New Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4Matic+ is an AWD hot hatch for rough roads

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The high-performance variant of the second generation GLA has made its debut in AMG GLA 45 and AMG GLA 45 S guises. Compared to the GLA 35 model, the 45 looks a bit hot hatch-ish like with that large rear spoiler.

Other exterior highlights include Panamericana grille and aerodynamically optimized 19-inch light-alloy wheels. The ‘S’ model rides on 20-inch wheels in a 5-twin-spoke design. The ‘S’ model is also distinguished by its larger, 92 mm oval exhaust tailpipes with AMG lettering.

As you might expect, the GLA 45 models are powered by the new 2.0L ‘M139’ engine, which debuted in 2019 as the world’s most powerful turbocharged 4-cylinder series production engine.

The engine produces 285 kW (387 hp) at 6,500 rpm and 480 Nm of torque between 4,750-5,000 rpm. In the ‘S’ guise, the output is, of course, 310 kW (421 hp) at 6,750 rpm and 500 Nm of torque between 5,000-5,250 rpm. An AMG Speedshift 8-speed dual-clutch transmission sends power to all four wheels via 4Matic+ fully variable all-wheel drive system with AMG Torque Control.

The GLA 45 S is claimed to sprint from 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds and on to a top speed of 270 km/h (electronically limited).

The AMG Dynamic Select offers 6 programs: Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual, and Race (standard on 45 S).

The body shell has been reinforced too for precise steering characteristics, as well as track and camber stability when driving at high speeds, the company said. An aluminium plate called ‘shearing plate’ has been bolted underneath the engine for increased torsional rigidity at the front end. In addition, there are diagonal struts at the front and rear of the underbody to further improve rigidity.

Other features include the AMG Ride Control adaptive damping system with three modes.

As for braking, the base model has 350 x 34 mm discs at the front with 4-piston monobloc fixed calipers, while at the rear, there are 330 x 22 mm discs with single-piston floating calipers.

Buyers can opt for AMG Dynamic Plus package, which comes with larger 360 x 36 mm discs at the front with 6-piston fixed calipers. Here, the calipers are painted Red with a Black AMG logo.