2018 Mercedes A-Class hatchback - pictures

Mercedes' boss Dieter Zetsche takes a selfie with the new A-Class

The interior is expected to be inspired by the elegant lines of the C-Class and E-Class

The new car will feature new styling

Including 'signature strips' in the headlights

The curved line that runs between the front and rear lights is lifted straight from the Aesthetic A sculpture

The new A-Class will be a five-door only hatchback

Performance models will following, including an A45 model - and possibly an A43

Horizontal rear lights give the impression of extra width across the car

The current 2.1-litre diesel will be dropped in favour of a new 2.0-litre version

The A-Class will feature more interior space than the current car

Mercedes' Aesthetic A sculpture points to the sleek lines of all new small Mercedes models