Following a comprehensive upgrade, the Mercedes-AMG A 45 4MATIC opens up a new dimension in vehicle dynamics. With peak output of 280 kW (381 hp) and a maximum torque of 475 Nm, the entry-level model from Mercedes-AMG is the world’s most powerful compact sports model. The revised gear ratios, aerodynamic fine-tuning and the new DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes raise overall performance to a higher level. The compact saloon absolves a sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, 0.4 seconds faster than the preceding model. Maximum traction also on tight bends is ensured by the standard all-wheel drive and the optional front axle differential available for the first time. At the same time fuel consumption has remained as before: no other high-performance model in this class can better its NEDC fuel consumption from 6.9 liters per 100 kilometers (corresponding to 162 g/km CO2).
“We never rest on our laurels, but constantly strive to develop our products further,” says Tobias Moers, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “The A 45 still had so much improvement potential that we felt compelled to realize it to the full. Our brand claim simply obliges us to.” The AMG development team optimized numerous features of the compact bestseller to further enhance the vehicle dynamics and driving pleasure.
Modifications to the transmission, suspension, electronics, design and appointments have turned the compact sports model into a completely new car delivering 280 kW (381 hp) and 475 newton meters of maximum torque unrivalled by any competitior: 100 km/h is already reached from standstill in 4.2 seconds. This means that the new Mercedes-AMG A 45 accelerates 0.4 seconds faster than its predecessor.
Fuel consumption at the level of the preceding A 45 AMG model
At the same time its fuel consumption has been kept at the previous level: its NEDC fuel consumption starts from 6.9 liters per 100 kilometers (corresponds to 162 g/km CO2). The turbocharged four-cylinder engine combines its power and efficiency to produce an output of 141 kW (191 hp) per liter marks a record for a series production four-cylinder engine.
The engine specialists at AMG mainly achieved this increase in power output with a newly configured valve assembly. In addition the combustion processes have been optimised by reconfigured timing and turbocharging. The maximum charge pressure continues to be 1.8 bar.
The exhaust system features an automatically controlled exhaust flap as standard. The emotional appeal of the engine sound can be varied depending on driving mode or at the touch of a button.
The new AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes
Already familiar from the Mercedes-AMG GT sports car and the Mercedes-AMG C 63, the DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport +” and “Individual” now also allow the driver of the Mercedes-AMG A 45 to preset the handling characteristics according to personal preferences or the driving situation.
Driving mode “Comfort” allows non-stressful driving with a subdued engine note and gentle gearshifts. The “sailing” function installed for the first time, plus the ECO start/stop system, help to save fuel. “Sport” mode emphasises agility and driving pleasure, with a sporty engine and transmission configuration. The sound of the turbocharged engine becomes more throaty.
In “Sport +” mode the transmission responds even faster to dynamic load changes. The shift strategy of the transmission is modified for the needs of a very sporty driving style – including shorter shift times, double declutching and faster responses to the accelerator. Over and above the preconfigured modes, the “Individual” driving mode makes it possible to vary individual parameters for the engine, transmission mode and 3-stage ESP®.
The AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package as an optional extra
Completely new for the Mercedes-AMG A 45, the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package sharpens up the vehicle dynamics. One major component is the newly developed, mechanical front axle locking differential, which significantly improves traction when driving in a sporty style. The biggest advantages become apparent during fast acceleration out of bends, where the locking differential allows maximum grip and high rates of lateral acceleration. Moreover, the A 45 is stabilized more effectively during load changes and at high speeds.
The AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package also includes the AMG RIDE CONTROL sport suspension: one of its new features is the two-stage, adaptive damping adjustment. The system operates fully automatically, adapting the damping forces for each wheel according to the driving situation and road conditions. The driver is also able to preselect the basic damping characteristics in two stages for a personally configured setup. The RIDE CONTROL sport suspension is also available individually as a separate optional extra. The speed-sensitive sports power steering of the A 45 supports a sporty driving style with its steering precision and direct self-steering characteristics. It likewise has two different sets of characteristics: depending on which damper setup the driver has selected, it provides a taut, sporty or more comfortable steering feedback.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sport transmission
Another dominant factor in the agile and dynamic character of the power transfer is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sport transmission. Thanks to the now shorter transmission ratios in 3rd to 7th gear, the driver experiences more dynamic acceleration in all speed ranges. Together with optimized response and shift times, the closer ratio spread ensures better transitions when upshifting.
The all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC
The AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system combines optimized traction with driving pleasure. To suit the dynamic handling requirements, the Mercedes-AMG A 45 features infinitely variable torque distribution. The range extends from front-wheel drive only to a 50:50 percent distribution to the front and rear axles.
Design and aerodynamics of the A 45 AMG
The influences from motor sport are apparent in the new Mercedes-AMG A 45. The front skirt in the new A-wing design gives the compact proportions an sportier emphasis. The distinctive, three-dimensional A-wing also acts as an air feed to the three exclusively styled, AMG-specific cooling air inlets. New LED High Performance headlamps with “eyebrows” as daytime driving lamps are included as standard. The rear apron with four vertical fins and a striking spoiler lip in the diffuser provides a visual highlight.
The aerodynamics of the A 45 have been improved by the AMG developers. The aim for a sports car is not only to achieve perfect streamlining, but also the greatest possible downforce. In the A 45 the new combination of a spoiler lip under the front splitter, a rear apron with a diffuser insert and an AMG spoiler lip on the roof spoiler generates more downforce for increased handling stability. These measures also improve the aerodynamic balance, with a positive effect on handling.
Source: Mercedes AMG
