Jump to content
Create New...
  • William Maley
    William Maley

    Detroit Auto Show: Haven't You Wanted A Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG?

      Mercedes releases pictures of the of production GLA45 AMG just before the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.


    Almost two months after Mercedes-Benz showed off the Concept GLA45 AMG at the 2013 Los Angeles auto show, the German luxury automaker has revealed the production GLA45 AMG before its official debut at Detroit.

    If you're having a bit of of déjà vu, you're not the only one. The concept and production GLA45 AMG are essentially the same in their design. On the outsider, there is a unique front fascia with a twin-blade grille, a choice of three different wheel options, and a rear-diffuser with dual exhausts. The inside is similar to the CLA45 AMG with new seats, a floating screen for the infotainment system, and other tweaks to make it feel like an AMG product.

    Under the hood, there is a turbocharged, 2.0L four-cylinder engine with 355 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel help get all of that power to the wheels. The German automaker quotes a 0-60 MPH time of 4.8 seconds - just three-tenths slower than the CLA45 AMG.

    The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG goes on sale in the U.S. this fall.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

    William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected]or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

    Press Release is on Page 2


    The new Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG

    • Compact SUV with Driving Performance

    Mercedes-AMG rigorously continues its product initiative: with the new GLA45 AMG the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz makes a dynamic statement in the strongly growing segment of compact SUVs. The combination of powerful-distinctive design, exclusive appointments as well as superior engine power and driving performance is unique: the most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine in the world puts 355 hp of power and 332 lb-ft of torque on the road.

    The GLA45 AMG also holds pole position with regard to driving dynamics: it accelerates from zero to 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited). Thanks to the combination of standard performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC four wheel drive and AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, the GLA45 AMG impresses with its equally sporty and efficient drive system concept.

    Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Management Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "The response to the Concept GLA45 AMG during the world premiere at the Los Angeles International Auto Show has reaffirmed our decision to launch this new AMG model. Currently no segment is growing faster than that of compact SUVs. For Mercedes-AMG it is therefore logical to make a dynamic statement in this segment with the GLA45 AMG. Our new high-performance-SUV not only offers the world's most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine, but also impressively low fuel consumption and emissions figures. Not least on account of the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC four wheel drive, the GLA45 AMG is a true AMG when it comes to driving dynamics."

    Young target group: styling, dynamics and independence

    In addition to the CLA45 AMG, the GLA45 AMG is the second vehicle with a four-cylinder turbo engine to appeal to a young target group. Customers take a great interest in styling, dynamics and independence – traits that are perfectly embodied in the new high-performance SUV from Affalterbach. Meeting a wide variety of customer desires has always been one of the strengths of Mercedes-AMG. The GLA45 AMG now expands the extensive high-performance SUV lineup to four models in the U.S. (GLA45 AMG, ML63 AMG, GL63 AMG, and G63 AMG). Mercedes-AMG thus offers the widest range of SUVs among all high-performance premium brands.

    Hallmark AMG features: the world's most powerful series-produced four-cylinder engine

    Best in class: the GLA45 AMG engine fully lives up to this claim, as a look at the figures shows. The AMG 2.0-liter turbo engine is the most powerful series production four-cylinder turbo engine in the world. It produces 355 hp of power and develops a peak torque of 332 lb-ft. A power output of 178 hp puts the AMG high-performance turbo engine on a par with the world's most powerful super sports cars.

    Development of the high-performance turbo engine placed emphasis on a sustainable reduction in particulate emissions. The AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine features spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors positioned centrally in the four combustion chambers and an injection pressure of 200 bar. The combination of multiple fuel injection and multiple spark ignition improves fuel economy and significantly increases the thermodynamic efficiency, leading to low exhaust emissions. The injection system's outstanding flexibility also ensures a high degree of freedom in terms of application. There are up to five injections per combustion cycle in the coldstart and warm-up phase, which is so crucial for emissions. One of the key factors for in-engine particulate reduction is a reduction of the individual injection quantities.

