/27/w176-mercedes-benz-a-class-facelift-full-details/|title=W176 Mercedes-Benz A-Class facelift – full details!|website=paultan.org|publisher=Paul Tan's Automotive News|date=27 June 2015|first=Hafriz|last=Shah|access-date=14 October 2023}} The model was initially built exclusively in Rastatt. However, from late 2013 it was also built in Uusikaupunki, Finland for certain countries.{{cite web|url=https://www.autoevolution.com/news/mercedes-benz-a-class-w176-production-starts-at-valmet-in-finland-66037.html|title=Mercedes-Benz A-Class W176 Production Starts at Valmet, in Finland|first=Alex|last=Oagana|date=30 August 2013|access-date=14 October 2023}}

File:Mercedes-Benz A 180 Urban (W 176) – Heckansicht, 30. November 2014, Ratingen.jpg|Rear view

File:Mercedes-Benz A 250 Sport (W 176) – Innenraum, 13. April 2013, Düsseldorf.jpg|Interior

{{clear}}

{{Infobox automobile

| name = Fourth generation

| image = Mercedes-Benz A 180 Progressive (W 177) – f 16032019.jpg

| production = April 2018 – present

| caption = 2019 Mercedes-Benz A 180 Progressive 5-door hatchback pre-facelift (Germany)

| model_years = 2018–present

| assembly =

| platform = MFA2

| body_style = 5-door hatchback
4-door sedan

| model_code = W177

}}

{{main|Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W177)}}

The W177 hatchback was launched in 2018 as the successor to the W176 Mercedes-Benz A-Class and sales commenced in March 2018.{{Cite news|url=https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/first-official-pictures/mercedes-benz/new-2018-mercedes-a-class-first-official-pictures-and-specs/|title=New Mercedes A-class (2018): 'L' saloon revealed in China|work=CAR Magazine|access-date=12 June 2018|language=en}} It is available as a 5-door hatchback (W177 model code), 4-door sedan (V177),{{Cite news|url=https://www.motor1.com/news/225356/mercedes-a-class-sedan-spied/|title=Mercedes A-Class Sedan Caught On Camera Ahead 2018 Launch|work=Motor1.com|access-date=12 June 2018|language=en}} and a long-wheelbase sedan exclusive to China (Z177).{{Cite news|url=https://paultan.org/2018/04/24/mercedes-benz-a-class-l-sedan-debuts-in-beijing/|title=Z177 Mercedes-Benz A-Class L Sedan revealed in Beijing - alternate version for other markets in H2 2018|date=24 April 2018|work=Paul Tan's Automotive News|access-date=12 June 2018|language=en-US}} In North America, the hatchback is available in Canada and Mexico, but in the US, only the sedan is available.

The fourth generation A-Class hatchback was unveiled to media in February 2018 in Amsterdam ahead of its public debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show.{{Cite web|url=http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/mercedes/a-class/96514/new-2018-mercedes-a-class-prices-specs-release-date|title = New 2018 Mercedes A-Class revealed}} At launch Mercedes-Benz revealed the vehicle's "predator face", which is also implemented in the C257 CLS and C118 CLA, which will not spread throughout the brand's entire range of cars.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motor1.com/news/229426/mercedes-a-class-predator-front/|title = Mercedes A-Class Has "Predator" Face You Won't See on All Models}}

File:Mercedes-Benz A 180 Progressive (W 177) – h 16032019.jpg|Rear view

File:Mercedes-Benz A 200 Monrepos 2018 IMG 0081.jpg|Interior

{{clear}}

{{reflist|30em}}

{{refbegin}}

• {{Barrett-IBG-MB-2}}
• {{Bols-MBP}}
• {{MBPersonenwagen-4}}
• {{Hofner-Schrader-MBA-2}}
• {{Deutsche Autos-6}}
• {{Typenkompass MB-2 |author-mask=7}}
• {{Niemann-PvMB}}
• {{Schlegelmilch-M-2013}}
• {{Taylor-MB 1990s}}
• {{cite book |last1=Vieweg |first1=Christof |title=Alles über die Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse |trans-title=Everything about the Mercedes-Benz A-Class |series=Technik transparent series |date=2001 |publisher=DaimlerChrysler |location=Stuttgart |isbn=3932786165 |edition=3rd |language=de}}

