rental car class

A-Class aimed at younger buyer

Mercedes-Benz expect the new A-Class to introduce the brand to a new and younger generation of customers who traditionally see a Merc as a car for their parents' generation, writes Trish Whelan.

The launch plan features heavily on Facebook and smart phone App technology to allow prospective customers feel at home as they scroll through all the relevant information and select the model that suits them best.

And when they arrive at a dealership, they enter a communications corner, complete with iPad, giving information on car colours, and interior trends. Ciaran Allen of Mercedes-Benz points out "It should feel it's part of their modern world and not a strange place. It won't be like when their parents went to buy a car."

The new A-Class, which arrives this month, is very different to its predecessor which had a few problems. It now sits closer to the ground, and has a distinctly sporty, youthful appearance. Built on the B-Class platform, it comes with lots of high-tech functionality like iPhone Siri voice-activated units, and iPad music and Apps can be played through the car's infotainment system.

Models include an A180 petrol version priced at €26,435 and an A180 CDI diesel version at €28,550. The diesel is expected to take the spotlight in Ireland thanks in part to its greener C02 emissions of just 98g/km placing it in Band A for annual road tax.

Both models will come in a choice of three specifications and