Mercedes to launch Golf challenger

Mercedes are set to launch a revamped A-Class to rival the likes of the VW Golf and Audi A3. The all-new model will be aimed at young, hip car buyers who want a quality but fun vehicle.

With spy shots already released in the media, it's clear that the A-Class will be a stylish offering, with a completely different aesthetic to the current model. A large front grille, LED headlights and sharp lines make the new A-Class an exciting challenger.

Under the bonnet, it's expected that the car will be available in petrol and diesel models with eco-friendly stop start technology as standard. Inside, the car is reported to be typically German, with a matte black finish and a quality feel.

Mercedes global sales and marketing chief, Joachim Schmidt spoke to Auto Express about the new car in Mercedes garage, saying: ''Our current A-Class and B-Class will be replaced by a new platform for four totally different cars defining new segments for Mercedes.''

Describing the change in market focus, Schmidt said: ''If you want young customers, you need to have a brand that is sexy and sporty - the reason we didn't get this customer before was, in my opinion, not a brand issue, but a product issue.''

The new A-Class is rumoured to be on the market by 2012, just in time to really tempt car buyers away from the Golf Mk7.

Previous news stories

I thought the staff in the office were very helpful throughout the process of selling my car. On the day, the lady who I dealt with was very friendly...all in all I was very satisfied.

Neil Whitehead, Liverpool, MAZDA 2

Your team were professional and polite. I needed a quick sale, very quick, as I had a replacement vehicle being delivered the next day. The transaction all went very smoothly from my perspective.

Mark Allen, Brentwood, Ford Focus