2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class facelift revealed, due in Australia next year

The facelifted 2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class has been unveiled, ahead of an Australian launch towards the middle of next year.

Arriving nearly five years into the current A-Class range’s run, the updated model introduces visual tweaks, a revised interior, upgraded technology and improved performance to keep Mercedes-Benz’s smallest model fresh against BMW and Audi rivals.

The first cars are due in Australian showrooms in the second quarter of 2023 (April to June), with a model range expected to be similar to today, with hatchback and sedan body styles across regular petrol, plug-in hybrid and high-performance AMG petrol variants.

Prices have yet to be announced, however if a higher level of standard equipment is offered, expect price increases above the current range, which costs between $49,890 plus on-road costs for an A180 hatch, to $79,169 plus on-roads for an AMG A35 sedan, or $99,895 for an AMG A45 S hatch.

The updated A-Class can be distinguished on the road through new LED headlight and tail-light signatures, a sharper front grille, new alloy wheel designs up to 19 inches in diameter, and a tweaked rear bumper.

Meanwhile, AMG models add new wheel designs, and for the A35, a new front fascia with more aggressive air intakes, the A45 S' slatted 'Panamericana' grille design, and 'power bulges' on the bonnet from the A45 S.

Inside, dual 10.25-inch screens carry across from the existing model – but they run a newer version of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX software, with new graphics and layouts, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity (rather than wired only, as previously offered).

The centre screen can now be operated through touch only – as the redesigned centre console ditches the current car’s touchpad controller – while there’s also a new steering wheel borrowed from newer Mercedes models, trimmed in nappa leather.

Further touches for AMG models include a unique AMG Performance steering wheel with two rotary dials, which can be used to control drive modes or stability control presets.

Other interior changes across the range include an extra USB-C port, an upgraded voice assistant feature, and in European models from early next year, a fingerprint sensor.

Buyers in Europe can choose Artico synthetic leather upholstery – on its own, or with microfibre inserts – in a new Sage Grey colour, as well as a new carbon fibre-look dashboard trim element in some models. The fabric in the centre of the seats in entry-level European models is made from 100 per cent recycled material.

Standard equipment levels have increased across the range in Europe, joined by a simplified options list with fewer individual extras in favour of more option packages.

The advanced safety suite has been upgraded with a refined lane-keeping assist system, and a 3D view for the 360-degree camera.

Under the bonnet, all Benz-badged petrol models in Europe gain 48-volt mild-hybrid systems, which can supply 10kW under heavy load, restart the engine at the traffic lights faster than a traditional start-stop system, and allow the engine to switch off and let the car to glide during “steady cruising”.

A250e plug-in hybrid models also gain a more potent electric motor (80kW vs 75kW before), more usable energy in the battery, and a higher AC charging rate, up from 7.4kW to 11kW. Overall power and torque outputs remain at 160kW/450Nm, however.

It’s unclear if these upgrades will carry over to Australia, where the model range is expected to continue to comprise a 100kW/230Nm 1.3-litre turbo four-cylinder in the A180, 165kW/350Nm 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder in the A250, and the 1.3-litre plug-in hybrid A250e – all fuelled by petrol.

Meanwhile, the AMG A35 adds the same 48-volt mild-hybrid system to its 225kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine – though the 310kW/500Nm 2.0-litre turbo A45 S goes without.

The A35 swaps its current seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for the eight-speed gearbox in the A45 S – and adds a new front radiator for better "temperature management at the limit."

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class range is due in Australia in the second quarter of 2023 (April to June). More details will be announced closer to launch.

Available at launch in Europe is an AMG Street Style Edition for the A45 S, for a limited time only – but it's unclear if it is planned for Australia.

It adds Mountain Grey Magno matte paint, orange exterior accents, the typically-optional Aerodynamics Package, black 19-inch wheels, red brake calipers, AMG Performance bucket seats in black microfibre (with orange stitching), 'A45 S' headrest embroidery, aluminium interior accents, and a leather/microfibre steering wheel with similar orange stitching.