A High-Performance Engine True to AMG's Philosophy

Equipped with the World's Most Powerful Production 4-Cylinder Turbo Engine—This compact Mercedes, bearing the tagline "the world's most powerful production 4-cylinder turbo engine," is the "A 45 AMG 4MATIC," launched in Japan last July.

This model, the smallest in AMG's history and notably the first to be developed based on an FF layout, also made headlines for its price point—mid-6 million yen range, a significant departure from the usual over 10 million yen for previous AMG vehicles.



The transmission is exclusively the 7-speed DCT, dubbed "AMG Speedshift DCT." AMG has long embraced "2-pedal transmissions," and the absence of a manual option even in this class underscores the era's shift towards "2-pedal for sports models."

Unsurprisingly, its performance figures are remarkable.

An Exhaust Note Befitting an AMG Creation

With the help of its 4WD system, enabling a "catapult launch," the 0-100 km/h acceleration time is a mere 4.6 seconds. With a governed top speed of 250 km/h, its swiftness can truly be described as being on par with super sports cars.

However, its exterior is surprisingly (or perhaps not?) understated.

Nevertheless, the emphasized intake section at the front, dedicated grille, side skirts, and rear air outlets clearly signal to those in the know that this is a high-performance version distinct from the base model. For those seeking a bit more flair, the "AMG Carbon Package," featuring front spoiler lip, side skirts, and rear diffuser in carbon fiber, offers an option to enhance its individuality.



In any case, the redesigned A-Class, with its bolder proportions—longer and lower than its predecessor—undoubtedly has a greater potential to be chosen for its looks alone, thanks to its dynamic styling. The AMG version's exterior design, then, appears to be a brilliant enhancement of this already striking new A-Class.

With red accents added to the seats and dashboard, and exclusive AMG designs incorporated into the shift selector and meters, we turn the key to start the engine.

What immediately impresses at this stage is the dramatic exhaust note.



On the other hand, what will undoubtedly impress everyone is its sheer speed.

Direct and Engaging Handling

Despite its highly tuned engine producing 180 ps per liter, it delivers substantial torque even below 2,000 rpm, making it remarkably easy to drive in city conditions. However, its true potential is unleashed above approximately 3,000 rpm. The acceleration presses you firmly into the seat, and the engine feels like it spins powerfully to the 6,200 rpm redline in an instant.

The test drive model was equipped with the optional "AMG Performance Suspension," featuring stiffer springs and dampers, in addition to the standard tuned setup. Consequently, its ride quality is decidedly "hardcore." It felt as though it could effortlessly handle a circuit track without modification.

The connection to the road is palpable, and the steering response is impressively direct. These characteristics certainly befit a sporty model.



The brakes are equally satisfying, with excellent pedal feel and stopping power. The enhanced system, visible through the 18-inch wheels with its red calipers, is clearly not just for show.

However, the high roll rigidity and limited suspension travel made the ride feel somewhat too stiff on public roads. Particularly on wet surfaces, the front end's stiffness tended to induce early understeer, requiring constant attention to the front tire grip limits and diminishing the sense of handling freedom at times.

For those primarily using the car on public roads, opting for the standard "AMG Sports Suspension" would likely be more suitable. This would also offer advantages in terms of everyday comfort, mitigating the direct impact harshness that this model struggles with.

The significant growth in Mercedes-Benz sales in recent years is largely driven by the strong performance of models like the A-Class, known globally as "compact Mercedes."

A similar phenomenon is likely to extend to the "4-cylinder AMG" models, following their introduction in the A-Class, CLA-Class, and GLA-Class.

Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG 4MATIC
Body Dimensions | Length 4,355 x Width 1,780 x Height 1,420 mm
Wheelbase | 2,700 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,555 / 1,560 mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,550 kg
Engine | 1,991cc Inline-4 DOHC Direct Injection Turbo
Compression Ratio | 8.6:1
Bore x Stroke | 83.0 x 92.0 mm
Max Output | 265 kW (360 ps) / 6,000 rpm
Max Torque | 450 Nm (45.9 kgm) / 2,250-5,000 rpm
Transmission | 7-speed Automatic (7G-DCT)
Drivetrain | 4WD
Brakes | Ventilated Discs
Trunk Capacity | 341-1,157 Liters
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.1 Meters
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 13.1 km/ℓ
Price | 6,582,000 Yen

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