With fuel consumption of 7.5 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined; CO2: 175 g/km) and compliance with EU 6 emissions standards, the GLA 45 AMG once again provides proof that at Mercedes-AMG maximum performance does not come at the expense of environmental compatibility.
The GLA 45 AMG also holds the pole position with regard to driving dynamics as it accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).
Thanks to the combination of standard-fit performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, the GLA 45 AMG impresses with its equally sporty and efficient drive system concept.
(pictures taken with Nokia Lumia)
The GLA 45 AMG is a true AMG when it comes to driving dynamics. Currently, there is no segment that’s growing faster than of compact SUVs. The unique product characteristics of the GLA 45 AMG will allow us to attract new target groups,” said Roland S. Folger, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
Young target group: styling, dynamics and independence
In addition to the A 45 AMG and CLA 45 AMG, the GLA 45 AMG is the third vehicle with four-cylinder turbo engine to appeal to a young target group.
The trend-oriented customers set great store by 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 GLA 45 AMG now expands the extensive SUV line-up to five models (GLA 45 AMG, ML 63 AMG, GL 63 AMG, G 63 AMG and G 65 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 engine of the GLA 45 AMG fully lives up to this claim, as a look at the figures shows. The AMG 2.0-litre turbo engine is the most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine in the world. It produces 265 kW (360 hp) of power and develops peak torque of 450 Newton metres. A power density of 133 kW (181 hp) puts the AMG high-performance turbo engine on a par with the world’s most powerful super sports cars.
Key data at a glance:
| Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG | |
| Displacement | 1991 cc |
| Bore x stroke | 83.0 x 92.0 mm |
| Output | 265 kW (360 hp) at 6000 rpm |
| Max. torque | 450 Nm at 2250-5000 rpm |
| Power density | 133 kW (181 hp) |
| Fuel consumption, NEDC combined | 7.5 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 175 g/km |
| Efficiency class | D |
| Emissions standard | EU 6 |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 4.8 s |
| Top speed | 250 km/h* |
* Electronically limited
Development of the high-performance turbo engine, which is part of the BlueDIRECT family, placed emphasis on a sustainable reduction in particulate emissions. The AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine features spray-guided direct petrol injection via piezo injectors with an injection pressure of 200 bar, positioned centrally in the four combustion chambers.
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 cold-start 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-litre four-cylinder turbo engine:
- Gravity-die sand-cast all-aluminium crankcase
- Weight-optimised crank mechanism with forged steel crankshaft
- Forged pistons with friction-optimised 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 exhaust flap
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 dethrottling of the exhaust system and an innovative injection strategy. Twin-scroll technology provides for a more spontaneous build-up of charge pressure: utilisation 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 already at low engine speeds. As a positive side-effect, fuel consumption and exhaust emissions also benefit from twin-scroll technology. With a maximum charge pressure of 1.8 bar, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine leads the field on this front, too.
The AMG sports exhaust system in the GLA 45 AMG features large pipe cross-sections and an automatically controlled exhaust flap: this technology reconciles the two conflicting goals of a dynamic driving experience and hallmark Mercedes suitability for long-distance driving. The flap in the rear silencer 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 on 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 flap, 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-litre 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 to 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 GLA 45 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 interruptions and suppressing injection under full load lead to even faster gear shifts in “M” and “S” modes, with a more thrilling sound. The transmission control fully utilises the benefits of the direct injection technology right up to the physical limits: the quicker engine response ensures that injection is suppressed with even more precision. As a result, the shift speed and an emotional sound experience hold a very special fascination. 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 all-wheel drive as standard
The GLA 45 AMG comes with variable AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive as standard. In developing this all-wheel-drive system, the focus was firmly on performance and dynamic spirit. The all-wheel-drive system provides for an ideal transfer of engine power to the road to provide perfect traction – regardless of the weather conditions. It also elevates driving dynamics to the highest level.
The entire drive unit boasts a weight-saving and compact design: the power take-off unit (PTU) is fully integrated into the 7-speed sports transmission and takes care of power transfer to the rear drivetrain. A two-part propeller shaft sends the engine power to the rear axle as well. In the interests of favourable weight distribution, an electro-hydraulically controlled multiple-disc clutch is integrated with the rear axle differential. The multiple-disc clutch control detects slip at the front axle. A hydraulic pump instantaneously presses the discs together and channels the engine torque to the rear wheels as necessary. All this takes place without the driver noticing. Power distribution is fully variable: during normal driving the GLA 45 AMG uses front-wheel drive for optimal efficiency. When required by the driving situation, the variable all-wheel drive system splits the torque between the front and rear axles up to a ratio of 50:50 percent.
