Mercedes-Benz will debut a brand-new generation of the A-Class hatchback in 2028, according to a new report from our sister publication, Autocar UK. The next-gen A-Class will serve as Mercedes-Benz’s global entry-level offering and be offered with hybrid and EV powertrains, the latter of which will butt heads with the upcoming Audi A2 e-tron hatchback.
- Next-gen A-Class hatchback to be underpinned by new CLA’s MMA platform
- A-Class hybrid likely to use 1.5-litre turbo-petrol mill, EV to offer 58kWh and 85kWh batteries
- Platform shift to bring longer wheelbase, wider tracks, higher ground clearance, etc
- Next-gen A-Class may be renamed to CSA
2028 Mercedes-Benz A-Class platform and powertrain details
The 2028 A-Class is expected to use the same Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA) that underpins the new Mercedes-Benz CLA, which is offered in both hybrid and EV guises globally; only the CLA Electric is headed to India at the moment.
New A-Class hybrid versions may output up to 212hp
It’s currently difficult to predict the A-Class hybrid’s powertrain, but it could be similar to that of the CLA hybrid – a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, a 1.3kWh battery, and either a front-mounted (FWD) or dual motor (AWD) setup. Mild hybrid variants are also expected to be part of new A-Class line-up, powered by the same engine. Power outputs could range from 156hp to 212hp for the ICE A-Class variants.
Next-gen A-Class EV to be offered with RWD as standard
As for the A-Class EV, it’s understood to utilise the same 800V platform as the CLA Electric, with 58kWh LFP or 85kWh NMC battery options. The A-Class EV is likely be equipped with a 224hp rear motor (RWD) as standard, along with dual-motor (AWD) variants pushing up to 354hp. However, it’s yet to determined whether the A-Class EV will use the 2-speed gearbox used in the CLA Electric and new GLB EV, or if Mercedes-Benz opts for a simpler single-speed transmission instead.
High-performance AMG versions expected
Like the current model, the next-gen A-Class will also be fettled by Mercedes’ AMG division to spawn performance-focused ICE and EV variants, with the latter potentially outputting over 500hp.
Upgraded rear suspension
Lastly, the new A-Class is expected to feature a new five-link suspension setup at the rear for greater ride comfort and handling, though lower ICE variants could use the same torsion-beam rear suspension as that of the current model.
2028 Mercedes-Benz A-Class design details
Larger dimensions, roomier cabin
Shifting to the MMA platform is likely to result in a dimension bump for the next-gen A-Class hatchback, particularly a longer wheelbase and wider tracks for increased interior space. The design itself is described as "traditional in form but modern in detailing," with a purported emphasis on evolution instead of revolution.
Up front, the 2028 A-Class will likely adopt a similar ‘shark-nose’ fascia as that of the new CLA and GLC, while the side profile will eschew the CLA’s frameless doors in favour of conventional framed ones. There may also be some plastic cladding on the wheel arches, along with a sloping roofline and angled rear windscreen.
Increased ride height across the board
Interestingly, the new A-Class’ ground clearance will be raised to accommodate the battery pack in the EV version, with the hybrid variants sporting a similar ride height to maintain visual consistency. This will result in raised seating positions, but Autocar UK’s sources claim that the A-Class won’t feel like a crossover.
Coming to the interior, easy ingress/egress and better outward visibility are described as key aims for the next-gen A-Class. Like the current model, it will offer seating for up to five occupants, and a sliding/adjustable rear bench is said to be under consideration too.
2028 Mercedes-Benz A-Class launch details
Until the next-gen A-Class arrives, the current model will remain on sale. This is a notable development, as Mercedes-Benz had originally planned to discontinue the current A-Class in 2025 in a bid to focus on EVs and streamline its ICE range to higher-end, more luxurious offerings.
Declining EV sales granted the A-Class a new lease on life
However, the global slump in EV demand has seemingly prompted Mercedes-Benz to refocus on ICE models, including keeping the A-Class alive until 2028 and beyond. Notably, the A-Class nameplate being retained for the next-gen model is reportedly up in the air, as Mercedes-Benz is considering aligning the hatchback with the three-letter naming convention of the CLA, GLB, and GLA.
Should Mercedes-Benz opt in favour of the three-letter nomenclature, the 2028 A-Class may be christened the CSA (Compact Sports A-Class). Whatever it ends up being named, the next-gen A-Class is expected to be manufactured at Mercedes-Benz’s Kecskemét plant in Hungary, where the CLA and GLA are also built.
In India, the current-gen A-Class hatchback was sold solely in AMG A 45 S form. Of the A-Class line-up, only the A-Class Limousine remains available in the Indian market, priced from Rs 44.45 lakh onwards (ex-showroom).
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