By Funizwe Moleme

We excitedly welcomed the facelifted A35 AMG sedan, a true spectacle that captivates from every angle, accompanied by a suite of modern technologies to elevate the driving experience, with its application of active and passive safety features.

Potent engine

Without further ado, lets start with what matters for this car. The A35 AMG retains its formidable power house, a 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder engine that churns out an impressive 225 kW and 400 Nm of torque. The power is seamlessly transmitted to all wheels via a 7-speed automatic transmission, ensuring a thrilling performance on the road.

Minor exterior updates

While updates are primarily cosmetic, with redesigned headlights, taillights, and minor adjustments to the front and rear bumpers, the A35 AMG remains a head-turner that commands attention. Priced from R1,128,750, this facelifted model promises a dynamic and visually striking driving experience and we are glad to report that it also delivers.

Sporty, high-tech cabin

Our first-hand experience with the Mercedes-AMG A35 sedan left us enamoured with various aspects. The seamless connectivity, both through mobile devices and driver-assisted functions, stood out as a highlight. The MBUX system continues to impress, offering a user-friendly interface that enhances the overall driving experience and ease of access to all things technology, safety and mobile integration.

Driving impressions

The A35 AMG  sedan also excels in power, handling, nimbleness, and responsiveness, adding a spirited flair to enthusiastic driving. However, the performance-oriented nature of this model does come with its daily drawbacks. One notable drawback is the increased road noise, a trade-off for the enhanced performance. While other derivatives with excellent isolation levels mitigated this issue, the performance tires on the A35 AMG contribute to the audible road noise, especially rougher road surfaces.

Another aspect worth noting is the gearbox’s enthusiastic behaviour, particularly at low speeds, resulting in occasional jerkiness. Additionally, the stop/start feature is occasionally disrupted, and this prematurely switches off the ignition before a complete stop.

Verdict

In conclusion, the facelifted Mercedes-AMG A35 sedan impresses with its dynamic design, powerful performance, and advanced technology. While daily practicality may be affected by increased road noise and gearbox behaviour, the overall driving experience remains exhilarating. The A35 AMG sedan successfully combines style and substance, offering a thrilling ride for those who crave a performance-oriented driving experience.