Mercedes Small Cars Get Upscale Interiors

Daimler AG’s Mercedes-Benz unit is redesigning the interiors of its compact vehicle lineup with a variety of high-end appointments.

The first vehicle to get the treatment will be the next-generation A-Class hatchback, which is due to bow in Europe early next year. This will be followed by the all-new A-Class sedan along with the CLA sedan and GLA crossover.

The new compact vehicle interiors will borrow elements from higher end models, such as the E- and S-Class. Highlights include a multifunctional steering wheel, seat heater/cooler and massage functions, premium materials, turbine-style air vents and a touchpad-based controller in the center stack.

The overhauled dashboard features a pair of upright digital displays with ambient lighting to create a greater sense of space, according to the carmaker. Buyers can choose between 7-inch and 10.25-inch displays.

The new A-Class also will ride on a larger wheelbase and gets a larger cargo area and hatch opening. The carmaker says visibility has been improved through the use of slimmer roof pillars and claddings.