Mercedes-Benz unveils A-Class BlueEfficiency

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled two BlueEfficieny variants of its very popular A-Class hatchback. The BlueEfficiency variants, spread out across the German automakers range, are basically cars fitted with various fuel saving devices to return maximum efficiency.

The A180 BlueEfficiency is the petrol variant and will be powered by a 1.6-litre engine which produces 122bhp and 200Nm of torque.  The diesel variant will be called the A180 CDI and will be powered by the 1.5-litre Renault-Nissan K9K diesel engine which produces 110bhp and 260Nm of torque. 

According to reports the petrol variant has a fuel-efficiency of 22.95kmpl while the diesel returns 33.16kmpl. Both these numbers seem impressive but rather optimistic and we feel that in real world conditions both will drop by at least 3-4kmpl. The car has also undergone significant aerodynamic changes in the form of partially covered radiator grille, re-designed spring link coverings, lowered suspension, reprogrammed ECU and taller gear ratios.

The A-Class BlueEfficiency is expected to go on sale from next month with deliveries expected to begin from March onwards. Mercedes-Benz India has confirmed that the A-Class will be launched this year and it is likely that the A180 CDI will be offered in the line-up.