Mercedes AMG A45 S
In the world of high-performance hatchbacks, there’s fast, and then there’s Mercedes-AMG A45 S fast. This isn’t just a souped-up commuter; it’s a meticulously engineered weapon, boasting the most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine in the world. But beyond the mind-bending horsepower and rapid-fire gear changes, what’s it really like to live with this asphalt-shredding machine?
Join me as we dive deep into the world of the A45 S. We’ll explore everything from its aggressive styling and luxurious-yet-sporty interior to its blistering acceleration and surprisingly agile handling. Is it the ultimate hot hatch, a track-day hero disguised as a daily driver, or something else entirely? Let’s find out!
AMG A45 S Performance
The Mercedes-AMG A45 S isn’t just a car; it’s a testament to what’s possible when engineers are given free rein to push boundaries. At its heart lies the M139 engine, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder that holds the title of the world’s most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine. This compact powerhouse unleashes a staggering 421 horsepower (310 kW) and 500 Nm of torque.
All that power translates into truly sensational acceleration. The A45 S launches from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in a mere 3.9 seconds. This is a figure that puts many sports cars with significantly larger engines to shame, showcasing the efficiency and raw grunt of AMG’s engineering. Mating to this formidable engine is an 8-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT dual-clutch transmission. This gearbox delivers lightning-fast shifts, ensuring that every ounce of power is transferred to the tarmac with minimal interruption. The rapid gear changes are a key contributor to its incredible acceleration, whether you’re launching from a standstill with “RACE START” or blasting through gears on the open road.
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ All-Wheel Drive with AMG TORQUE CONTROL:
Performance isn’t just about straight-line speed. The A45 S features the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system with AMG TORQUE CONTROL. This sophisticated system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles, and crucially, between the individual rear wheels thanks to two electronically controlled multi-plate clutches on the rear axle. This means exceptional traction, stability, and the ability to deploy power effectively even in challenging conditions. It also enables the much-talked-about “Drift Mode” for those who want to explore the car’s dynamic limits on a closed course.
Top Speed:
With the AMG Driver’s Package, the A45 S has an electronically limited top speed of 270 km/h (168 mph), a testament to its sustained power delivery even at high velocities.
Beyond the Numbers:
But the performance of the A45 S isn’t just about the numbers. It’s about the visceral experience. The M139 engine, despite being a four-cylinder, produces a surprisingly aggressive and characterful sound, especially when enhanced by the AMG Real Performance Sound system. The precise steering, the taut AMG suspension (often with optional adaptive damping for a wider range of settings from comfortable to track-focused), and the powerful braking system with perforated discs and multi-piston calipers all contribute to a feeling of incredible control and responsiveness.
On a track like the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the A45 S has demonstrated its capabilities with impressive lap times, reinforcing its position as a serious performance contender in the hot hatch segment. While it might be a compact hatchback, its performance credentials are anything but small.
Our Thoughts On The AMG A45 S
The Mercedes-AMG A45 S commands admiration not just for its astounding performance, but for the sheer audacity of its design and engineering. There’s an undeniable charm in a compact hatchback that can outpace many more expensive, larger sports cars, creating a sense of pride and a delightful underdog narrative for its owners. This appreciation is deeply rooted in the M139 engine, a testament to what is achievable with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, delivering a mind-boggling 421 horsepower. This technical mastery, combined with its surprising daily usability, allows the A45 S to seamlessly transition from a practical family car to a ferocious track machine, offering a versatility that truly sets it apart.
Beyond the raw figures, the A45 S delivers an incredibly rich sensory experience that fosters a profound emotional connection. The aggressive, crackling exhaust note, the precise and direct steering, and the immediate throttle response all contribute to an immersive driving experience. Its visually striking and aggressive styling, coupled with the prestige of the Mercedes-AMG badge, further enhances its appeal, making it feel exclusive and special. Ultimately, the adoration for the A45 S stems from its ability to blend outrageous performance with surprising practicality and a truly exhilarating driving feel, consistently impressing and exciting those who get to experience it.
