New Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 Revealed

Mercedes-AMG has revealed its flagship GLA model, the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45. There are no surprises. We have already seen the new GLA Class and we know the AMG 45 engine from its release within the A 45 and the CLA 45 last year.

The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 gets the 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder in-line engine in two flavours. A standard version offers 387 hp with an ‘S’ model pushing 421 hp. The two models get 480 Nm and 500 Nm of torque respectively.

Power is routed through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission the standard model manages the 100 km/h sprint 0.1 seconds slower than the ‘S’ which hits the benchmark in 4.3 seconds. The top speeds at 250 km/h and 270 km/h. Both models feature 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a rear axle differential which makes torque vectoring possible.

Mercedes-AMG GLA 45

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An AMG Dynamics system offers “Basic”, “Advanced”, “Pro” and “Master” modes. These work alongside the 4MATIC settings which include “Slippery”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport+”, “Individual” and “RACE”. Their functions will be familiar to anyone who has driven a modern era Mercedes-AMG (or any other performance car for that matter!). The “Race-Start” mode allows a quick getaway!

In terms of bodywork, the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 gets an AMG-specific radiator grille, large front air intakes and flared wheel arches. At the rear, two 82 mm round twin tailpipes (90 mm oval tailpipes for the ‘S’), a wider rear bumper and a rear diffuser and spoiler combination complete the look.

As standard, the GLA 45 gets 19-inch light-alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design as standard. A set of 21-inch light-alloy wheels are available as an option.

The 45 gets a lightweight aluminium plate bolted underneath the engine which improves torsional rigidity.

The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 gets an AMG-specific MBUX infotainment system. There are three AMG display styles “Classic”, “Sport” and “Supersport” for the instrument cluster. The later makes the rev-counter central and presents additional information in the form of bars to the left and right of the rev counter.

Pricing and availability are yet to be announced.