Mercedes A-Class (2028): Will the entry-level Benz become a crossover?

(Motorsport-Total.com/Motor1) – The new generation of the Mercedes A-Class could return to its roots. According to initial preliminary information from German media, the most compact model with a star is said to revive the spirit (and the shapes) of the very first A-Class and develop into a crossover with hybrid and purely electric drive.

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A significant change that is likely to spark discussions – especially after more than a decade of compact design. The latter has secured the smallest Benz an important share of the premium compact market. Will Mercedes, like Audi with the A2, return to the origin?

Return to the origins

Our rendering gives a first impression of what the future A-Class could look like, expected for 2028. Based on initial information that has not yet been officially confirmed, our graphic reconstruction combines the design of the latest Mercedes generation with an almost van-like basic shape.

According to preliminary information, the length is expected to be around 4.40 meters. This would keep the model compact but could likely offer a more usable interior and a more generous trunk.

The front of the Mercedes adopts some elements of the new CLA, especially in the shape of the grille and the light signature. In our design proposal, the roofline remains quite stretched, but the body is more upright than the CLA. The result is likely to be a modern five-door that is at the same time more practical for everyday use and also offers noticeable advantages in interior quality and space.

MMA platform, petrol and electric drive

Under the body, the MMA platform is expected to work, the same architecture as in the new compact model family of the Swabians, which includes the CLA, CLA Shooting Brake, as well as the new GLA and GLB.

The key feature of the MMA is that it can accommodate both pure electric drives and electrified combustion engines. The electric versions are expected to use an 800-volt architecture, with estimated outputs of about 220 to 350 hp and potential ranges between around 550 and 700 kilometers – depending on the configuration.

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For the combustion engines, a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine is likely to be used, combined with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and a dual-clutch automatic transmission. In the CLA, this powertrain family goes up to 190 hp, also with optional 4Matic all-wheel drive.

Interior and prices

There are also likely to be many similarities with the new Mercedes generation in the interior. At the center of the user experience is MB.OS, the in-house operating system that is supposed to control infotainment, connectivity, driver assistance, and functions based on artificial intelligence.

However, it remains open how far Mercedes wants to go with screens. The CLA relies on a very technology-oriented layout with a dashboard dominated by displays, but the A-Class could opt for a somewhat simpler solution to keep costs and price within limits.

And precisely the price is one of the most important elements of the project. The future A-Class is supposed to position itself below the CLA and become the entry-level model in the Mercedes range – especially for a younger clientele. If the CLA with petrol starts at around 47,000 euros, the new A-Class could start just under 40,000 euros. More information is expected in the coming months.

Mercedes polishing up the model range:
Mercedes C-Class (2026) gets a major facelift
Mercedes GLA (2026): New generation starts from 48,600 euros

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