New 2019 Mercedes-AMG A 35 Saloon joins hatch in line-up
The new Mercedes-AMG A 35 Saloon arrives to take on the Audi S3 Saloon with 302bhp
This is the Mercedes-AMG A 35 4Matic saloon, the second model to be launched under AMG’s newly-established 35 range, and a direct rival to the Audi S3 Saloon. UK sales will commence in late summer, with prices starting from around £36,500.
Joining the hatchback in the range Mercedes-AMG says it’s aimed at younger buyers, combining the brand’s sportiness with more space for passengers and their luggage. The styling is familiar from A 35 hatch with the biggest changes occurring at the rear, where a boot lip spoiler, rear diffuser and two large tailpipes have been added. It rides on 18-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels.
• New Mercedes-AMG A 35 hatchback review
It’s powered by a 302bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine that develops 400Nm of torque. Like its hatchback cousin, the entry-level AMG can hit 155mph and 0-62mph in 4.7 seconds. That makes the A 35 Saloon two seconds quicker from 0-62mph than the Audi S3 Saloon. Power is delivered through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox to Merc’s 4Matic four-wheel drive system.
The A 35 Saloon’s front suspension comprises an aluminium wishbone with one spring strut and one tie rod, while the rear is served by a multi-link rear axle.
A three-mode AMG Ride Control suspension system provides manually set and automatic adaptive adjustable dampers, an option on this model. As expected these range from Comfort to Sport+ mode.
As predicted, a high-performance braking system is carried over from the A 35 hatchback. Front 350mm and rear 330mm brake discs all come internally ventilated and perforated, which dissipate the heat under hard use.
The cabin is largely unchanged from the regular A-Class hatch, but some AMG unique features such as the flat-bottom steering wheel and AMG sports seats appear. Merc’s familiar 12.3-inch dual digital displays on the dash provide access to the firm’s new MBUX infotainment system with voice control.
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