The Ultimate A-Class: A 45 AMG 4MATIC Arrives in Japan | Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG 4MATIC | Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG 4MATIC

The Ultimate A-Class: A 45 AMG 4MATIC Arrives in Japan

Mercedes-BenzThe highest-performance model of the new A-Class, the "A 45 AMG." In March 2013,83rd Geneva International Motor Showatdebuted, AMG's most powerful production four-cylinder engine has finally landed in Japan.

Text & Event Photographs by OTSUKI Takuma (OPENERS)

Price: 6.4 Million Yen

Peak output of 265 kW (360 hp) / 6,000 rpm, maximum torque of 450 Nm / 2,250-5,000 rpm.

Generating specifications equivalent to or exceeding a supercharged six-cylinder engine from its 2.0-liter four-cylinder twin-scroll turbo engine is the Mercedes-Benz "A-Class" flagship, the "A 45 AMG."A-Classwhich reigns at the pinnacle of theA 45 AMG.

Its output per liter, 133 kW (181 hp), is on par with supercars—as we have reported before.

The highly anticipated "A 45 AMG," which boasts the title of the most powerful four-cylinder production engine and is set to play a crucial role in Mercedes-AMG's future growth strategy, has finally been released in Japan.

Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG 4MATIC Edition 1 | Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG 4MATIC Edition 1

The drivetrain is 4MATIC. This is the first four-wheel-drive system for a Japanese Mercedes-Benz model, based on front-wheel drive. The system achieves lightness by sharing an oil circuit with the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission "AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT." Torque distribution dynamically varies from 100% front/0% rear to 50% front/50% rear, depending on road and driving conditions.

The "AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT" transmission features a launch control function and supports sporty driving in manual "M" mode and sport "S" mode. For everyday use, there is the "C" mode, "Controlled Efficiency," which prioritizes fuel economy and comfort. In this mode, the engine start-stop function is activated.

While the official fuel economy figures for Japan are yet to be announced, European specifications reported 6.9 L/100 km and CO2 emissions of 161 g/km. This suggests an expectation of fuel efficiency close to the "A 250 SPORT's" 15.0 km/L.

The price for owning this small supercar is 6.4 million yen. The steering wheel is on the right side.

Optional packages include the "AMG Advanced Package," which upgrades to a firmer suspension, performance seats, and a steering wheel made of Alcantara and leather, and the "AMG Carbon Package," which finishes the front spoiler lip, side skirts, rear diffuser, and door mirrors in carbon fiber.

Two Edition 1 Variants: A Total of 600 Units Available

Additionally, a limited-edition "Edition 1" model, announced at its European debut, will also be available in Japan.

The Edition 1 is equipped with the "AMG Styling Package," consisting of a dedicated front spoiler, side skirts, and rear skirts, along with exclusive front and rear aerodynamic parts. It will be offered in two body colors: Calcite White and Cosmos Black.

Stripes adorn the hood, roof, and body sides, with red accents on the radiator grille, rear wing, mirror caps, and brake calipers adding a sporty touch.

The matte black lightweight multi-spoke wheels, one inch larger than standard and fitted with AMG hubcaps, are shod with 235/35R19 tires.

The interior features black leather seats and carbon-design trim as its base, complemented by an AMG Performance steering wheel, AMG Performance seats, and an "Edition 1" emblem.

The price is 7.1 million yen. Production is limited to 400 units in Calcite White and 200 units in Cosmos Black.