2019 MERCEDES A 250 4MATIC

Mercedes-Benz has added an extra variant to its A-Class range. The new A 250 4MATIC joins the A 200 but with significantly more power as well as the extra traction from all-wheel drive.

The A 250 4MATIC develops 165 kW of power and 350 Nm of torque, well up on the 120 kW and 250 Nm from the A 200.

Transmission is through a 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic to all four wheels.

The 4MATIC system has been upgraded for increased efficiency as well as to allow extra driver input through the Dynamic Select switch.

4MATIC components include the power take-off to the rear axle, which is integrated into the dual-clutch transmission, and the rear axle differential with an integrated electromechanical multi-plate clutch.

Drive torque distribution is fully variable between front and rear axles. Depending on the driving situation, 100 per cent of the drive torque can be directed to the front axle or up to 50 per cent can be directed to the rear axle if the friction coefficient suddenly changes.

A 250 4MATIC has a four-link rear suspension.

Other standard features include 18-inch aero alloy wheels; MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system with intelligent voice control and displayed on a pair of 10.25-inch digital screens; satellite navigation; keyless start/stop; and wireless phone charging.

Unfortunately we weren’t able to attend the launch of the new A 250 but will get into one as soon as possible and report our drive impressions.

Safety equipment includes nine airbags; LED headlights; Active Brake Assist with semi-autonomous braking; Parktronic parking assist; active lane keep; blind spot assist with exit warning; traffic sign assist; adaptive high beam assist and reversing camera.

At $49,500 (plus on-road costs) the A 250 4MATIC offers excellent value being just $2300 dearer than the A 200.

Additional models, including an entry-level A 180 and an enhanced A 250 will arrive here in February 2019.