These most recent photographs of a low-slung five-door Benz hatch prototype give a clearer view of the more conventional approach being taken by the company in replacing its once-radical A-Class.

Slipping right out of the originally established mould of a space-efficient, ultra-vertical small Benz, the next A-Class will comfortably rub shoulders with the likes of BMW’s 1 Series and Audi’s A3 series.

With rather less camouflaging than the Carparazzi photos published in July last year these latest action pics give a good indication of the front and rear bumper profiles, as well as the clamshell-style bonnet shut lines. The signature coupe-style side window line remains as an identifiable gesture signifying current Benz styling directions as initiated in the CLS four-door coupe.

Where the Benz will have an advantage over BMW’s 1 Series is its space efficient front-drive configuration offering maximum space for passengers and luggage. The company will need to make 'A' while the sun shines though, because it is accepted BMW will move to front wheel drive for an as yet unnamed competitor.

— with Carparazzi

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