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2020 Mercedes-AMG A45 & CLA45 revealed, here early next year

Mercedes-AMG has officially revealed the new A45 and CLA45, ahead of an Australian launch during the first quarter of 2020.


Let’s start with the powertrain. We already knew the A45 and CLA45 would be getting two versions of the company’s ‘M139’ 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo, available in 285kW/480Nm and 310kW/500Nm tunes.

We also knew drive would be channelled to the tarmac through a new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and variable 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system with Drift Mode, but we didn’t know just how quick the two baby supercars would be.

Now, we know. Mercedes-AMG is claiming the flagship A45 S will sprint from 0-100 in a ballistic 3.9 seconds, with the CLA45 S a fraction slower at 4.0 seconds.

The ‘standard’ versions aren’t slouches either, with the A45 claiming a 4.0-second 0-100 sprint time, and the CLA45 completing the same feat in 4.1 seconds.

‘Base’ versions are electronically limited to 250km/h, while ‘S’ versions can hit 270km/h from the factory. There’s an optional AMG Driver’s Package that raises the top speed of base versions to 270km/h.

Fuel consumption is rated at 8.3-8.4L/100km for the A45, and 8.1-8.3L/100km for the CLA45 depending on variant and configuration – not that economy would really matter to the target buyer, right?

Beyond the huge outputs and wild performance claims, Mercedes-AMG is touting the new engine’s power delivery, which has been tuned to behave mimc that of a naturally-aspirated motor.

Peak torque in S versions (500Nm) comes in between 5000 and 5250rpm (4750-5000rpm in base models), while the 2.0-litre engine redlines at 7200rpm.

In terms of their design, both the AMG A45 and CLA45 receive the company’s Panamericana grille. The A45 also gets a widened front axle and pumped guards, while the base CLA already had a wider track than the A-Class so the differences are less pronounced.

Both vehicles get a new front apron with ‘jet wing’ detailing, an integrated front splitter, wider AMG side skirts, four 90mm tailpipes for S models (82mm standard), a rear diffuser, a rear spoiler, optional aero flics, and alloy wheels up to 19 inches in diameter.

 

Drive

Behind the wheels are performance brakes (360mm for S models) with red six-piston calipers (S models), while the tyres are 245/35 R19 (A45 S) or 255/35 R19 (CLA45).

The A45 and CLA45 will be available with both the AMG Night Package and Silver Chrome Package, which adds exterior accents in either high-gloss black or silver chrome.

Under the skin, AMG has “extensively reinforced” the bodyshell of both model, using measures like an aluminium shearing plate bolted underneath the engine, a strut tower brace between the front suspension struts and pistol-shaped ‘shotguns’ acting as reinforcing plates that connect the A-pillars and side members.

There’s also diagonal struts at the front and rear of the underbody to further increase rigidity, with the overall package claimed to give more precise handling response while reducing rolling and pitching in the bends.

AMG has employed a MacPherson front suspension setup and a four-link system at the rear, with the option of AMG Ride Control adaptive dampers offering three distinct modes.

Other features include speed-sensitive electromechanical sports steering, a specific adaptive AMG exhaust system that has an electronically controlled flap, and additional drive modes (Sport+, Race and Individual) which are standard on S versions and optional on the regular variants.

 

Drive

Inside, the AMG 45 models get unique trim and equipment options to further distinguish them from their regular counterparts, including contoured sports seats, red seat belts, red air vent surrounds, Dinamica microfibre upholstery inserts for the seats and dashboard, an AMG steering wheel with flat bottom and galvanised paddle shifters, stainless steel sports pedals, AMG floor mats, stainless steel front door sills, and a black headliner.

The S models get yellow interior highlights to “emphasise the motor racing character”, nappa leather/microfibre trim on the steering wheel with yellow top-stitching and a yellow 12 o’clock marker, yellow buttons, AMG logo and ambient lighting.

Bolstering the AMG 45 equipment list are model-specific displays for the MBUX infotainment system and digital instrument cluster, performance menus like a race timer and G-force meter, along with access to AMG telemetry data.

Various options will also be available so buyers can further personalise and tailor their vehicle to their individual tastes, including extended leather packages, alternate AMG steering wheel trims, stainless steel trim inlays, and alternate sports seat packages.

Australia

Speaking with Drive, Mercedes-Benz’s local media relations and product communications manager, Ryan Lewis, confirmed we can expect the new A45 and CLA45 to hit Australian showrooms during the first quarter of 2020.

“We are excited to confirm that the A 45 and CLA 45 are coming to Australia, and in their most powerful forms. Local showrooms will offer flagship S variants exclusively,” he said.

“At this stage we expect vehicles to begin arriving in the first quarter of next year. Pricing and local specifications will be available closer to that time.”

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