Mercedes-Benz is working on a whole new generation of its entry-level A Class, which is set to be revealed in full at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March.

A new video released by the automaker shows off many of the upcoming car’s details including its overall profile, the shape of its headlights, and some elements from its bumpers.

The video release coincides with the launch of a new competition being run in Europe.

Camouflaged prototypes for the new A Class sporting scannable QR (Quick Response) codes will appear randomly in major German cities. After downloading a new app, smartphone users who see the prototypes and scan the code will go into the draw to win some prizes including a visit to the car’s world debut in Geneva.

The new Mercedes-Benz A Class will go on sale in Europe before the end of the year though won’t arrive in U.S. showrooms until the second half of next year, most likely as a 2014 model. The U.S. will, however, receive a four-door coupe based on the same running gear as the A Class possibly as early as the end of this year.

Scheduled to debut during April’s 2012 New York Auto Show, the new four-door coupe is expected to resemble a downsized CLS and will spawn a high-performance AMG model. You can view spy shots of the car by clicking here.

As for the A Class, it will feature front-wheel drive as standard though sporty variants, including an AMG model, will come with all-wheel drive. Expect U.S. versions to feature a turbocharged and direct-injected 1.8-liter engine matched to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission as the base option. European models should come with the same drivetrain spec as the new B Class.

Look out for the debut of the third-generation A Class at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, press days for which commence March 6. In the meantime click here to follow our ongoing coverage of the event.