The Mercedes-AMG A45 S 4MATIC and Mercedes-AMG A35 4MATIC get refreshed for 2023.
Back in the old days, the Mercedes brand was closely associated with old money, luxury and comfort. There were a few high-performance models but these were mostly for larger cars. Today, Mercedes are serving the hottest hot hatch in the segment and have the most powerful 4-cylinder in production available in the A45.
That model, and the lighter weight A35 are both being updated along with the rest of the standard A-Class family for the 2023 model year. As before, the A35 is available as a 5-door hatchback or a 4-door sedan while the A45 comes only as a 5-door hatchback.
For 2023, both models are receiving redesigned headlamps and a new AMG-specific radiator grille. Following in the footsteps of the new C 63, an AMG laurel will be mounted instead of the badge with the three-pointed star with a laurel wreath. Other changes to the exterior include a new front apron, a new wheel design, a new rear spoiler lip, and new light graphics. The A35 hood now gets the same power bulges as seen on the A45.
Inside, the new AMG A-Class models get the AMG Performance steering wheel with integrated controls for the three-stage stability programme. The AMG performance seat is now available in sage grey. Mild changes to the centre console are also incorporated.
MBUX has also been updated to the latest version which has new features and better performance. There is also a fingerprint sensor to identify who’s driving and more USB charging power, a new AMG screen graphic and more.
Under the hood, the A35 engine has been updated with a 48V system, making it a mild hybrid. This system is also seen on the updated base A-Class models. It also boosts power by 10kW but is there mostly for emissions and fuel efficiency reasons. The Mercedes-AMG A35 4MATIC now has 306 hp and 400Nm of torque paired to an 8-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT dual clutch transmission.
For the A45 S 4MATIC+, Mercedes-AMG are trying something new with an ‘AMG Street Style Edition’. This version of the vehicle will be in production for a limited time. It comes in mountain grey magno with an interesting graphic that works well with the Aerodynamics Package.
19″ matt black rims and red brake callipers are included. Inside, this version gets black Microcut microfibre with seams and other accents in bright orange. The same graphic element makes its way to some of the interior trim components. The AMG 45 S 4MATIC+ has an output of 421hp.
