2012 Mercedes A-Class spied showing new details

A week after we spied the 2012 Mercedes A-Class for the first time, the model is back in the spotlight with less camouflage.

The main body panels are heavily covered, but the car will feature a dramatic design that was previewed by the A-Class concept. Specific details are hard to pin down, but the prototype appears to have less extraneous styling with a traditional Mercedes grille and toned-down tail lights.

Engine options will likely be shared with the 2012 B-Class, so expect five petrols with 109 PS (80 kW / 108 hp) to 204 PS (150 kW / 201 hp) as well as four diesels with 122 PS (90 kW / 120 hp) to 204 PS (150 kW / 201 hp).

If that hasn't sparked your interest, Mercedes has already confirmed an AMG variant is in the works. Speculation suggests the model could be called the A25 and feature a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 325 PS (239 kW / 321 hp) to 355 PS (261 kW / 350 hp). Additionally, there's the possibility of a dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive.

The new five-door will likely be unveiled sometime next year, so expect to learn more in the coming months.