THE Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 is a compact crossover sports utility vehicle that shares the same platform as the A-class and B-class.
It is part of the GLA series, making it the smallest SUV in Mercedes Benz’ family of vehicles.
AMG specialises in the development and customisation of the high-performance machines from Mercedes-Benz. Its models have a more aggressive and sporty look, better handling, higher level of performance, better stability and more extensive usage of carbon fibre materials compared with the average Mercedes-Benz.
For AMG, each engine is a piece of craftsmanship. That is why Mercedes AMG engines receive special care and attention, and are guided by a “one engine, one man” philosophy. Each engine is hand-built by a single AMG specialist and even has the signature of the engineer on the engine badge.
We tested the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 over the weekend.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Sdn Bhd launched the car at the end of May, last year.
Powering the face lifted Mercedes AMG GLA 45 is a hand-built (by Kai Fischel), 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine mated to an AMG Speedshift DCT seven-speed sports transmission. It generates 381hp at 6,000 rpm and 475 Nm of torque from 2,250 to 5,000 rpm.
Mercedes-Benz claims that the all wheel drive AMG 45 4Matic is able to do the century sprint in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 250kph.
Measuring at 4,417 mm in length, 1,524 mm in height, 1,803 mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,700 mm and weighing in at 1,495 kg, the SUV has a 56 litre fuel tank capacity and 480 litres of boot space.
The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 is equipped with loads of AMG goodies, such as the performance exhaust system, ride control suspension, aerodynamic package, 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, floor mats, night package, race transmission mode, performance nappa steering wheel, door sill panels and also the performance front seats, which features the leather upholstery finished in black and red stitching. It also comes with red coloured seat belts and black roof liner.
It is also fitted with LED high performance headlamp with daytime running lights, COMAND Online infotainment system, Harman Logic 7 surround sound system, tirefit system, easy-pack tailgate, keyless-go system, thermotronic automatic climate control, panoramic sunroof, Artico leather dashboard top, eight-inch free standing display and a reverse camera.
In terms of safety aspects, expect nothing less than six-airbags, anti-lock braking system, driveline traction control, tyre pressure monitor, electronic stability control, ISOFIX child seat mounting points and the active brake assist, that warns the driver if there is not sufficient distance to the vehicle in front and if required, it delivers situation-appropriate braking.
The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4Matic is priced at RM408,888, excluding insurance but inclusive of six per cent GST. It is covered by the MercedesBenz 4-year unlimited mileage warranty.
THE DRIVE
The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 is a hard core performance compact SUV, perfect for those who want a compact size SUV that is able to perform like a sports car.
From the outside, it looks sporty and aggressive looks and commands attention even when the AMG GLA 45 was parked in between a couple of other Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
The interior is neatly finished with black leather, accompanied with red contrasting trims, alongside with some carbon fibre trims on the dashboard. The clever air-conditioning vent design makes sure the air is able to reach every occupant in the car with ease.
Once seated, the powered adjusted Recaro leather sports seats with the 14-way adjustment option, will adjust the most comfortable position the sport seats. The seats securely wraps and supports the body making sure both its front driver and passenger sits securely during high speed driving.
Turn the drive mode dial to Sport, Sport+ or even to the Race mode, the exhaust roars louder and the suspension firms up, then the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine’s torque build up so fast, it is as if the engine is on steroids and will never run out of breath.
The dual-clutch transmission switches gear smoothly and quickly. The acceleration reacts instantaneously the moment the turbocharger kicks in and the feeling of dashing from zero to 100kph in 4.4 is like a plane taking off, with all the G-force pushing the body into the seats. At some point, we even felt that this AMG GLA 45 is too powerful for our highways in Malaysia.
With the 4Matic all-wheel drive system, the power distributes between the front and rear axles when its needed. It provides tremendous of grip, even during heavy rain. It handles most corners with confidence. The dampers soak up most rough and damaged road conditions well. Surprisingly, the medium hard setting system conquered wavy road tracks with ease.
The well weighted steering delivers precise handling. It responds well to steering input and provides solid road feedback.
On a cruise down the highway in Comfort driving mode, the GLA 45’s cabin is quiet, especially at revs below 2,500 rpm. Step on the throttle and get the revs over 4,000 rpm, the enjoyable sound of the exhaust fills the cabin. At high speed drives, we only could hear slight wind sound penetrating into the cabin.
Space is reasonable in the AMG GLA 45. The 480-litres of boot space can swallow up a large size tandem stroller and still have space for a small size luggage. In terms of head, leg and shoulder room, there is sufficient legroom, headroom and shoulder room to transport five adults. However, we felt that the front is a little short of headroom for tall occupants.
We drove the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 for over 1150km. On an average driving with a combination of city and highway driving, the car measured 9.9 to 10.5 litres per 100km (l/100km). On a cruise on the highway below 2,500 rpm, we managed to clock 6.5 to 7.4 l/100km.
After some full throttle, aggressive driving, it recorded 12.5 to 16.4 litres per 100km. Driving the AMG GLA 45 is pure fun and pleasure.
But although the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4Matic is a fantastic vehicle, it still has room for improvement. It would be great if the AMG GLA 45 is equipped with head-up display, lane departure warning, as well as a blind spot warning system, to further enhance the safety features of the car.
It might also be a good idea if the AMG GLA 45 could come with keyless entry.