Mercedes-AMG A 35 Saloon 27 | 03 | 2019

    MERCEDES-AMG HAS launched the second model under AMG’s newly-established 35 range; the new A 35 4Matic saloon is set to go head-to-head with the likes of the Audi S3 Saloon. (Related: New 302bhp Mercedes-AMG A 35 Hatch)

    According to Mercedes-AMG, the new saloon — which joins the hatchback in the sector — is targeted at younger buyers, and combines the brand’s sportiness with more space for passengers and their luggage.

    Mercedes-AMG says the saloon is at the top of its segment with regard to rear headroom (944 mm). The boot holds 420 litres, with the boot opening to a width of 950mm and a diagonal of 462mm between lock and lower edge of the rear window.

    As you would expect, the saloon’s styling is similar to that of the hatchback. But at the rear, the newcomer now gains two large tailpipes, a rear diffuser and a boot lip spoiler. It also sits on 18in twin-spoke alloys.

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    Power comes from the same 302bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine found in the hatchback, and is fed to Merc’s 4Matic four-wheel drive system through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox . Both cars cover the 0-62mph sprint in 4.7 seconds and max out at 155mph. (Related: Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster unveiled)

    Drivers can set the car to suit themselves via Mercedes’ five-mode AMG Dynamic Select drive programme; these range from Slippery, Comfort, Sport and Sport+ to Individual modes.

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    The new Slippery” drive programme is optimised for low-grip, icy road conditions, with reduced power and a flat torque curve. Smooth gear changes, earlier upshifts and the ECO start/stop system support the stability-focused driving impression. The Comfort programme stands for comfortable and fuel-efficient driving, for example due to very early upshifts. Suspension and steering are set up with an emphasis on comfort, the ECO start/stop system is active.

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    Sport and Sport+ place the focus on agility and driving pleasure with sporty engine and transmission tuning. The sound of the turbocharged engine becomes more distinctive. The ECO start/stop system is inactive. Sport+ includes double-declutching during downshifts and partial cylinder cut-off via a brief and precisely defined retardation of ignition and injection at full load.

    The Individual drive programme enables the individual parameters to be selected and saved according to personal preferences. In addition, the gliding function is available in the Reduced and Moderate drive settings.

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    In addition, the optional AMG Ride Control suspension features an adaptive adjustable damping system, which allows the driver to switch between three different suspension configurations. The spectrum ranges from comfort-focused to sporty.

    The saloon also benefits from the high-performance braking system found on the A 35 hatch. That means 350mm brake discs at the front and 33mm at the rear, all internally ventilated and perforated to dissipate the heat under hard use.

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    Inside, the cabin closely resembles that of the regular A-Class hatch, but with the addition of a number of unique AMG features, including AMG sports seats and the flat-bottom steering wheel. And as you would expect, Mercedes’ familiar 12.3-inch dual digital displays on the dash — which provide access to the firm’s new MBUX infotainment system with voice control — are also included.

    Related: Mercedes unveils electric EQC SUV

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    Jim McGill

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