(July 7, 2019) Outstanding performance, the ultimate in driving dynamics, and expressive design — the new Mercedes-AMG compact sports car, the CLA 45, reasserts its leading position in the segment. It seamlessly continues the success story of Mercedes-AMG's sporty compact cars, while setting new standards.

The 2020 CLA 45 is powered by the newly developed M139 2.0-liter engine, the world's most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder manufactured for series production. With 382 hp in the CLA 45, it boasts more power than its predecessor.

Fast gearshifts measured in milliseconds and ideal power delivery are guaranteed by the new AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT-8G dual-clutch transmission with eight gears. Active, fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive distributes the power to the rear axle on a wheel — selective basis using AMG TORQUE CONTROL — for top traction and the drift mode. This is made possible by a new rear axle differential featuring two multidisc clutches — one for each rear wheel.

With an output of 382 hp, the completely newly developed 2.0-liter engine is the world's most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder manufactured for series production. Maximum torque has also increased to 354 lb-ft. The new highly efficient powerpack is produced on an innovative production line in Affalterbach, using the "One Man, One Engine" principle.



In the CLA 45, the sprint from zero to 60 mph passes in record time: (in an estimated 4.0 seconds). The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. With the optional AMG Driver's Package, the top speed can also be increased to 168 mph.

Apart from its performance figures, the new engine impresses with its immediate response. To this end, the torque curve was carefully balanced ("torque shaping"): The maximum torque of 354 lb-ft is available within a range of 4750 - 5000 rpm. With this configuration, the AMG engineers have achieved a power delivery akin to a naturally aspirated engine.

The engine developers were able to realize a dynamically increasing torque curve in the lower engine speed range, thereby improving throttle response. The increasing torque at higher rpm makes the engine more free-revving. Moreover, the high maximum engine speed (up to 7200 rpm) emphasizes the engine's sporty character.

"We have completely redesigned our "45" models — from the engine and transmission through the chassis, the elaborately constructed drivetrain to the body structure and of course the design itself – all with one goal: to raise vehicle dynamics and the sporty driving experience to a level previously unimaginable in the compact class. With the presentation of this, our most powerful and most dynamic compact sports car, we are also reinforcing the significance of this segment for our growth strategy," said Tobias Moers, chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The new Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is even more distinctive than its predecessors. The exterior conveys sheer driving pleasure, even at standstill. For the first time, the compact class AMG models now also feature the AMG-specific radiator grille with a wide lower contour and twelve vertical louvers – as a clear indicator of AMG Performance family membership.

At the same time, the pronounced "shark nose," the slim, deeply contoured headlamps and the flat, aerodynamically-enhanced hood with power domes visually lowers the front section to create the impression of dynamic forward thrust. The wider front fenders with flared wheel arches also accentuate the imposing presence. These create space for the wider front axle, and underline the athletic appearance.

Viewed from the side, the wider AMG side skirts visually lower the CLA 45 so that it appears to hug the road more closely. If the silver chrome accents are specified, the inserts are in silver chrome, and with the AMG Night package, they are in high-gloss black. The exterior mirrors are mounted high on the sculpted portion of the doors, echoing the look of Mercedes-AMG coupes and sports cars. This not only looks very sporty, but also improves the aerodynamics.



As standard, the CLA 45 features 8.0 J x 19-inch light alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design, aerodynamically optimized and painted in tantalum grey with size 235/55 R 19 tires. The AMG high-performance braking system features grey-painted brake calipers with white AMG lettering.

Two round twin tailpipes (3.2 in diameter) and a wide rear bumper characterize the rear view. The slim two-piece rear taillights emphasize this impression of width at the rear. The diffuser with four vertical fins contributes to better aero- performance - it is extended forward at the center of the vehicle, making it work more effectively. The lip spoiler in vehicle color on the trunk lid enhances the effect.

AMG developers extensively reinforced the bodyshell, as it provides the basis for the precise steering characteristics, as well as track and camber stability, also when driving at high speed. A lightweight aluminum plate bolted underneath the engine — the "shearing plate" — increases the torsional rigidity at the vehicle's front end. This is supplemented by a strut tower brace between the front suspension struts and pistol-shaped "shotguns" these are additional reinforcing plates connecting the side members to the A-pillars to minimize movement in the front section.

Diagonal struts at the front and rear of the underbody further improve rigidity. As a result, the entire suspension system responds precisely even at the physical limits, giving the driver clearly defined feedback – with considerably reduced body torsion around the longitudinal and transverse axis, and less rolling and pitching on bends, when braking and during load cycles.

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 will go on sale in the U.S. by the end of the year.