Mercedes-Benz and AMG – possibly the world’s best factory-based high performance partnership – breaks new ground at next month’s Geneva Motor Show with the global debut of its first compact car – the stunning a 45 AMG.
Powered by a neck-wrenching 265kW/450Nm turbocharged 2.0-litre engine (claimed to be the world’s most powerful mass-produced four-cylinder turbo) driving all four wheels through the AMG seven-speed automatic transmission with software modules from the SLS AMG supercar, the Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG covers the standing 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds – that’s over one second faster than Volkswagen’s Golf R.
The chassis is staggeringly high-tech and performance drivers will relish the three-stage ESP system which includes both ‘ESP Curve Dynamic Assist’ (brakes inside wheels for precise cornering) and ‘ESP Sport Handling’ with later intervention of the ESP system. Or you switch-off the ESP altogether.
Suspension sees a total AMG package with a unique four-link rear axle and 18-inch alloy wheels.
On the outside is a host of AMG goodies including the distinctive ‘twin-blade’ radiator grille in matt titanium grey, black flics for the side air intakes, AMG side sills and a superb rear-end with air outlet openings and a matt titanium grey underbody diffuser.
On the options list are 19-inch alloy wheels and an aero kit with an AMG rear aerofoil or a carbon fibre kit comprising front splitter and side sill panel inserts.
Inside is the usual AMG kit – leather-trimmed sports seats with contrasting red stitching, AMG instruments, red seat belts and carbon-fibre look highlights.
And if all that’s not enough, you can go further with the Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG ‘Edition 1’ with even racier kit inside and out.
