New Mercedes-AMG A35 ‘a proper AMG’

Having introduced less potent six-cylinder “43-Series” versions pitched below mighty V8 models such as the C63 and E63 sedans, AMG is ready to release a more affordable hot hatch to sit under the barnstorming, 280kW A45.

Packing 225kW of power along with all-wheel-drive, big brakes and track-tuned suspension, the new Mercedes-AMG A35 shapes up as a rival to the likes of VW’s Golf R and Audi’s RS3 - machine which cost around $20,000 less than its A45 big brother.

“It is a proper AMG car,” Moers says of the A35.

“Dynamic-wise it has better lateral acceleration than the A45 of today. Cornering is really good for that car.

“You don’t dilute the brand. It’s great to have a wide portfolio because then you can create the customer journey.

“It’s more important that we’re going to chase the one brand approach.”

Mercedes-AMG has grown from offering a couple of high-powered sedans and coupes two decades ago to a range which could span from $50,000 or so to $5 million, thanks to new bookend models such as the affordable A35 and eye-watering, F1-powered Mercedes-AMG One.

While the brand isn’t ready to talk prices for the A35, Moers says it is the “perfect value-for-money entry model”, now which will be “really competitive” with rival metal.

“I’m really confident in this car,” he says.

“AMG should be the most successful sport and performance car [brand]. That’s our task, that’s what we’re going to have.”

The A35 hatch will be joined by a new A45 AMG in the second half of 2019. Mercedes’ new A-Class sedan is in line for the A35 treatment next year, though it might miss out on full-house, 300kW-plus A45 power which could be reserved for the next-gen Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 four-door coupe.