Mercedes-AMG A 35 2019 – images

The Mercedes-AMG A 35 is a premium hot-hatch designed to take on the Volkswagen Golf R

The A 35 gets a new turbocharged two-litre petrol engine that produces 302bhp

The interior of the A 35 is just as classy as in the standard A-Class, albeit with extra sporty touches

The A 35 isn’t a direct replacement for the outgoing A 45 – a new version of that car is expected to arrive in due course

One downside to the A 35 sporty pretensions is its harsh ride around town; this improves as speed increases

Unlike the car in these pictures, A 35 models fitted with the AMG Style Pack in the UK will also boast a rear spoiler

Larger multi-spoke alloy wheels come as part of the AMG Style Pack

The A 35’s new sports steering wheel features new touch-sensitive buttons

There’s room for two adults in the rear, but the VW Golf R is more comfortable for rear passengers

Unlike some four-wheel drive rivals, the system fitted to the A 35 doesn’t intrude on interior space