Mercedes-AMG has unveiled its new GLA 45 S – a hot version of the brand’s popular crossover.
Sharing a powertrain with the A 45 and CLA 45 S models, this sporty new GLA utilises a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 415bhp and 500Nm of torque. That means it can reach 0-60mph in just 4.1 seconds and an electronically-limited top speed of 168mph.
It comes as standard with four-wheel-drive, which torque vectoring can distribute the power sent to each wheel, depending on traction and how enthusiastically it’s been driven. A dual-clutch eight-speed ‘speedshift’ automatic transmission also aims to deliver maximum acceleration at all speeds.
Unlike other markets, the UK will just get the most powerful and hardcore ‘S’ derivative – something which brings a sportier styling kit to emphasise its performance credentials. This gives it flared wheel arches, larger alloy wheels, more prominent air intakes and a bigger rear wing.
The interior also gets the AMG treatment, with extras including sports bucket seats, a combination nappa leather/Dinamica steering wheel and special AMG displays on the digital instrument cluster
The new model sits above the 302bhp GLA 35 model in the Mercedes range and rival models like the new Audi RSQ3.
It will go on sale in April, with first deliveries expected in the summer. Pricing is yet to be confirmed but expect the GLA 45 S to cost from between £50,000 and £55,000.
