Mercedes-AMG Update Its Smaller Cars With New Tech
Mercedes-AMG has given its entry-level models, the CLA 45 4MATIC, CLA 45 4MATIC Shooting Brake and GLA 45 4MATIC, a comprehensive update and as such is offering even more driving pleasure and emotional appeal than ever before in the compact car segment. The technical innovations and further individualised items of equipment are set to place the sporty powerhouses ahead of the competition once more.
The vehicles are available to order with immediate effect and will be in dealerships starting September. In Germany, the CLA 45 4MATIC costs €56,673.75, the CLA 45 4MATIC Shooting Brake €57,268.75 and the GLA 45 4MATIC €56,168.00
As already seen on the recently launched A 45 4MATIC, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine now produces 381 hp, representing an increase of 21 hp over the preceding models. The maximum torque of the world’s most powerful series production four-cylinder engine has been increased by 25 Nm to 475 Nm. The revised gear-ratio steps of the 7-speed dual clutch transmission and the new DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, familiar from the Mercedes-AMG GT, lift overall performance to an even higher level.
Driving dynamics can be further enhanced with optional extras in the guise of the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension and the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package. The comprehensive modifications to the engine, transmission, suspension, electronics and equipment promise a further improvement to the highly dynamic driving experience.’
The breath-taking performance plays a significant role here: the CLA 45 4MATIC now accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, which is 0.4 seconds faster than its predecessors (Shooting Brake: 4.3 seconds, GLA: 4.4 seconds). At the same time it has been possible to retain the textbook consumption level on par with the previous models: even the NEDC fuel consumption figures of the CLA 45 4MATIC and CLA 45 4MATIC Shooting Brake, from as low as 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres (corresponding to 161 g/km CO2), can be considered exemplary. The GLA 45 4MATIC consumes 7.4 l/100 km (corresponding to 172 g/km CO2).
The engine, transmission and steering characteristics of the Mercedes-AMG compact models can be changed via rotary switch with the new, standard-fit AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes. There is a choice of four modes, namely “Comfort“, “Sport”, “Sport+” and “Individual” or “Race” (in conjunction with AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension).
Another new feature is the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package, which sharpens the driving dynamics even further. One major component is the newly developed, mechanical front axle locking differential, which significantly improves traction when driving in a sporty style. The greatest advantages become apparent during powerful acceleration out of bends, where the locking differential allows maximum grip and high lateral acceleration. In addition, the compact sports models are stabilised even more effectively during load changes and in the high-speed range.
The AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package also includes the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension (€1237.60 when ordered individually): this comprises the additional “Race” transmission mode as well as two-stage adaptive adjustable damping. The system operates fully automatically, adapting the damping forces for each wheel according to the driving situation and road conditions.
Another dominant factor in the agile and dynamic character of the power transfer is the standard-fit AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission. Thanks to the now shorter transmission ratios in 3rd to 7th gear, the driver experiences even more dynamic acceleration in all speed ranges. This is because together with optimised response and shift times, the closer ratio spread ensures better transitions when upshifting.
Also as standard, the new AMG compact sports cars transfer the driving power to all four wheels for optimum traction and maximum driving pleasure. The stepless torque distribution of the AMG Performance 4MATIC system ranges from 100 percent front-wheel drive through to a 50:50 split between the front and rear axles. A multiple-disc clutch integrated into the rear axle differential redirects the engine torque to the rear wheels as required within fractions of a second.
About the Author
Subhash Nair Written work on dsf.my. @subhashtag on instagram. Autophiles Malaysia on Youtube.
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