    Further highlights of the AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine:

    • Gravity-die sand-cast all-aluminum crankcase
    • Weight-optimized crank mechanism with forged steel crankshaft
    • Forged pistons with friction-optimized piston rings
    • NANOSLIDE cylinder liner technology
    • Air-to-water intercooling system
    • Alternator management
    • ECO start/stop function

    Twin-scroll turbocharger and AMG sports exhaust system with variable vane

    Mercedes-AMG addresses the basic challenge with regard to the throttle response of a small-capacity turbo engine by using a twin-scroll turbocharger, maximum de-throttling of the exhaust system and an innovative injection strategy. Twin-scroll technology provides a more spontaneous build-up of charge pressure: utilization of the exhaust back-pressure, exhaust-gas temperature and exhaust-gas pulse has a positive impact. This results in a faster build-up of torque even at low engine speeds. A positive side-effect: fuel consumption and exhaust emissions also benefit from twin-scroll technology. With a maximum charge pressure of 26psi, the AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine leads the field on this front, too.

    The AMG sports exhaust system in the GLA45 AMG features large pipe cross-sections and an automatically controlled viarable vane: this technology reconciles the two conflicting goals of a dynamic driving experience and hallmark Mercedes suitability for long-distance driving. The vane in the rear muffler is continuously adjusted under map control according to the driver's performance needs, load condition and engine speed. The two rectangular chrome-plated twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system emit a fascinating exhaust note, which is particularly impressive during powerful acceleration. An AMG Performance exhaust system, also equipped with an exhaust vane, is available as an optional extra. Customers opting for this system will experience an even more appealing and distinctive engine sound.

    Engine production – a tradition of hand-built excellence

    The AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine is assembled purely by hand in accordance with the traditional AMG philosophy of "one man, one engine".

    Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative production quality, the AMG engine badge bearing the engine fitter's signature also attests the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz's high-performance brand.

    AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission

    The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission in the GLA45 AMG features three distinct transmission modes, a double-declutching function dependent on the transmission mode and a RACE START function for optimum acceleration. The strengths of the dual-clutch transmission include spontaneous gear shifts without loss of tractive power, a tailor-made control strategy based on the AMG SPEEDSHIFT functions, extremely smooth gear shifts, and a high level of efficiency.

    The shift times in manual mode "M" and in sport mode "S" are similarly sporty in character to those of the SLS AMG GT super sports car. Quick and precise retardation of the ignition and suppressing injection under full load lead to even faster gear shifts in "M" and "S" modes, with a more exciting sound. The transmission control fully utilizes the benefits of direct injection technology right up to the physical limits: the quicker engine response ensures that injection is suppressed with even more precision. The effect: the shift speed and an emotional sound experience make for a fascinating ride. Another special feature designed to enhance dynamic performance and driving pleasure is the so-called "Momentary M mode" – as seen in the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series super sports car.

    In "C" mode (Controlled Efficiency), smooth transmission and engine characteristics support a fuel-efficient and comfort-oriented driving style. In addition, the ECO start/stop function is active in "C" mode.

    Performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC four wheel drive as standard

    The GLA45 AMG comes with variable AMG 4MATIC four wheel drive as standard. In developing this four wheel-drive system, the focus was firmly on performance and dynamic spirit. The all-wheel-drive system transfers the engine power to the road optimally and provides perfect traction – regardless of the weather conditions. It also elevates driving dynamics to the highest level.

    The entire drive system boasts a weight-saving and compact design: the power take-off unit (PTU) is fully integrated into the 7-speed sports transmission and handles the power transfer to the rear drivetrain. A two-part propeller shaft sends the power of the engine to the rear axle as well. In the interests of favorable weight distribution, an electro-hydraulically controlled multiple-disc clutch is integral with the rear-axle differential. A hydraulic pump instantaneously presses the discs together and channels the engine torque to the rear wheels as necessary. All this goes unnoticed by the driver. Power distribution is fully variable: during normal driving the GLA45 AMG uses frontwheel drive for optimal efficiency. Where needed, the variable four-wheel-drive system splits the torque between the front and rear axles at a ratio of up to 50:50 percent.