Typically for AMG, the Electronic Stability Program is configured as a three-stage ESP®. The three modes “ESP ON”, “SPORT Handling Mode” and “ESP OFF” enable 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 intervention on the rear inside wheel creates a defined yaw moment about the vertical axis. As a result, the GLA 45 AMG steers precisely and under control at all times, the problem of understeer is banished.
AMG sports suspension and AMG high-performance braking system
One of the keys to agile handling is the axle technology: for enhanced driving dynamics, the McPherson front axle on the GLA 45 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 optimised 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 provides for high lateral acceleration and reduced body roll in fast double bends. The hallmark Mercedes comfort on long journeys is ensured all the same. An AMG performance suspension with firmer spring and damper tuning is available as an optional extra.
The AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with AMG-specific, speed-dependent power assist ensures high steering precision and agility. The AMG high-performance braking system with ventilated, cross-drilled brake discs all-round and grey-painted brake callipers provides for spontaneous and reliable deceleration. Red brake callipers are available as an optional extra.
Three attractive AMG light-alloy wheels to choose from
In the standard specification the GLA 45 AMG runs on 5-twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted titanium grey with high-sheen finish, mounted with tyres of size 235/45 R 19. As an optional extra from the AMG Performance Studio, customers can opt for larger 10-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels with tyres of size 235/40 R 20 – these are painted either titanium grey with high-sheen finish or matt black with high-sheen rim flange.
Design: sensual purity plus elements exclusive to AMG
The design of the GLA 45 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 purity of Mercedes-Benz as an expression of modern luxury with muscular, dynamic AMG design elements. The AMG front apron with front splitter and the AMG “twin blade” radiator grille provide athletic highlights – both are painted in matt titanium grey. Completely new is the distinctive AMG lettering at the side between the louvres of the radiator grille. This will make all new AMG models easy to recognise in future. Black flics (air deflector elements) above the large exterior cooling air intakes allude to motor sport. Bi-xenon headlamps come as standard.
When viewed from the side, the distinctive AMG light-alloy wheels in three design variants catch the eye. The side sill panels with titanium grey inserts, the “TURBO AMG” lettering on the front wings and the aluminium roof rails lend the GLA 45 AMG a special look. The rear end is dominated by the diffuser insert with titanium grey trim and by the rectangular, chrome-plated tailpipe trim of the twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system with exhaust flap.
Expressive and exclusive: the GLA 45 AMG “Edition 1”
The GLA 45 AMG “Edition 1” is available as standard for all customers in Malaysia. 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 apron, and rear aerofoil creates an uncompromising racetrack feel. The decorative Edition 1 foil on the vehicle sides leaves a lasting impression. It is complemented by red highlights on radiator grille, exterior mirrors and diffuser insert. The red painted brake callipers and 10-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted matt black with red rim flanges are a perfect match. The light-alloy wheels feature special AMG wheel hub covers with central-lock look, and are mounted with tyres of size 235/40 R 20 all-round. The AMG Night package is also part of the standard equipment. The metallic paints cosmos black, polar silver, mountain grey and designo mountain grey magno are available as an alternative to the cirrus white exterior paintwork.
The interior of the GLA 45 AMG “Edition 1” is dominated by the colours black and red. Red contrasting topstitching adorns the AMG Performance seats in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre, the armrests, the upper section of the ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre instrument panel and the nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre 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. A match for the decorative foil on the vehicle sides is the exclusive AMG trim of the instrument panel in Edition 1 design. The high-quality surface has a convincing look and feel: shiny, matt elements create an exciting interplay with the diamond pattern and AMG lettering on the right side.
With twelve loudspeakers, including a bass speaker, and a 9-channel DSP amplifier the 450 W Harman Kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system combines with audio systems is available in the GLA 45 AMG, to offer a perfect audio experience in stereo, in DTS and Dolby Digital 5.1 format. The Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG Edition 1 is priced at RM 378,888 (OTR without insurance)
