Mercedes-Benz is expanding its performance lineup with another youth-oriented compact. And, from the sounds of it, this will be the best out-and-out performer in the entire luxury compact crossover market.
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG cute-ute packs a wallop of a punch under the hood, with a twin-turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 355 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque — the most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine in the world.
The super-CUV speeds from zero to 100 km/h in a scant 4.8 seconds and is capable of reaching an electronically-limited top speed of 249 km/h, Mercedes says.
The GLA 45 AMG will come mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with Manual, Sport and Comfort modes, and AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive will come standard.
Like its CLA 45 AMG cousin, the GLA 45 is clearly making a play for young, affluent drivers. With a stiffer suspension, performance to spare, and an aggressive, sporty appearance, the GLA 45 definitely looks like something a young urban professional would gravitate toward.
Pricing hasn’t yet been announced for the car, but it’s expected to hit showrooms in September. Look for more details after its official debut at the Detroit auto show next week.