    Typically for AMG, the Electronic Stability Program is configured as a three-stage ESP®. The GLA45 AMG comes with three transmission modes: "ESP ON", "SPORT Handling Mode" and "ESP OFF" – enabling the driver to vary dynamic performance according to individual requirements at the push of a button.

    ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist is likewise included as standard. During dynamic cornering, imperceptible braking interventions on the rear inside wheel create a defined yaw moment about the vertical axis. The effect: the GLA45 AMG turns in precisely and controllably at all times while unwelcome understeer is prevented.

    AMG sports suspension and AMG high-performance braking system

    One of the keys to agile handling is axle technology: for enhanced driving dynamics, the McPherson front axle on the GLA45 AMG is fitted with stiffer steering knuckles and new elastokinematics. The four-link rear axle has also been newly developed. Stability and precision of handling are enhanced by the optimized elastokinematics and the rigid connection between the subframe and the body. The AMG sports suspension with specially tuned spring/damper units and bigger anti-roll bars ensures high lateral acceleration and reduced body roll when driving fast on winding roads. An AMG performance suspension with firmer spring and damper tuning is available as an optional extra.

    The AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with specific, speed-dependent power assist ensures high steering precision and agility. The AMG high-performance braking system with vented, perforated brake discs all-round and gray-painted brake calipers delivers spontaneous and reliable deceleration. Red brake calipers are available as an optional extra.

    Three attractive AMG alloy wheels to choose from

    In standard specification the GLA45 AMG runs on 5-twin-spoke AMG alloy wheels painted titanium gray with high-sheen finish, mounted with tires of size 235/45 R 19. As an optional extra from the AMG Performance Studio, customers can opt for larger 10-spoke AMG alloy wheels with tires of size 235/40 R 20 – these are available painted titanium gray with high-sheen finish or painted matte black with high-sheen rim flange.

    Powerful and distinctive: sensual clarity with AMG character

    The design of the GLA45 AMG exudes fascination on account of its powerful and distinctive character. As the powerful AMG top-of-the-line model of the GLA class, the high-performance SUV combines the hallmark sensual clarity of Mercedes-Benz as an expression of modern luxury with muscular elements exclusive to AMG. The AMG front fascia with front splitter and the AMG "twin blade" radiator grille provide athletic highlights – both are painted matte titanium gray. Completely new: the distinctive AMG lettering at the side between the louvers of the radiator grille. This will make all new AMG models easy to recognize in the future. Black flics (air deflector elements) above the large cooling air intakes at the sides pay homage to motor sport. Bi-xenon headlights come as standard.

    When viewed from the side, the distinctive AMG alloy wheels in three design options certainly catch the eye. The side sill panels with matte titanium gray inserts, the "TURBO AMG" lettering on the front fenders and the aluminum roof rails lend the GLA45 AMG a special touch. The rear end is dominated by the diffuser insert with titanium gray trim and the rectangular, chrome-plated trim of the twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system with exhaust flap.

    The following AMG equipment features can optionally upgrade the exterior design:

    • Aerodynamics package: larger front splitter, additional flics on the front fascia, rear spoiler, Night package
    • Carbon-fiber exterior mirror housings
    • Exterior Carbon-Fiber package: carbon-fiber front splitter, side sill panel insert and rear fascia trim, with twin blade of the radiator grille in silver chrome
    • Rear spoiler
    • Night package: black anodized waistline trim strip, silver chrome radiator grille louvers; high-gloss black front splitter, exterior mirrors, side sill panel insert and rear fascia trim, two tailpipes with black rectangular trim
    • Red painted brake calipers with black AMG lettering

