Mercedes-AMG A 45 S
Fastest-ever hot hatch unveiled alongside CLA sibling
MERCEDES-AMG has thrown down the gauntlet to Audi Sport in the battle for the world’s fastest hatchback with this, the all-new A45S. With upto 415bhp under the bonnet, this second-generation A 45 is the world’s most powerful hot hatch.
The engine is key to this new flagship A-Class. While the A 45 sticks with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol unit, what you’ll find under the bonnet is a totally new motor, and the world’s most powerful four-cylinder production engine.
For the first time, Mercedes-AMG has developed two versions of the A 45. The base model develops 382bhp, while the more powerful S version gets that headline power output, as well as 500Nm of torque. Mercedes claims 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds for this model – a figure that trumps the AMG GT Coupé. Top speed is limited to 168mph.
The engine itself is mounted with the turbocharger and exhaust manifold at the rear, with the intake system at the front. Mercedes claims that this enables a more aerodynamic front end design and assists with cooling. New lightweight construction and low-friction parts in the engine result in a redline of 7,200rpm.
Both versions of the A 45 use Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
A new drift mode has also been developed for the A 45, and it’s optional on the base model, but standard on the S. The system uses electro-mechanical torque vectoring on the rear axle to distribute power between the left and right wheels. In tandem with variable torque between the front and rear axles, the drift mode splits power as necessary to enable controlled slides.
As standard, the A 45 comes with A MG specific suspension featuring frequency selective shock absorbers, MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link set-up at
“Mercedes claims 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds for the AMG A 45 S – a figure that trumps the V8 AMG GT Coupé”
the rear. Mercedes claims better grip and agility than in the old model, although the car’s ride quality has also been improved.
AMG Ride Control adaptive damping is available, too. This enables the driver to select from three different suspension control modes, ranging from a comfortoriented set-up to a track setting. Elsewhere, the AMG Dynamic Select system offers Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual and Race drive modes.
Prices have yet to be set, but the A 45 is likely to start in excess of £45,000. And if you’re a small saloon fan, the CLA 45 has also just been revealed, but only the high-powered model will come to the UK.