The new Mercedes-Benz CLA (codenamed C118) will only
make its global debut in January next year, and will include two
high-performance AMG models in the form of the CLA 35 and CLA 45, as these spyshots
suggest.
Clear visual cues that mark out the CLA 45 include
the Panamericana grille upfront and four circular exhaust tips at the rear,
while the CLA 35 gets a single-slat grille and dual exhausts. These cues aren’t
unlike those seen on the W177 A-Class, which is available in A 35 guise and
soon, an A 45 as well.
Looking at both test mules a little closer, you’ll
also notice the CLA 45 gets more prominent air intakes on the front bumper and
additional fins on its rear diffuser when compared to the CLA 35.
While there’s been no word on specifications, the
CLA 35 will most likely get the same M260 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol engine
from the A 35. The mill features a twin-scroll turbocharger and produces 306 hp
400 Nm of torque, with a seven-speed AMG Speedshift dual-clutch transmission
and AMG Performance 4Matic fully variable all-wheel drive system to guide power
to the wheels.
As for the CLA 45, we’ll have to wait for
Mercedes-AMG to official reveal the A 45 to have any inkling on what will go
under its bonnet. For now, the A 45 is rumoured to also get a 2.0 litre turbo
engine that makes over 395 hp, with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The all-wheel
drive system in the A 45 (and CLA 45) can operate purely as a rear-wheel drive
when put into a dedicated drift mode.
Cr : Paultan
