Here’s our first look at the next generation Mercedes A Class which will be revealed in concept form at the upcoming Shanghai Motorshow. And the first impression is Oh My God!

Compared to the old Mercedes A Class, this three-door sporty hatchback looks fantastic. It hints at a whole new design philosophy for Mercedes small cars which are ought o be cool and trendy and sporty, exactly what the previous A and B Class weren’t! They looked like minivans to be honest.

Mercedes A Class Concept or Concept A as they call it, is inspired by design of aircrafts, or maybe spaceships, and it inherits some design cues from other Mercs as well, like the front grille which comes straight form the SLS. It also features LED lights and mesh grilles for extra sportiness. Good news is that Mercedes officials have said the production version will remain very loyal to the design of this concept.

Powering the COncept A is a M270 direct-injection four-cylinder gasoline engine developing 20 hp mated to a dual-clutch gearbox which spins front wheels. So there’s a slight worry that the car might not be just as good to drive as it looks. But we know that an AMG version is in the works with loads more power and possibly rear-wheel-drive. That’s something to look forward to.

The interior is also inspired by aircrafts covered in a transparent and stretchable fabric, garnished with red ambient lighting. It is also ban-on up to date with a 3D capable display and smartphone integration.

Look out for this car ay Auto Shanghai 2011 and also New York Auto Show.