Spy shots of the next-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class are already circulating online. The new hatch from the three-pointed star brand is set to debut next year and it will be carrying a 2019 model year.

Here are our top 5 expectations from the 2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class based on sources:

1. Competition

The next Mercedes A-Class is poised to rival the Volkswagen Golf when it comes out in 2018.

2. New Design Language

The 2019 A-Class appears to have retained its predecessor’s proportions. However, the car will be sporting a the new design language of the company called “Aesthetics A“. The new styling for small Mercedes cars and the GLA will bring about a smoother body, new grille layout and possibly more room at the back.

3. Drivetrain

The upcoming generation of the A-Class will retain the front-wheel drive system of its earlier models. The auto will make use of Mercedes’ revised MFA platform called the “MFA2”.

4. Engine

The next-gen A-Class will likely get the new four-cylinder engine of Mercedes. The output of the standard model of the unit is estimated at 160 bhp to 190 bhp. There are indications that the car might also carry the three-cylinder diesel engine that its maker is developing.

5. New Variant

At present, the A-Class family is topped by the Mercedes-AMG A45. Reports say that a Mercedes-AMG A43 is in the works. The new 43 model lineup is rumored to arrive in the C-Class, GLC and E-Class.