Mercedes-AMG A35 hot hatchback revealed ahead of Paris Motor Show
The Mercedes-AMG A35 hatchback has been unveiled before its presentation at the upcoming Paris Motor Show. Mercedes-Benz had let out a few teaser over the last week as build up for the unveil, but most details are now known.
The A35 stands out with the new bright yellow launch colour scheme. This shade has never really been associated with AMG cars before this and highlight's the A35's more youthful appeal. Other noticeable exterior features which set this car apart from the regular A-Class are the diamond pattern grille, the aggressive bumpers with the small fins on the edges and the prominent rear wing. These design traits are accentuated by the front splitter, side skirts, diffuser and 18-inch AMG alloy wheels.
The A35 is powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder which pumps out 306PS and 400 Nm. This is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The A35 can get from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.7s and onto an electronically limited top speed of 250 kmph.
Improvements made to the A35 over the standard A-Class are a new AWD system that can send up to 50% power to each axle. There are larger brakes, adaptive dampers are an option and brake-based torque-vectoring is also available. The A35 is also stiffer than the standard car with its aluminium shear panel and additional bracing under the engine.
The interiors are the now regular AMG fair. There is and AMG-spec steering wheel. Additional drive modes and an in-built GPS-based lap timer is present. The usual AMG trimmings like sportier seats and interior trim are also accounted for.
The A35 will be the halfway AMG model in the A-Class line-up in the same vein as the C43 is for the C-Class. It is is the new entry-point to the AMG brand and will be joined by the A 45 and A 45 S models in the near future. These should bump up power to over 400PS.
The A35 will be Mercedes-AMG's contender in the very popular hot hatchback. There have never been as many and as competent hot hatchbacks as in the last few years and the A35 will have its work cut out in making a mark for itself against rivals which cover everything from the Hyundai i30 N up to the Audi S3.
