If you've been waiting for Mercedes to release their widely popular A-Class lineup here in the United States, unfortunately, you're going to have to keep waiting.

If, however, you live in a country that actually sells the mini-Mercedes, we have some news you may be interested in.

Today, Mercedes has released details of what they're calling the A-Class "Polar Star," a special edition model that is a "harmonioius combination of sporty looks and elegant touches."

The A-Class Polar Star features, among other things, 16 inch seven spoke light alloy wheels, two new special metallic paint finishes (pictured), aluminum trim elements, special seat fabric, and custom designed floor mats featuring a "Polar Star" logo.

Getting excited yet?  If so, the Polar Star special edition is available on either the Saloon or Coupe models, and you can also opt for any of the A-Class' three diesel engines or four petrol engines.  And here's the best part - if you do choose the Polar Star package, you'll actually end up saving EUR 800 compared to a standard A-Class fitted with the same options. Nice.

For more info, you can find photos and the official press release below. Enjoy.













OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE


A-Class "Polar Star" special edition: A sporty and elegant arrival in time for spring

Stuttgart, Feb 06, 2006

Mercedes-Benz has augmented its successful A-Class line-up by introducing the new "Polar Star" special edition – a harmonious combination of sporty looks and elegant touches. Since its launch in autumn 1997, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class has won over a total of some 1.35 million customers. Equipment and appointments for the "Polar Star" special edition include distinctive light-alloy wheels, special paint finishes and a selection of new fabrics and trim elements.

The "Polar Star" special edition sees Mercedes-Benz satisfying the wishes of many of its A-Class customers by including attractive accessories from the optional extras list as standard. In addition, the Stuttgart-based brand has further enhanced the visual appeal of the trend-setting compact car. Customers can save up to € 800, compared to the price of a standard model fitted with optional extras, depending on the chosen specification. There are three lines to choose from: CLASSIC, ELEGANCE or AVANTGARDE.

The new special edition is available in Saloon or Coupé guise and comes with a choice of three diesel engines (60 kW/82 hp to 103 kW/140 hp) and four petrol engines (70 kW/95 hp to 142 kW/193 hp).

Thanks to the unique sandwich concept, the new special-edition model delivers the same outstanding benefits as the rest of the A-Class range, such as renowned Mercedes occupant safety, exemplary economy of space and exceptional variability. The interior space, for example, can be extended up to a length of 2.75 metres whilst the load capacity can be increased to 1995 litres.

Furthermore, the A-Class sets new standards in terms of active safety and roadholding by virtue of innovations such as the parabolic rear axle with precise wheel location and excellent anti-roll control when cornering, not to mention a unique damping system which adapts the shock absorber response to the current driving situation, thus combining a high degree of ride comfort with dynamic handling.


Highlights of the "Polar Star" special edition include:

-An attractive sight and light package with automatically activated headlamps, a bulb failure indicator, a rain sensor for the windscreen wipers and a blue filter band for the windscreen

-Large 16-inch light-alloy wheels with new, dynamic seven-spoke styling

-Two new special metallic paint finishes – reef silver and mistral blue – or, as an alternative, cosmos black
New door trim strips with a black matt/high-sheen effect and discreet genuine-metal edging

-Elegant brushed-aluminium trim elements on the centre console

-Leather multifunction steering wheel, gearshift lever and handbrake lever

-Cruise control

-Radio with CD player

-New-look, sporty seat fabric design

-New floor mats designed specifically for the limited-edition model, with silver-coloured edging and "Polar Star" logo. This logo is also displayed on the triangular panel in front of both exterior mirrors.


Copyright © 2006, DaimlerChrysler AG