Mercedes-AMG is now quite close to unveiling a hot version of the CLA four-door coupe, evidenced by a teaser image published to their social media channels. The upcoming CLA 35, despite being an all-new variant for the stylishly small Merc, doesn’t really hold any surprise, however.
We already know the raw ingredients AMG uses to make an A 35, and due to the CLA being so closely relate to the five-door hatch, both car should be mechanically identical. And given the timing, a debut at the New York Motor Show is more than likely.
The car should have a launch window not far from its public unveil, and upon its arrival will only stay top dog of the Mercedes-AMG range until Affalterbach chooses to push out its more potent 45 series of compact high performance models such as the A 45 and, of course, the CLA 45.
Back to the soon-to-be-revealed A 35, which is already an open secret, the car will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that outputs an impressive 225kW and 400Nm sent to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual clutch transmission.
Though destined to play second fiddle to the ’45, the CLA 35 still packs one heck of wallop, dispensing 100km/h from rest in 4.7 seconds and on to a top speed electronically limited to 250km/h. In the hands of the right driver, it’s not a stretch to imagine the lesser baby AMG to give some supercars a tough time, especially over a tight and technical bit of backroad.
Its hatchback sibling, the AMG A 35, already has made enemies with heavyweights such as the Volkswagen Golf R, Audi S3, and Ford Focus RS. The CLA 35 will be the obvious choice for those looking for a posher alternative, but with the same sort of firepower. Don't be expecting it to look drastically different to the A 35 Saloon, though.
Can’t wait for the Shooting Brake body style.
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