{{refend}}

{{refbegin}}

• {{cite book |last=Etzold |first=Hans-Rüdiger |title=Mercedes A-Klasse: von 10/97 bis 8/04 |series=So wird's gemacht, Band 124 |year=2019 |edition=9th |publisher=Delius Klasing |location=Bielefield, Germany |isbn= 9783768812917 |language=de }}
• {{cite book |last=Etzold |first=Hans-Rüdiger |title=Mercedes A-Klasse / B-Klasse: A-Klasse von 9/04 bis 4/12 - B-Klasse von 7/05 bis 6/11 |series=So wird's gemacht, Band 140 |year=2021 |edition=8th |publisher=Delius Klasing |location=Bielefield, Germany |isbn=9783768819190 |language=de |author-mask=10}}
• {{cite book |last=Etzold |first=Hans-Rüdiger |title=Mercedes A-Klasse: von 09/12 bis 05/17 |series=So wird's gemacht, Band 146 |year=2021 |edition=1st |publisher=Delius Klasing |location=Bielefield, Germany |isbn=9783667116857 |language=de |author-mask=10}}
• {{cite book |last1=Gill |first1=Peter T. |title=Mercedes-Benz A140 A160 A190 & A210 1998 to 2004 (S to 54 reg) Petrol & Diesel Owners Workshop Manual |series=Haynes Service and Repair Manual Series |year=2014 |publisher=Haynes |location=Sparkford, UK |isbn=9780857339522}}
• {{cite book |last=Korp |first=Dieter |title=Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse: Benzinmotoren, 1,4 Liter, 82PS, 1,6 Liter, 102 PS, 1,9 Liter, 125 PS; Dieselmotoren, 1,7 Liter CDI 60/90 PS, 1,7 Liter CDI 75/95 PS; ab Modelljahr 1998 |series=Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst series, Band 210 |year=2004 |edition=1st |publisher=Motorbuch Verlag |location=Stuttgart |isbn=3613019728 |language=de}}
• {{cite book |last=Korp |first=Dieter |title=Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse (W 169): Benziner und Diesel, ab Modelljahr 2004 |series=Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst series, Band 247 |year=2017 |edition= |publisher=Motorbuch Verlag |location=Stuttgart |isbn=9783613025189 |language=de}}
• {{cite book |last=Randall |first=Martyn |title=Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sept 2012 to May 2018 (62 to 18 reg) Petrol & Diesel Owners Workshop Manual |series=Haynes Service and Repair Manual Series |year=2020 |publisher=Haynes |location=Sparkford, UK |isbn=9781785214295}}
• {{cite book |last=Russek |first=Peter |title=Mercedes-Benz A-Class A140, A140L, A160, A160L, A190, A190 L 1.4, 1.6, 1.9 Litre 1998 to 2004 |series=Pocket Mechanic Vehicle Manual |year=2006 |publisher=Peter Russek Publications |location=Caversham, Reading, Berkshire, UK |isbn=1898780420}}
• {{cite book |last=Russek |first=Peter |title=Mercedes-Benz A-Class – A160 CDI, A170 CDI, A170 L CDI, 1.7 Litre CDI Engine 1998 to 2004 |series=Pocket Mechanic Vehicle Manual |year=2006 |publisher=Peter Russek Publications |location=Caversham, Reading, Berkshire, UK |isbn=1898780471 |author-mask=7}}
• {{cite book |title=Mercedes A-Klasse (W 168) und Vaneo |series=Reparaturanleitung series, Band 1286. |year=2011 |publisher=Verlag Bucheli |location=Zug, Switzerland |isbn=9783716820858 |language=de}}
• {{cite book |title=Mercedes A-Klasse (W 169) Benziner und Diesel |series=Reparaturanleitung series, Band 1287. |year=2007 |publisher=Verlag Bucheli |location=Zug, Switzerland |isbn=9783716820926 |language=de}}
• {{Bentley-MB Technical}}

{{refend}}

{{Commons category|Mercedes-Benz A-Class}}

• [https://www.mercedes-benz.com/en/vehicles/passenger-cars/a-class/ Official website] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308122510/https://www.mercedes-benz.com/en/vehicles/passenger-cars/a-class/ |date=8 March 2021 }}

{{Mercedes-Benz}}

{{Mercedes-Benz timeline 1990–2019}}

{{Mercedes-Benz timeline 2020 to date}}

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