Three new Mercedes-Benz compact cars dawn upon us today, headlined by the Malaysian launch of this duo: the 2023 Mercedes-Benz A200, and the 2023 Mercedes-Benz A250 AMG Line, both in sedan bodystyle.

Prices start from RM 238,888 for the A200, to an estimated RM 264,000 (pending government approval, CKD cars entitled to excise tax rebates depending on local content value) for the A250. Both are locally-assembled (CKD Pekan) as before.

Changes across the board encapsulate minor stylistic updates to go with the bigger news - a powertrain update for the A250. 

The third model joining the refreshed A-Class lineup here is the effervescent Mercedes-AMG A45 S 4Matic+, the hottest of the range.

Specs

Just like the pre-facelift models, the updated A-Class sedan range is still offered in two variants, with the same outputs as before:

• A200: (M282) 1.3-litre turbo - 163 PS, 250 Nm
• A250: (M260, mild-hybrid) 2.0-litre turbo - 224 PS, 350 Nm

Drive is routed through to the front wheels (FWD) for the A200, while the A250 gets the 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD) system, unlike the previous car that was front-wheel drive only. The A200 gets a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and the A250 gets an 8-speed DCT.

More importantly, the A250 now has a 14 PS integrated starter generator (ISG) starting up the engine more smoothly, and allows for improved idle stop-start. Fuel consumption should see an improvement, as one of the features of this 48V mild-hybrid (MHEV) powertrain is the ability to 'glide' with the engine switched off during steady cruising.

Interior

Upon entering the cabin,  the layout of the vehicle is nearly identical to the pre-facelift model. However, there are a few notable physical changes. The central touchpad has been relocated higher on the console, making room for a shallow storage compartment, buttons for Dynamic Access drive modes, and a new fingerprint sensor introduced in the facelift.

The car retains its dual-screen setup, featuring two 10.25-inch screens. These screens are now powered by the latest version of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) software, offering various connected services, compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and customisable display options.

In terms of features, the Driver Assistance Package has been enhanced for the A250 model. It now includes Active Steering Control and expanded support for parking, including longitudinal parking assistance and a 360-degree camera with 3D imaging. As before it keeps autonomous emergency braking (AEB), but still doesn't come with adaptive cruise control (ACC).

Exterior

Regarding the exterior, distinguishing between the pre-facelift and facelifted versions may initially pose a challenge, but it is not impossible.

The modest styling updates consist of slightly redesigned headlamps with new LED daytime running lights, featuring a single bar at the top of each headlamp (similar to the design seen in the new EQs, C-Class, and E-Class) instead of the previous L-shape design.

The front bumper now has different lower intake openings, and the hexagonal grille has been slightly resized. Additionally, the AMG Line kit offers bumpers with small faux side intakes at the corners as an added feature.

Wheels remain the AMG-style 18-inches for the A250; while the A200 now gets 17-inch units (compared to the pre-facelift's 18-inch rollers) for added comfort.

Minor changes can be observed at the rear, such as revised light signatures, although the bumpers appear mostly unchanged.

Aftersales and deliveries

The vehicle continues to be supported by a 4-year/unlimited mileage warranty for aftersales service.