Mercedes-Benz is ready to unveil the facelifted A-Class range as evidenced by our spy shots. However, the German automaker is already working on the next and complete electric generation of the compact hatchback set to be the smallest member of the EQ range.
Mercedes recently announced that it would reduce the range of its compact models from seven bodystyles to four, changing its name to “Entry Luxury”. According to a recent report, the five-door hatchback is expected to take the EQA compact SUV into a new low-slang alternative.
Mercedes’ next-generation compact models will leverage the new MMA architecture, which will lead to significant advances in technology and performance. Although MMA will still be compatible with ICE, it will be “electric-first” as described by Ola Calenius, CEO of Mercedes. Thus, the packaging will be better than current EQA and EQB electric SUVs using an electrified version of the ICE-centric MFA2 platform.
See also: Mercedes Teases Maybach SL, SL Speedster, EQE SUV, and entry-level luxury sedan
According to Autocar, the small footprint of the electric hatchback compared to the larger MMA-based models means it will be fitted with a smaller battery. However, a significantly increased density, a combination of advanced aerodynamics and lightweight components, will allow for a competitive range for the smallest Mercedes offers. The automaker has confirmed that the technology featured in the Vision EQXX concept will enter the production model and the upcoming electric variant of the C-Class as well as the successor to the A-Class is a candidate for it.
In terms of design, the A-Class / EQA hatchback will likely get a lower-slang body, made possible by a slim floor-mounted battery pack, without leaving cabin space. The EV will likely be offered exclusively with a five-door hatchback bodystyle, as there are rumors that the four-door A-Class sedan and CLA will be combined into a single model.
Mercedes has promised to make its compact cars more luxurious and technologically advanced. In this context, the hatchback will be the successor to the new Mercedes-Benz operating system (MB.OS) that comes with a larger screen and more connectivity features. We expect an array of more premium materials and sophisticated ADAS inside the cabin that can give up to level 3 autonomy.
At the moment, premium automakers like Audi and BMW are not offering EV hatchbacks, limiting competitors to more mainstream offers such as VW ID.3, Cupra Born, and Stellantis’ upcoming Peugeot e-308 and Opel Astra-e pair. Another future competitor will be the Lancia Delta EV which has been confirmed for 2028.
The A-Class electric successor is expected to arrive by 2025, when Mercedes wants to offer an EV in each segment. The automaker has decided to drop the A-Class from the United States and Canada, but since its EV successor will hit the market, we should not rule out potential returns.
