Mercedes-Benz India has officially launched the special editions of its A-Class and B-Class models today i.e. on 24th June 2014. These new editions are based on A-Class A 180 CDI and B-Class B 180 CDI and will be named as ‘Edition 1’. While mechanically these new variants will be same as ongoing respective models, some cosmetic changes have been done in their interior and exterior profiles. As per the company, only 100 units of these Edition 1 variants will be built and sold in country.
Price:
While the ongoing A-class and B-Class diesel variants are priced at 24.77 lakhs and 26.83 lakhs respectively, this newly launched ‘Edition 1’ trim costs at 26.78 lakhs (A-Class) and 29.96 lakhs (B-Class). These new prices are of ex-showroom New Delhi.
Engine details:
As mentioned above, both the editions will be based on their diesel variants and there are no mechanical changes. Like the ongoing variants, both A-Class & B-Class’ special editions are powered by 2143cc, 2.2 liter 4-cyl diesel mill developing the max power of 107bhp @3200-4000 rpm and peak torque of 250Nm @1400-2800 rpm. The engines will be mated to a 7-speed, dual clutch auto transmission gearbox. The B-Class Edition 1 also offers 19 km/l of impressive claimed mileage.
Space & Dimension:
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class Edition 1 is 4292mm long, 1780mm wide and 1433mm tall. It carries wheelbase of 2699mm and boot space of 341 liters which also can be extended up to 1157 liters by folding down the rear seats.
While Mercedes-Benz B-Class Edition 1 on the other side is 4359mm long, 1786mm wide and 1557mm tall. The car gets wheelbase of 2699mm and boot space of 486 liters which can reach up to 1545 liters by folding down the rear seats.
Interior & Exterior:
Apart from the entire features range armed in these A-Class and B-Class models, these new special editions will also get panoramic sunroof, new reverse camera, electrically adjustable front passenger seat, rear seat centre armrest and some more.
Also, B-Class edition will also get rear seat entertainment package in addition. Further, Mercedes is equipping matt black ‘Edition 1’ badge in these new variants to make it different from regular A-Class and B-Class models. The A-Class Edition 1 also has ECO start/stop function as standard, which makes the A-Class ‘Edition 1’ particularly economical.
On the outside, the glossy-black exterior mirror housing, newly designed17” 5-double spoke alloy wheels for the A-class while 16” for the B-class along with some more modified features will mark their presence.
Colors:
The Edition 1 trim of both A and B classes will be available in three colors- Jupiter Red, Silver and White.
Safety:
With 7 airbags, the ‘Edition 1’ features ESP (Electronic Stability Program), helping to minimize the loss of control of the car during emergency braking, ASR (Acceleration Skid Control), electric parking brake, ABS (Antilock Braking System), Brake Assist System, Attention Assist and Hill Start Assist.
CarZoom’s take:
It is being said that this special editions are coming due to many reasons, first ongoing models have less ground clearance which is not being liked by the customers since their launch, and second the A-Class & B-Class didn’t get any updates within one year of their launch. However, the exact reason is well known by the company but we definitely wish Mercedes-Benz to get sales hike with these launches. Till then, stay tuned for latest updates.
Boris Fitz, Vice President, Sales & Network Development, Mercedes-Benz India commented, “The A-Class and B-Class New Generation Cars successfully captured the imagination of young Indians who were new to luxury motoring and delineated the changing preference of the youth in today’s social milieu, who increasingly prefer compact luxury as an integral part of their lifestyle. The launch of the ‘Edition 1’ is also an acknowledgement of the strategic significance of the A-Class and B-Class in Mercedes-Benz’s product strategy. We are confident that the New Generation Cars will continue its run of popularity and will introduce new customers to our brand.”