Mercedes has just released a big image gallery of
its newest AMG models, namely the A45 and CLA45, which claim to offer junior
supercar performance in a compact footprint. Both of AMG’s new babies are
using a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that cranks out 382 hp and 480 Nm of torque in the case of the basic 45 version and
415 hp and 368lb-ft of torque in the range-topping 45 S models.
All this power goes to all four wheels via a new
eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, making it possible for the A45 S to reach
the 62mph mark from naught in just 3.9 seconds. The more powerful S models also
benefit from a rather self-explanatory Drift mode.
The basic A 45 model can achieve a 0-100 km/h in 4 seconds flat (CLA 45 in 4.1 sec) while the A 45 S requires just 3.9
seconds for the same procedure (CLA 45 S in 4.0 sec). Top speed for the basic
45 models is electronically capped at 250 km/h, with the S variants
able to go all the way up to 270 km/h.
AMG has also reinforced the bodyshell of the new 45
models with a lightweight aluminum plate underneath the engine, a front tower
brace, a set of plates between the side members and the A-pillars, as well as
diagonal struts both at the front and the rear of the underbody.
The result is a stiffer shell for the suspension to
bolt on, providing a much better basis for it to work with in order to extract
the performance required. The more powerful 45 S models also benefit from AMG’s
Torque Control System, which uses two multidisc clutches in the rear
differential to precisely control and distribute the torque to each individual
rear wheel.
