The Mercedes E-Class sedan was given a facelift for the 2022 model year to compete with the updated BMW 5 Series. Last year, Audi revealed the new 2021 A3 Sportback, and Mercedes is wasting no time updating the A-Class hatchback to compete in that segment too. For the first time, our spies have spotted Mercedes testing new prototypes of the updated A-Class.

The prototypes are based on the European hatchback variant, but the A-Class Sedan in America should receive the same styling changes to keep the luxury sedan looking fresh and battle the new BMW 2 Series. The current-generation A-Class has been on sale since 2018, so the time seems right for a mid-cycle update.

Mercedes has covered the front and rear with camouflage, but the changes are easy to spot. At the front, the A-Class is fitted with a new grille, a new bumper, and redesigned headlights resembling the headlights on the new C-Class. New taillights have also been added to the rear and the rear bumper has been tweaked. We don't get a look inside the cabin, but we expect the MBUX infotainment system will be upgraded as part of the mid-cycle update.

As standard, the current A-Class is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, which can be upgraded to an optional 10.25-inch display. The facelifted model could get a slightly larger touchscreen and updated software. Both prototypes are based on the A-Class plug-in hybrid, which is not sold in the US. Unlike the current model, the exhaust pipes are hidden.

In Europe, the Mercedes A-Class hatchback is also offered with a 1.3-liter gasoline engine developed by Renault, but this unit will reportedly be replaced with a new four-cylinder engine developed by Geely. Likewise, the 1.5-liter diesel unit also offered in Europe will be replaced with a new 2.0-liter version. We aren't expecting the American A-Class to get any changes under the hood, however.

In the US, the A-Class sedan is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine developing 188 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. Hopefully, it won't be long until we get a first look at America's updated A-Class. There's no word yet when the refreshed A-Class will debut, but the hatchback will most likely arrive later this year or earlier next year, followed by the sedan. The more powerful AMG A35 should get the same styling changes.