Targeted to be launched in Singapore in the fourth quarter of 2018, the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is as youthful and dynamic as ever, but grown-up and comfortable like never before. It completely redefines modern luxury in the compact class, and revolutionises interior design. The purist, surface-accentuating design of the new A-Class is the next step in the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy of Sensual Purity.

On the basis of a compact two-box design, optimised dimensions and proportions have led to a new interpretation of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class' design.

The exterior of the new A-Class stands for sportiness, dynamism and emotion. The progressive front design with a low bonnet, flat LED headlamps (optional) with chrome elements and torch-like daytime driving lamps ensures an emotionally appealing and alluring appearance.

The vehicle is visually extended by the longer wheelbase and character line along the side. The bonnet slopes down more heavily than in the preceding model series, emphasising the dynamic, upright front. The vehicle has a wider look at the rear end thanks to a more heavily waisted greenhouse which also emphasises the shoulders, and to the wider-spaced rear reflectors in the modular, two-section rear bumper.

The interior of the new A-Class is completely redefined with its modern, avant garde look. Mercedes-Benz has taken a completely new approach, revolutionising the compact class from the inside with a new feeling of spaciousness. The unique interior architecture is shaped in particular by the avant garde design of the dashboard.

The new A-Class is the first Mercedes-Benz model to feature the completely new multimedia system MBUX - Mercedes-Benz User Experience - which also ushers in a new era in Mercedes me connectivity.

A unique feature of this system is its ability to learn thanks to artificial intelligence. MBUX is individualisable and adapts to suit the user. It thus creates an emotional connection between the vehicle, driver and passengers.

Despite its sporty look, the new A-Class has considerably more utility value. More shoulder, elbow and headroom plus easier access to the rear are clear benefits, as is the larger and more family and recreation-friendly luggage compartment. All-round visibility has also been considerably improved. This enhances both safety and the impression of spaciousness.

The capacity of the luggage compartment behind the rear seats is 370 litres, 29 litres more than in the preceding model. Thanks to two-section rear lights, the loading aperture is 200mm wider than before, and the luggage compartment floor is 115mm longer.

The new A-Class has the very latest driving assistance systems with cooperative driver support, giving it the highest level of active safety in this segment with functions adopted from the S-Class. For the first time, the A-Class is able to drive semi-autonomously in certain situations.

All the new A-Class models are powered by new, efficient engines. Two new four-cylinder petrol engines are available at market launch and expected for Singapore.

The first is a 159bhp, 250Nm 1.4-litre for the A200. Its innovations include cylinder shutoff (initially in conjunction with the 7G-DCT transmission) and the delta shape of the cylinder head. The second new petrol engine is a 2.0-litre for the A250 with 221bhp and 350Nm of torque. New features include CAMTRONIC for the intake camshaft. Both petrol engine series have a particulate filter as standard.

Also new is the A180d's 1.5-litre, four-cylinder diesel with 112bhp and up to 260Nm of torque. However, it's highly unlikely that this variant will make its way into Singapore. Further new engines will follow.