Mercedes-Benz has just revealed an even hotter AMG version of its new CLA four-door coupe. More power, a reinforced chassis, and more AMG styling set the CLA 45 AMG apart from the rest of the line.
The engine is an all-new 2.0L turbo four. While the outgoing CLA 45 had one of the most powerful fours around, this one boosts it by 7 hp and 4 lb-ft for 382 hp and 354 lb-ft. That's an astonishing 191 hp/L. Mercedes-Benz says that it has a new turbo with roller bearings like the 4.0L AMG V8 for quicker response, and the twin-scroll unit can pack in as much as 30 psi of boost. MB uses oil, water, and air ducting to cool the hard-working turbo. Even cooler, the new engine will be hand-assembled like the AMG V8s. An AMG variable exhaust is standard.
Putting that power to the pavement is an AMG 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system. AMG torque control distributes power between the front wheels, but also back and forth to each rear wheel. There's even a drift mode available inside the Race driving mode for sending more power to the rear wheels.
With an eight-speed dual-clutch auto banging out shifts, the CLA 45 can hit 100 km/h from a stop in 4.1 seconds. Strangely, though, since we're getting the upcoming GLC 63 in quicker S trim only, there's no mention from Mercedes-Benz Canada about the 421 hp CLA 45 S coming here.
The suspension gets special AMG bushings, links, and a unique front steering knuckle. The AMG ride control suspension is adaptive, responding to various road conditions. There are three modes allowing the driver to pick more comfort or sharper handling. There's a speed-sensitive steering rack with a variable ratio that allows for two assist curves based on which drive modes are picked.
Bringing the hot CLA to a halt are new four-piston front brake callipers with larger rotors. Pick the Track Package and get even bigger brakes. Six-piston front clamps with 360 mm discs, set off with red paint instead of the grey of the four-pots.
To help the performance parts of the CLA 45 AMG work together, Mercedes has reinforced the chassis. An aluminum plate underneath, strut tower brace and new side member supports, as well as additional underbody bracing front and rear let the suspension do its job.
In AMG-spec, the CLA starts to look much more like the four-door AMG GT. Starting with the Panamericana vertical bar nose. There's a more aggressive lower intake and flared front arches. Opting for the AMG Aero Pack adds a new front splitter with more aero elements and an extra blade in the diffuser. Plus an even larger rear spoiler. 18-inch AMG alloys are standard, with 19-inch as an option.
Inside, the CLA 45 AMG gets more heavily contoured sports seats and an AMG Performance steering wheel. The centre console houses the drive and suspension mode buttons, along with the toggle for the loud exhaust. Mercedes adds AMG-specific content to the MBUX infotainment system such as new graphics. There's also an optional AMG Track Pace mode that gives you real-time information, comparing lap times to help improve performance.
The new CLA 45 AMG is set to arrive here later this year.
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