The all-new Mercedes-AMG A 45 has been spotted
undergoing testing yet again, with this mule looking a little bit different
from a previous sighting. When it makes its launch debut, the A 45 will sit
pretty at the top of the W177 A-Class range, where it will likely be joined by
a lesser A 35 variant.
The front end still sports quite a bit of camouflage
but the design of the headlamps are clear for all to see given the standard
A-Class has already been revealed. The covered areas mask what is likely a
sportier front bumper as well as a Panamericana grille that is also seen on
other high-end AMG models like the latest 53/43 models.
More camouflage can be found in the vehicle’s rear
to conceal the bumper, although the four exhaust tips can be seen. This setup
differs from the small twin exhaust exits fitted on an earlier mule, and looks
more appropriate for an AMG. Other
highlights include the more prominent brakes that feature drilled discs and
larger calipers, which is again, to be expected of an AMG model.
The biggest and most important concern is
what is going on under the bonnet. On the current W176-based A 45, the M133 2.0
litre turbocharged four-cylinder makes 381 hp and 475 Nm of torque. Rumours
indicate that the horsepower count could climb to over 400, with the 4Matic
all-wheel drive system and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission being updated to
match. That should bring the A 45’s output close to the formidable Audi RS3.
Cr : Paultan