    Interior design: high-quality, sporty, exclusive

    As in all AMG high-performance automobiles, the interior of the GLA45 AMG delights with its high-quality appeal combined with sporty flair and exclusive equipment features. These include sports seats upholstered with MB-Tex manmade leather/DINAMICA microfiber with red contrasting topstitching and red designo safety belts as well as the AMG DRIVE UNIT. The 3-spoke nappa leather multifunction sports steering wheel with red contrasting topstitching, perforated leather in the grip area and steering-wheel shift paddles ensures perfect vehicle control. The AMG instrument cluster with 2-tube design and central color display, AMG main menu and RACETIMER is on hand to keep the driver up to date. On opening the door, the driver is greeted by the AMG startup screen. The trim of the instrument panel is made from brushed aluminum and, in tandem with the brushed stainless-steel AMG front door sills, emphasizes the high-grade, exclusive ambiance inside the GLA45 AMG.

    The interior can be upgraded with the following AMG optional extras:

    • Performance steering wheel in black nappa leather/Alcantara®
    • Performance seats upholstered in leather or MB-Tex man-made leather/DINAMICA microfiber for driver and front passenger, with more strongly contoured seat shape for enhanced lateral support and with integral head restraints, red designo safety belts
    • Carbon-fiber trim
    • Leather upholstry in black, crystal gray, nut brown or black 'Red Cut' design

    Expressive and exclusive: the GLA45 AMG "Edition 1"

    The GLA45 AMG "Edition 1" is a special option. The expressive arrangement of exclusive exterior and interior details arouses pure fascination. The high-gloss black Aerodynamics package with larger front splitter, additional flics in the front fascia, and rear airfoil creates an uncompromising racetrack feel. The silver gray/red AMG racing stripes on the vehicle sides below the "dropping line" leave a lasting impression. These are complemented by red highlights on radiator grille, exterior mirrors, diffuser insert and rear airfoil. A perfect match to these are the red painted brake calipers and multi-spoke AMG alloy wheels painted matte black with red rim flanges. The alloy wheels feature special

    AMG wheel hub covers with central-lock look, and are mounted with tires of size 235/40 R 20 all-round. The AMG Night package is also part of the standard equipment, as is the "Edition 1" badge on the front fender. The metallic paints cosmos black, polar silver and mountain gray are available as an alternative to the cirrus white exterior paintwork.

    The interior of the GLA45 AMG "Edition 1" is dominated by the colors black and red. Red contrasting topstitching adorns the AMG Performance seats upholstered in MB-Tex man-made leather/DINAMICA microfiber, the door center panels, the upper section of the MB-Tex man-made leather/DINAMICA microfiber instrument panel and the nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber AMG Performance steering wheel. Other visual highlights are the E-SELECT lever with embossed AMG emblem and the "Edition 1" badge on the AMG DRIVE UNIT. The exclusive trim on the instrument panel perfectly matches the AMG racing stripes on the sides of the vehicle. The high-quality surface has a convincing look and feel: shiny and matte elements create an exciting interplay.

    The new Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG will celebrate its world premiere on January 13, 2014 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, USA. The vehicle will roll into dealerships in the fall of 2014.

    User Feedback

    Recommended Comments

    Interesting, looks way too small for me, but allot of people will like a MB performance CUV in the compact class that is a step up from Buick. Should do well initially.

    I wonder how overpriced it will be? Any pricing range announced yet?

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    Interesting, looks way too small for me, but allot of people will like a MB performance CUV in the compact class that is a step up from Buick. Should do well initially.

    I wonder how overpriced it will be? Any pricing range announced yet?

    No pricing yet, but I would expect it somewhere above the CLA45's pricetag of $47,450

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    True enough, but being an MB they have to have an AMG version... the regular GLA will be the volume model. It is odd to see the AMG badge on a 4 cyl model, though..not really serious enough to be AMG, IMO.

