Perhaps one of the most interesting models to go on sale this year with the Mercedes-Benz badge (besides the new S-Class), is the CLA 45 AMG and its hatchback sibling, the A45 AMG. Both cars share the same 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged engine which is capable of producing an impressive 360 HP (265 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque.
These two are the smallest AMG models ever made and are capable of performing the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in just 4.6 seconds, on their way to a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h) which is electronically limited.
This very powerful engine (for a four-cylinder mill) works in conjunction with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7 dual-clutch gearbox that sends those ponies to a 4MATIC all-wheel drive system which was specially developed for the CLA 45 AMG and A 45 AMG. This new type of 4MATIC system is front-biased while the transmission has been fitted with a new mode called Momentary M that gives the driver the possibility to switch to manual mode without having to remove his hands from the steering wheel. All that he has to do is to press up or down the shift paddle.
There’s also an S (Sport) mode and a C (Controlled Efficiency) mode. The latter will increase the car’s fuel efficiency and will activate the stop/start ECO function. According to Mercedes-Benz, the CLA 45 AMG is capable of returning 34 mpg US (41 mpg UK or 6.9 liters / 100 km). The car also benefits from a three-stage ESP system featuring Curve Dynamic Assist, as well as an AMG-developed independent sports suspension and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Even though the looks of the car mimic the hatchback version, the German marque says they took design cues from the larger and significantly more expensive CLS 63 AMG.
If you are interested in this car, you should know that the CLA 45 AMG will reach German market sometime this July where it will have a starting price of 56,078 euros or $71,981. The rest of the European continent will be able to get the car in September. Americans are the lucky ones as the car will be available on order this spring from $47,450 or 37,067 euros. Do notice the huge price difference between the model sold in Germany and the one in U.S.
As for the A45 AMG, this costs in Germany (with VAT included) from 49,682 euros for the standard model and 56,977 euros for the limited Edition 1 variant which comes with several enhancements. The latter will be available only for a year.
