Mercedes-Benz A-class and B-class facelifted

Highlights:

• More reach and faster loading for plugins
• Petrol versions from now on always mild-hybrid
• Slightly richer standard equipment
• Latest version MBUX infotainment system, without touchpad
• Tightened down on details inside and outside, also for AMG variants

The Mercedes-Benz A and B class were launched in 2018 and 2019 respectively. That means that the time is right for the facelift that we have already seen coming. Mercedes’ little ones can prepare themselves for the last few years in which the brand from Stuttgart carries these models with a detailed interior and exterior. The expectation is that Mercedes will not come up with successors for the A and B class after 2025.

added point

On the outside of the cars, Mercedes is not surprising and we are dealing with a classic facelift. All variants (A-class sedan and hatchback and B-class) are fitted with new light units. Where the LED daytime running lights of the A-class previously ran in a corner, it now follows a straight line. The daytime running lights of the B-class are also drawn slightly differently. For both models, from now on, the rear lights will always house LED lights. That wasn’t the case before.

Apart from a new hood with two ‘ridges’ (or ‘power bulges’, as Mercedes calls them) for the A-class, the other changes to the appearance are subtle. For example, the layout of the grille is now slightly quieter and the A-class gets a slightly different front bumper. Mercedes-Benz is also making minor changes to the underside of the rear bumper in the A-class, so that the decorative strip on the version without the AMG package now connects to the quasi-exhaust trim pieces. For the AMG-line version, the contrasting strip disappears. There are some new wheel designs to choose from for all versions.

Touchpad disappears

The facelifts have some similarities on the inside of both models. For example, both A and B class get a new design for the seats and Mercedes puts a number of new upholstery colors on the option list. The main changes to the interior include a new steering wheel, wrapped in Nappa leather as standard, and the new MBUX system. Until now, Mercedes screwed the outgoing MBUX system in its A and B class.

A new steering wheel and a storage compartment in the old place of the touchpad.

From now on, this system also offers a standard view behind the car, because Mercedes will now always equip both models with a reversing camera. From now on, operation will only take place via the touchscreen, the buttons on the steering wheel or with voice control: the touchpad on the center tunnel disappears. Mercedes’ latest version of its MBUX system includes more ease of use, faster operation, more options and a more extensive voice assistant. Things are also changing behind the scenes. For example, the Germans have improved the driving assistance systems of the A and B class where necessary, and the lane keeping system would be a lot more refined from now on.

More reach

As for the powertrains of the two models, the change is mainly found in the electrical part. For example, the petrol models after the facelift are all mild-hybrids, which means that a 48V battery and a starter generator provide smoother starting and driving off and offer the option of ‘sailing’, with the petrol engine switching off completely.

Mercedes improved the battery pack of the plug-in hybrid models A250e and B250e. Despite the fact that it remains the same in terms of capacity, the range increases as a result. The A class will now travel 72 to 82 kilometers on a single charge, the B class 67 to 77 kilometers (WLTP). The charging speeds of both models have also been improved, allowing charging with up to 11 kW on an AC charger and up to 22 kW on a DC charger. The latest electrical news: The 250e powertrain’s electric motor has been upgraded, increasing its peak power by approximately 7 horsepower.

AMGs

Finally, the AMG variants of the A-class were not left behind. Both the A35 (sedan and hatchback) and the A45 (hatchback only) will receive the same new light units as the less sporty versions. In addition, all new Mercedes-AMGs, including the A-class, will from now on have the new AMG logo above the grille instead of a Mercedes logo. In addition, the A35 now has an eight- and not a seven-speed transmission. The A45 already had it.

The Street Style Edition of the A45 S makes a nice splash with its bright orange details.

To complete the celebration, Mercedes-Benz is launching a limited edition Street Style Edition of the A45 S AMG. It is loaded with options, always in matte gray, equipped with the aero package and – unique for this invitation – bright orange details. For the connoisseurs among the very last A-class buyers, shall we say.

The prices of the renewed Mercedes-Benz A and B class will follow at the end of this month. The facelifted versions will be available at the dealer from the beginning of 2023.