The Mercedes-Benz A Class is a small car produced by Mercedes-Benz. The first generation was introduced in 1997, and the second generation model appeared in 2004. It is made as a three or five door hatchback. It is Mercedes start level model in most of its worldwide markets, Production of the Mercedes A Class began in 1997. Its front engine, front wheel drive layout was unusual for Mercedes models. One innovation of the A class was a frontal-impact absorption system . In the event of a violent frontal impact, the engine and transmission would slide underneath the floor below the pedals rather than entering the passenger compartment. The A class became infamous in 1997 after turning over during performance tests by the Swedish automobile publication Teknikens Värld. According to the report, the A class turned over when turning sharply. Mercedes denied the problem, but then took the surprising step of recalling all units sold to date and suspending distribution until the problem was solved with electronic stability control and modifications to the A class's suspension.