2017 Shanghai Auto Show: Mercedes-Benz Concept A Sedan Showcased

While it's distinctly different from the CLA in terms of design, the reduced lines and surfaces clearly announce a new era in terms of design. Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler AG said, "Our Concept A Sedan shows that the time of creases is over. It is the next milestone of 'Sensual Purity' and has the potential to introduce a new design era."

The Concept A sedan will be launched in 2018

The Mercedes-Benz CLA was ballistic in terms of design and you fell in love with the car, the moment you saw it. The Concept A sedan takes a cautious approach to the compact luxury segment. Mind you, it is of course still attractive. The short overhangs at the front and rear combined with the large wheel arches which accommodate 20-inch wheels, are visually appealing. The angular lamps on the front on rear give it an edgy look while the high belt line and arching roof are things that we've seen on Mercedes' cars before.

Mercedes' Concept A sedan will probably carry the same engine options as in the CLA

There is no mention of what powers the Concept A sedan but it's likely that the powertrain that the CLA currently boasts of will make its way under the bonnet of this one. In India we currently get the 2-litre, 4 cylinder turbocharged petrol engine good enough for 181 bhp and the 2143cc, 4 cylinder turbocharged diesel engine which churns out 134 bhp. A new Mercedes A-Class sedan is expected to arrive later in 2018 globally and we expect it to hit the Indian market later in the same year. We won't be surprised if the company decides to bring it to the 2018 Auto Expo to build some interest in the car before it's launched.