Mercedes-AMG A 35 entry-level hatchback revealed

There used to be a gap between the Mercedes A 250 and A 45, but not anymore. Meet the new A35 hatchback, the most junior member of the AMG family.

The Mercedes-AMG A 35 comes equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine good for 306 hp (228 kW). It also features a seven-speed DCT and AWD, and accelerates 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.7 seconds.

Once it hits the market, the car will face competition from the Volkswagen Golf R and Audi S3, both sprinting 0-100 in 4.6s.

The bodywork of the upcoming Mercedes-AMG A 35 is reinforced with diagonal braces and aluminum panels. Its suspension design incorporates new springs, struts and shock absorbers. Adaptive suspension is going to be available, too.

Compared to the main A Class line, the car sports a different bumper design, a rear wing right above the rear door, and larger wheels.

The interior is pretty much the standard AMG fare, complete with the same seats, steering wheel and controls.

The car will celebrate its international premiere in October and go on sale in early 2019. Prices are pending.

Photo: motor1.com