Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG revealed

The Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG has been revealed.

Destined to become the crown in the new GLA line-up, the all-wheel-drive compact SUV uses the same turbocharged 2.0-litre engine as the A45 AMG and CLA45 AMG, meaning outputs of 355bhp and 332lb ft of torque.

The engine is mated to the AMG Speedshift DCT 7-speed transmission, which allows drivers to choose from three performance profiles named Manual, Sport and Controlled Efficiency. The latter mode is geared towards maximising fuel efficiency, and also activates the car’s stop/start function.

The GLA45 AMG is due to go on sale in the spring alongside the standard GLA, after a debut at next week’s Detroit motor show. The car has a claimed 0-62mph time of 4.8sec and a top speed limited to 155mph. Combined economy is rated at 37.6mpg, meaning CO2 emissions of 175g/km.

Additional AMG modifications over a standard GLA include sports suspension, high-performance brakes, an AMG sports exhaust system and an exterior bodykit. Bespoke interior trim on the car includes a performance steering wheel, performance leather seats and carbonfibre trim. The car grows the AMG SUV lineup to five models, with the GLA45 AMG sitting alongside the ML63 AMG, GL63 AMG, G63 AMG and G65 AMG.

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