Mercedes-Benz adds two more fuel-efficient models to new A-Class range; 5% improvement in both diesel and gasoline models

10 January 2013

A 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY. Click to enlarge.

Just a few months after the launch of the new A-Class, Mercedes-Benz is now adding two BlueEFFICIENCY Edition models to the range. The new A 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition features a fuel consumption figure of 3.6 l/100 km (65 mpg US) according to the MVEG cycle and CO₂ emissions of 92 g/km—making the new A 180 the most fuel-efficient combustion-engined Mercedes-Benz yet, according to the company.

The A 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition gasoline model, with consumption of 5.2 l/100 km (45 mpg US) and 120 g of CO₂/km is likewise one of the most efficient vehicles in its class. The models will go on sale on 1 February 2013, while the first vehicles will reach customers in March 2013.

The fuel consumption of the BlueEFFICIENCY Edition models is lower than for the basic vehicles—by 0.2 (diesel) and 0.3 l/100 km (gasoline) respectively—representing an improvement of five percent in each case.

Factors contributing to this include a lowering of the Cd value of the A-Class from 0.27—already a low for hatchback vehicles in this segment—to 0.26. Additional aerodynamic optimization measures include, for example, the partial covering of the upper section of the radiator grille, aerodynamically shaped spring link coverings that improve the flow of air along the underbody at the rear axle, and a suspension that has been lowered by 15 millimeters.

The generator management system has also been revised, as has the manual transmission, which now features longer gear ratios in the higher gears.

BlueEFFICIENCY Edition special models have also been available in the Mercedes-Benz C- and E-Class since late 2012: the C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition (from 4.1 l/100 km (57 mpg US) and 109 g CO₂/km) and the E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition (4.5 l/100 km (52 mpg US), 119 g CO₂/km).