Mercedes-Benz to spin eight different A-Class-based models

THE new fourth-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class is just the start of what will become a booming family for Mercedes-Benz.

The man responsible for the look of the new hatch, Gorden Wagener, says at least eight different models will be based on the same architecture.

A new platform was developed for the A-Class, which is capable of front-, rear-, and all-wheel drive powertrains, and electrification.

Speaking to Australian media, the head of Mercedes-Benz’s design was confident each new model would be visually appealing.

“All vehicles built on this platform – I can assure you there will be at least eight – will be stunning,” he explained.

“When we started on this architecture we built all of the variants to ensure all of them worked in terms of proportion and differentiation.”

It’s likely a higher-riding GLA will follow the A-Class, along with a four-door sedan, CLA four-door coupe, and a production version of the all-electric EQA concept which made its debut last year.

But don’t hold your breath for a cabriolet A-Class, or a CLA with half the doors.

“Honestly, I don’t think a convertible A-Class would look good. I would not do it,” Wagner commented. “A CLA two-door would not be a CLA, because that car is a four-door coupe.”

Wagner was adamant none the eight new A-Class derived models would share a similar appearance to the fourth-gen hatch.

“The CLA and GLA and other derivatives will have a different face to this new A-Class,” he explained.

“Everything is always a trade-off between a manufacturer’s look, and product character. What type of car is it? What is the message? It’s like a chessboard with different players and functions.”

Comments linking the new A-Class’ looks with the CLS, which was first revealed last year, were immediate at the hatch’s unveiling in Amsterdam last week. Each share a distinct new design language, which Wagner says is reserved for vehicles tailored to more adventurous buyers.

“The predator face comes on just two cars, the A-Class and the CLS, it is dedicated to our most progressive and design-orientated cars,” he said.

“They are very much on opposite ends of the range so they don’t hurt each other.”

Don’t expect the look to flow into other models in the Mercedes range however, with Wagner flat out denying a C-, E-, or S-Class could adopt the new design language.

“We have harmonised our three limousines in terms of design, and do that very consciously. The C-, E-, and S-Class are very homogenous on purpose, and it was a successful decision,” he added.

“But, outside that range we will be trying different things.”