Paris: 2019 Mercedes-AMG A35

It's the first AMG-badged variant of the new A-Class.

Mercedes-AMG has traveled to the biennial Paris auto show to introduce a warmer version of the new, fourth-generation A-Class named A35. We won't see it in American showrooms as-is but it's not entirely irrelevant to our market.

Power for the A35 comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine turbocharged to make 306 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Mounted transversally, the four-cylinder spins all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel drive system.

The A35 completes the zero-to-62-mph sprint in 4.7 seconds and goes on to a top speed that's electronically limited to 155 mph. Bigger brakes keep the power in check. Buyers can pay extra for an adaptive damping system which offers three different control modes.

Visually, the A35 stands out from the standard A-Class with an AMG-specific body kit a grille with twin slats, a front splitter, a roof-mounted spoiler, and a diffuser integrated into the rear bumper. It also rides on 18-inch alloy wheels. The sporty treatment continues inside with sport seats for the front passengers.

The list of options also includes AMG's Track Pace application. Built into the MBUX infotainment system, it monitors 80 vehicle-related parameters like the speed, the throttle position, and the steering angle to help enthusiasts the data and use it to get faster on the track.

The 2019 Mercedes-AMG A35 will go on sale across Europe in January 2019. The hatchback model you see in our gallery won't cross the pond but Mercedes will could choose to offer it as a sedan. And, it's safe to assume the drivetrain will power the brand's compacts including the replacements for the CLA and GLA models.

What's next?

AMG won't stop at the A35. It's also working on a hotter, range-topping variant named A45 we expect to see at the 2019 Geneva auto show. Leaks suggest it could boast 400 horsepower from an evolution of the A35's turbo four.