Features minor design changes.
Mercedes is currently prepping a facelift for the Mercedes A-Class hatchback, and seen here is the range-topping 2016 Mercedes A45 AMG with the front end and rear lights covered up, suggesting that the facelift is very conservative.
From the spyshots, courtesy of Carpital Brothers, we can infer that the front-end will be slightly revised with new intake design and front splitter. The headlamps will look similar to the outgoing model, although it could feature new LED lighting and sleek LED DRLs.
While the sides remain untouched, the LED taillamps at the rear will feature a re-designed cluster. Also, the A45 AMG's lower diffuser get a slight nip and tuck for a more aggressive look.
Inside, the only likely changes are Merc's new 3-spoke steering wheel from the new CLA45 Shooting Brake, updated COMAND infotainment system with WiFi Hotspot function, new Garmin navigation software, and more interior colors for customization.
Reports suggest that AMG will fettle with the already-powerful 2.0-liter turbo petrol to return to the power lead in the hot hatch segment, after the title was taken away by the 362 hp Audi RS3. Reports suggest that the next A45 will deliver around 381 hp, which is 26 horses more than the current model's 355 bhp, and 450 Nm. It will retain the seven-speed dual-clutch autobox as well as the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.
Some reports say that an even hotter "A45 AMG S" variant, whose output could cross the 400 hp mark, thus rivaling the production-approved VW Golf R400, is being developed.
Also See: Mercedes GLC – IAB Rendering
The 2016 Mercedes A-Class range, including the A45 AMG, is expected to break cover at the upcoming 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, and launch in the German market on September 26, reportedly. For the Indian market, Mercedes will launch the facelifted A-Class next year, and could continue selling the model in the A180 CDI, A180 petrol and A200 CDI variants.
Mercedes A-Class - Image Gallery
[Source: Carpital Brothers]
