Brabus->ke368 is likely one of the most famous and successful Mercedes-Benz->ke187 tuners on the planet, and there is really no questioning that. They likely play No. 2 fiddle only to AMG->ke8, in building kits that make relatively timid Mercedes into extreme machines.

One of the latest Mercedes-Benz cars to roll out with a new look and feel is the 2013 A-Class, which we have yet to see in the U.S. This hot hatchback comes in eight trim levels with small variances between each one. The engines in this lineup range from the timid and fuel-sipping 1.8-liter CDI engine to the wilder 2.0-liter 4-cylinder unit.

With the newly redesigned A-Class just rolling off of the showroom floor, it was only a matter of time before Brabus got its expert hands on it. And at the 2012 Essen Motor Show->ke2128, which kicks off on December 1st, Brabus plans to unveil its modifications for the A-Class. However, in preparation for this launch, Brabus has issued a soft release of just some of the upgrades that it will offer for this new compact Benz.

Click past the jump to read all about the Mercedes-Benz A-Class by Brabus.

2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class by Brabus

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class by Brabus
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

On the outside of the A-Class, Brabus took great care to highlight the good parts of the A-Class, add a little extra flair and even add a little bit of function. Up front Brabus offers up a modified front spoiler to mount on the underside of the front fascia. This spoiler adds a sporting look to the A-Class’s front end, and it also has been engineered to reduce front-axle lift at high speeds. There are two different spoilers available, one for those with AMG Code 950 and ones without.

Around the backside, Brabus added in a few extra goodies. First is a revised rear bumper that features a diffusor on the underside to help add a little downforce to the rear axle. Not only does this diffusor help the A-Class’ handling, but it also looks rather fine sitting back there. The custom sport exhaust tips – two sets of two tips – fit nicely in the cutouts in the diffusor, giving the back end an awesome look. Brabus also fitted the A-Class’ backside with a downforce-creating spoiler.

On the corners, Brabus fitted it with custom wheels, ranging from 17-by-8.5-inch H2 monoblock 6-spoke, silver-painted rims to 19-by-8.5-inch H2 monoblock double-spoke, diamond polished, “Liquid Titanium” colored rims. Between these two rim styles are nearly limitless options, so you have tons to choose from.

Overall, Brabus took great care with the A-Class’ exterior. The A-Class already features very impressive body lines and shapes, so we cannot fault Brabus for taking care not to interfere with what Mercedes has built.

Interior

As you enter the A-Class a lighted “Brabus” door sill plate greets you, letting you know that this is no normal A-Class. Brabus offers up a leather and Alcantara interior trim, including both front seats, headrests, rear bench, and four door inserts. Brabus gives you your choice of edge stitching color and leather color to help add to the custom look and feel of the A-Class.

Also covered in leather and Alcantara are the A-, B-, C- and D-columns, sun visors, armrests, parcel shelf, gear shift lever, airbag cover, dashboard, and headliner. Adding a little style to the A-Class’ interior are Brabus aluminum pedals and Brabus door lock pins. You also get a trunk mat and a set of floor mats with the “Brabus” logo.

The Mercedes-Bens A-Class already features a stunning interior and the additions that Brabus adds just make it all the better. The leather and Alcantara trimming is phenomenal and the aluminum accents set it off perfectly. This is certainly one eco-friendly hatchback that doesn’t look or feel the part of an econo-box.

Engine and Transmission

The A-Class has a wide array of engines, and they are as follows:

Engine

Horsepower

Torque

1.6-liter BlueEfficiency

122 horsepower

200 Nm (147 pound-feet)

1.5-liter CDI BlueEfficiency

109 horsepower

260 Nm (192 pound-feet)

1.8-liter CDI BlueEfficiency

109 horsepower

250 Nm (184 pound-feet)

1.6-liter BlueEfficiency

156 horsepower

250 Nm (184 pound-feet)

1.6-liter BlueEfficiency

136 horsepower

300 Nm (221 pound-feet)

1.8-liter BlueEfficiency

211 horsepower

350 Nm (258 pound-feet)

2.0-liter BlueEfficiency

170 horsepower

350 Nm (258 pound-feet)


Brabus is pretty secretive with its engine upgrades, which we cannot blame them. Brabus is quoted saying “Brabus offers the world’s largest engine tuning program for Mercedes-Benz automobiles.

The top priority in all Brabus engine developments is the symbiosis of high performance, excellent running smoothness, exemplary eco-friendliness and durability beyond reproach. Brabus recommends high-performance lubricants from MOTUL. Performance tuning for the gasoline and diesel engines of the new Mercedes A-Class is in the final stages of development.”

This means that there are tons of upgrades coming, as usual, and we expect Brabus to cover the full range of aforementioned engines. Expect to see 20- to 25-percent increases. Brabus did let us know that it will include a sports exhaust system with chrome-plated tailpipes. This not only increases the A-Class’ performance, but it also adds in a throaty sound. All of the trim levels except the A 250 only have a muffler and slanted tailpipes available, and the A 250 gets a cat-back exhaust system with sound-control valves.

We’ll update the power upgrades as soon as Brabus releases them.

Suspension

The A-Class is surprising agile for a hatchback. It features a low center of gravity, Mercedes’ electromechanical Direct-Steer system and a multi-link rear suspension. In addition to its already-impressive suspension system, Brabus added in sports springs. We’re sure there is more information to pass on, but Brabus is being a little stingy with it until the Essen Motor Show opens up.

Pricing and Availability

There is no pricing available yet, but we’re sure there will be a tag attached to it at the Essen Motor Show. We also assume the entire kit will debut shortly after the Essen Motor Show.

Conclusion

Overall, we like what Brabus did here. The A-Class is already a very good-looking car, and Brabus added just enough to make it look and handle better. We also expect the engine and suspension modification to make the A-Class an impressive performer. We’re really excited to see its debut on December 1st and we’ll be sue to update you the second we learn more.