Mercedes showed off the concept version of the upcoming CLA four-door coupe again at CES this month, and we’ve seen prototypes of the real thing testing on multiple occasions. But where there’s an opportunity in the market for Mercedes, there’s an opportunity for AMG, so it was only a matter of time before spies spotted a hotter CLA out on test. And here it is, the AMG CLA having a riot all by itself in the Swedish snow. A serious brake package hidden behind big wheels, heavy rear camouflage which could be hiding an active spoiler or a very cool ducktail wing, and yes, how it’s being driven, all point to it being the AMG variant.

Though the 2023 concept was strictly an EV, the CLA’s platform – which will spawn two CLA SUVs and a shooting brake – can handle electric and combustion powertrains, and we’re expecting both AMG and non-AMG models to offer each type. The absence of a grille opening and tailpipes, plus the spy photographer’s assurance that the sedan made zero noise while kicking up those rooster tails tells us this one is an EV. And the fact that the snow is being sprayed by all four wheels means it’s all-wheel drive, as you’d expect from a modern AMG.

 

We didn’t get to look inside the CLA on this occasion, but we did on our last encounter with a non-AMG version. The resulting images show that the interior wouldn’t be quite as wild as the one in the concept. The production car will have less separation between the sausage-shaped dashboard structure and the center console, but we’re still confident Mercedes will equip the models we can buy with a full-width screen, even if you have to dig into the options list to get it.

One design feature that will be carried across from the concept is the three-pointed star DRLs fitted front and back, while the production car should also match the CLA show car’s 750 km electric range in its optimum long-distance configuration, and be able to charge at 250 kW thanks to its 800-volt architecture. The AMG variants won’t be anything like as long-legged, though, due to their bigger power outputs, fatter tires, and higher curb weights.

We’re expecting Mercedes to unveil the production version of the regular CLA this year with single-motor drivetrains, but the Tesla Model 3 Performance-rivalling AMG won’t be added to the lineup until 2025.