The CLA45 is definitely the next big thing going to the US market. And while it will probably be the first four-cylinder in AMG’s line-up, make no mistake about it: this compact sports sedan means business.
Although traditionally associated with V8 or V12 engines, AMG redesigned the 2.-liter turbo motor for this application. Based upon an existing Mercedes production engine, the AMG version has a sand-cast aluminum cylinder block with forged internals to handle the 322 lb-ft of twist available from 2250-5000rpm (boost arrives around 3000rpm in the lower gears).
In order to produce 355hp at 6000rpm, the engine also has staged direct injection, air-to-water intercooling, a big 3″””” exhaust, twin-scroll turbo, and a redesigned cylinder head pressurized to 26psi. So, not only does the CLA45 beat every four-cylinder on the planet; but the hand-built engine also claims the best specific output with an astounding 178hp/liter. And yes itSo, anew and lighter, standard 4Matic system kicks the rear wheels into play via a Power Takeoff Unit (PTU) from the rear diff. An integrated clutch electronically engages whenever it detects front-wheel slip, high lateral g, an aggressive steering angle, high vehicle speed, or specific throttle positions.
As a result, not only do you will get improved fuel economy, but torque-steer is undetectable. When pushed, the vehicle handles and accelerates such as an AWD, without the extreme understeer of brands that use a 50/50 torque split.
As a result, AMG claims -60mph in 4.5sec, because of launch control, a close-ratio seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and a feathery (by today’s standards) 3380 lb curb weight.
Although this might sound too good to be real, we were fortunate enough to experience the CLA45 AMG (as well as the European A45 AMG hatchback that’s not coming to the usa) at the newest Bilster Berg racetrack in Paderborn, Germany. And we’re proud to have been the first toconsider it that? ) can be a 19-turn, 2.6-mile course devised by F1 track designer, Hermann Tilke, and took seven years to develop. It features two straights, elevation changes, with both low- and high-speed corners. The configuration pounds a car’s engine, brakes and suspension, that was a great test for any high-end car as well as a bold move by AMG.
On track, the CLA45 rocks. The only limiting factor was the driver along with the tires, with the latter overheating after a few hot laps. When you got too aggressive, fortunately, the car remained stable but the ESP Dynamic Assist took over.
When you start to lose front traction when tracking-out, the rear tires receive more torque to propel you back into line. It may possibly not be the visceral experience some purists desire, but it’s certainly fast.
The four-cylinder has the midrange flexibility of the 5. V8, and the exhaust note delivers a deep roar when the automatic flap opens.
2014 mercedes benz CLA45 AMG turbo AMG
2014 mercedes benz CLA45 AMG carbon fiber lip spoiler
2014 mercedes benz CLA45 AMG slotted brake rotors
The transmission also emits an audible engagement with every up-shift that’s impossible to disregard – a characteristic in the AMG SLS GT, it’s awesome.
Suspension-wise, the CLA45 AMG has multi-link front and back axles. The top uses stiffer steering knuckles for high camber stability, better turn-in precision and high-speed cornering stability. Even though the four-link rear axle is very new.
Needless to say, an AMG vehicle needs sporty styling, and while the exterior borrows through the successful CLS55 AMG, the interior features sport seats wrapped with Artico man-made leather and Dinamica fibers with red stitching. AMG even offers optional carbon fiber trim.
Overall, the cockpit combines style and luxury with good ergonomics. On entry you immediately notice the aggressive lateral support from the Recaro seats. You won’t look at it much, though perhaps the only quirkiness was the funky transmission lever.Basically we personally much like the CLA45 aesthetic, we’d want to see more tire width and rear fender flare. From the rear, the 235-section tires don’t give the look of an autobahn sled. Also increase the overall performance – something the aftermarket will certainly offer?, although going up a couple of rim sizes would not just improve the look?
AMG has a 19″””” wheel option as well as carbon fiber spoilers and black exterior trim to give customers sporting options at the purpose of sale, however.
With the creation of the CLA45 AMG, it’s time for the competition to sit down up and take notice. This is the first time Mercedes has entered the premium compact sports sedan market with such an aggressive package that will undoubtedly win new followers from BMW and Audi, as well as the Asian brands that can’t match Mercedes-Benz heritage.
We predict you’ll be seeing the vast majority of CLA45 and CLA250 AMG on the road when it arrives in the US this November.
2014 mercedes benz CLA45 AMG navigation steering controls
2014 mercedes benz CLA45 AMG shift mechanism
2014 mercedes benz CLA45 AMG interior
2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG
Layout Transverse, front-mounted engine
Engine 1991cc inline-DOHC, 16v, 4, turbocharged and intercooled, direct injection, twin-scroll turbo, 26.1psi
Drivetrain AMG Speedshift DCT seven-speed transmission, 4Matic all-wheel drive
Suspension McPherson axle f, four-link axle r, both with coil springs, gas shock absorbers, anti-roll bars
Brakes 13.8″””” cross-drilled rotors, four-piston calipers f, 13″”””, two-piston r
Wheels & Tires 18×8″”””, 235/40 R18 Dunlop Sportmaxx (optional 19×8″”””, 235/35 R19 Dunlop Sportmaxx)
MSRP $48375
Performance
Power 355hp at 6000rpm
Torque 332 lb-ft at 2250-5000rpm
-60mph 4.5sec
Top Speed 155mph (limited)
Weight 3380 lb
Economy TBD