Mercedes-Benz has now finally released the official images of the GLA45 AMG. We have previously seen the Concept GLA45 AMG Concept, and fortunately the production model is not that far off. Powered by the same 2,0-litre, turbocharged petrol engine that can be found in the A45 AMG super hatch, and using Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, the performance is almost on par with that of the A45.
If you think there is no space in the market place for a car such as this, think again. With the upcoming Porsche Macan Turbo and Audi RS Q3, Mercedes-AMG certainly wants to have a piece of the pie.
This was confirmed by Tobias Moers, chairman at Mercedes-AMG: “The response to the Concept GLA45 AMG during the world première at the Los Angeles International Auto Show has reaffirmed our decision to launch this new AMG model. Currently there is no segment growing faster than that of compact SUVs. For Mercedes-AMG it is therefore a logical step to make a dynamic statement in this segment with the GLA 45 AMG.”
Specification:
Model: Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG
Engine: 2,0-litre, four-cylinder turbopetrol
Power: 265 kW at 6 000 r/min
Torque: 450 N.m from 2 250 to 5 000 r/min
0-100 km/h: 4,8 seconds
Fuel consumption: 7,5 L/100 km
CO2: 175 g/km
Top speed: 250 km/h (ltd)
This means the GLA45 is only 0,2 seconds slower to 100 km/h than the claimed figure for the A45 AMG.
As is the case with the A45 AMG, several optional packages will become available. These include and aerodynamics package, exterior carbon fibre package and a night package. Buyers can also go all out and select the Edition 1package that will also give the car a similar treatment to the A45 AMG Edition 1.
Expect the GLA45 AMG to arrive in South Africa during the third quarter of 2014.
We will also witness the launch of the most luxurious version of the W222 S-Class to date. What is rumoured to be called the S600 Maybach, will be 5,5 metres long and offer top-level luxury, especially for the two rear seat passengers. It is unlikely that a third seat in the rear will be offered at all. Power will be supplied by Mercedes-Benz’s 5,5-litre V12 engine developing around 430 kW.
The return of the Maybach nameplate, after Daimler ceased production at the end of 2012 of its über luxurious sedan, signals Mercedes-Benz’s intention to take even more market share from brands such as Bentley and Rolls-Royce.
Follow the respective links to read our driving impressions of the S350 BlueTec, S400 Hybrid and S63 AMG.
Spy pic courtesy of WorldCarFans.
