With 381 PS and the ability to
sprint to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, the outgoing Mercedes-AMG A45 is no
slouch. Its successor, however, will be even more exciting, as Affalterbach’s
engineers have prepped a new turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine, tuning
it to produce in excess of 400 hp.
Directing output to the 4Matic permanent all-wheel
drive system will be a dual-clutch eight-speed automatic transmission. And for
the first time ever, the Mercedes-AMG A45 will get a computer-controlled Drift
mode, which will allow more gifted drivers to keep the car sideways.
The automaker continues to keep the entire front
end, side skirts and rear diffuser under wraps. But since the regular A-Class
models are already out, as well as the current range-topping A35, we know what
to expect in terms of styling.
Thus, get ready for wider bumpers, differently
styled side skirts and a modified diffuser incorporating the quad exhaust tips.
Also, making the new A45 more visible will be the large Panamericana grille,
with vertical slats, identical to the ones used by other modern AMGs.
Sportier front seats, AMG badging and different
upholstery/trim combos will set the cabin apart from the rest of the new
A-Class range, and the piece du resistance inside will be the MBUX infotainment
system. The latest spy video shows a prototype of the new A45 AMG attacking
the Nurburgring and reveals the sound of the engine under full throttle. It
also shows it being driven the streets near the famous German track, for a few
precious moments.
