Mercedes launches the new AMG A 45 S 4MATIC and CLA 45 S 4MATIC in South Africa
The Mercedes-AMG compact A 45 4MATIC Hatchback is probably one of the most talked-about cars now and with good reason, I mean it is kind of the most powerful hatchback on the market. Even more exciting news, it has finally arrived in South Africa. If that is not enough to whip out your wallets, Mercedes-AMG has also released the CLA 45 S 4MATIC.
Johannes Fritz, Co-CEO and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa gives insight that the new A45 models were redesigned with one goal in mind, that was to raise the vehicle dynamics and the sporty driving experiences to a level previously unimaginable in the compact class.
This powerful 4-cylinder turbocharged 2.0-litre engine produces a whopping 310KW and 500Nm in both AMG S models. If this is not impressive, the A45 has claimed an impressive 0-100kn/h sprint time of 3.9 seconds and the CLA in 4 seconds dead.
In terms of looks, there is still that distinctive AMG style that we are familiar with. The Mercedes-AMG 45 S comes with the AMG-specific radiator grille, wider front wings with flared wheel arches to create space for the wider front axle, and a front apron featuring a ‘jet-wing’ design.
There are six selectable driving modes including Slippery, Comfort, Sport. Sport +, Individual and Race a standard. This allows the vehicle to have a widespread of characteristics ranging from comfortable to dynamic. The new A45 S also comes with the exciting new drift mode, making a scene of Fast & The Furious look possible.
For all the petrol heads out there who are after sound, Mercedes has got you covered as one of the highlights of driving an AMG is that it maintains its distinctive engine sound. There is some bad news however as the crackles and pops that we are so used to hearing when take-off from its predecessor has disappeared and become a bit quieter.
The interior of this model includes the MBUX infotainment system. Allowing users to be able to choose between three unique AMG display styles for the instrument cluster ranging from Classic, Sport to Supersport.
The Mercedes-AMG 45 S models come with voice control activated with the words ‘Hey Mercedes’ on board.
For those who believe that the only way to enjoy such a powerhouse of a car is on a racetrack, then Mercedes AMG has the AMG TRACK PACE equipped on both 45 S models. Which will continuously monitor more than 80 vehicle-specific data points, including lap and sector time. So, once you are done putting in some quick laps, the driver will have access to the data to analyse and if need be, improve on their driving skills.
Pricing
The Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC retail price is R1 101 000
The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S 4MATIC retail price is R1 211 000
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-AMG A Class and the Mercedes-AMG G Class.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC cost in South Africa?
The Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC starts from around R1,200,000 in South Africa, making it one of the priciest hot hatches on the market but also the most powerful with 310kW under the bonnet.
Q: How fast is the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC?
The A 45 S rockets from 0-100kph in just 3.9 seconds thanks to its turbocharged 2.0-litre engine pumping out 310kW and 500Nm of torque, whilst the CLA 45 S does it in exactly 4.0 seconds.
Q: What's the difference between the A 45 S and CLA 45 S?
Both models pack identical 310kW engines and performance figures, but the A 45 S is a hatchback whilst the CLA 45 S is a four-door coupe with slightly different styling and a 0.1 second slower sprint time to 100kph.
Q: Does the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S have a drift mode?
Yes, the A 45 S comes with an actual drift mode as part of its six driving modes including Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual and Race, letting you channel your inner Ken Block legally on track.
Q: Is the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S worth buying in South Africa?
If you've got deep pockets and want bragging rights to the world's most powerful production hatchback, absolutely, but at over R1.2 million you're paying supercar money for a hot hatch with premium running costs.
Should You Buy It?
The Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC is an absolute weapon that'll embarrass supercars costing twice as much, but at around R1,200,000 it's not for the faint of wallet. This is the ultimate hot hatch for those who want maximum bragging rights and don't mind paying premium prices for 310kW of turbocharged madness. If you're after serious performance under R800,000, consider the BMW M135i xDrive or Audi RS3, but if money's no object and you want the king of hot hatches, the A 45 S is your answer. Just remember you'll be paying AMG service costs and fuel bills that'll make your credit card weep, but that 3.9-second sprint time might just be worth every rand.