    Edited by Cubical-aka-Moltar
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    lotta power for a 2.0. overstressed?

    I agree, I wonder just how long this engine will really last before having to be replaced. Then most people will probably dump these before 100K sets in and the auto has all the usual buggy breaking down problems that MB's tend to have.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    lotta power for a 2.0. overstressed?

    Probably not (imho) Those Benz 4 bangers are pretty huge engines engineered for the power. Unless you meant 'soccer moms', they're always over-stressed!

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites



    Join the conversation

    You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
    Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

    Guest
    Add a comment...

    ×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

      Only 75 emoji are allowed.

    ×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

    ×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

    ×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.


  • google-news-icon.png



  • Community Hive Community Hive

    Community Hive allows you to follow your favorite communities all in one place.

    Follow on Community Hive
  • google-news-icon.png

  • Subscribe to Cheers & Gears

    Cheers and Gears Logo

    Since 2001 we've brought you real content and honest opinions, not AI-generated stuff with no feeling or opinions influenced by the manufacturers.

    Please consider subscribing. Subscriptions can be as little as $1.75 a month, and a paid subscription drops most ads.*
     

    You can view subscription options here.

    *a very limited number of ads contain special coupon deals for our members and will show

  • Similar Content

  • Posts

    • So three major problems with this car, one, terrible Jellybean external shape, not impressed at all with the style. Second is the buttonless dash having everything via a touch screen and rotary knob, terrible safety issue as your eyes will be off the road more than on trying to find the right option in the right menu. Third is the center pack clearly cuts into valuable leg space based on their own picture. This is a hard pass.
    • Great Masculine shape, really digging the style they did here.
    • First seen at the Shanghai Auto Show (see article: Polestar 4 - The New Breed of Electric SUV Coupe), Polestar brought the Polestar 4 to the New York International Auto Show for North Americans to see in person. Polestar calls the Polestar 4 an "electric SUV 4-door coupe". Outside of that marketing speak, the Polestar 4 is a slightly lifted four-door hatchback about 190 inches in length, or roughly 2 inches shorter than a Toyota Camry.  Built without rear glass, the Polestar 4 makes use of a rear camera for visibility astern. Polestar 4 features a plethora of standard content, including 20-inch 5 V-spoke black diamond cut alloy wheels, panoramic glass roof, adaptive cruise control, 360 parking camera with 3D view, energy saving heat pump, front-illuminated Polestar logo, e-latch doors, power-operated tailgate with soft close, Polestar digital key, wireless phone charging, and 8-way electrical driver seat and 6-way electrical passenger seat. The fastest production car the brand has ever developed to date, Polestar 4 can accomplish a 0-60 mph sprint in 3.7 seconds and in top spec can produce 544 horsepower. Long-range single-motor variants have 272 horsepower and a targeted EPA range of over 300 miles. All long range variants have a 102 kWh battery capable of 200 kW charging on a DC Fast Charger and 11 kW on home level-2 charging. Google built-in is ... built in and includes Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play. Polestar continues to offer a leading connected in-car experience. As with all other Polestar cars, regular over-the-air updates allow for new features and improvements to be sent remotely to all vehicles. Pricing starts at $54,900, with orders opening in April for deliveries in the latter half of this year.   View full article
  • Who's Online (See full list)

    • There are no registered users currently online
  • My Clubs

×
×
  • Create New...

Hey there, we noticed you're using an ad-blocker. We're a small site that is supported by ads or subscriptions. We rely on these to pay for server costs and vehicle reviews.  Please consider whitelisting us in your ad-blocker, or if you really like what you see, you can pick up one of our subscriptions for just $1.75 a month or $15 a year. It may not seem like a lot, but it goes a long way to help support real, honest content, that isn't generated by an AI bot.

See you out there.

Drew
Editor-in-Chief

Write what you are looking for and press enter or click the search icon to begin your search

Change privacy settings