2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA45 Photos, engines & full specs

The compact-class program for Mercedes-Benz is now complete with the 2020 GLA 45 4Matic+ and 45S 4Matic+ versions. The AMG DNA can be seen clearly on the black engine grille with vertical slats and other special design details such as powerdomes on the hood and the rear spoiler. 21” light-alloy wheels are also installed, fitted as standard on the 45 and 45S.

AMG reinforced the body shell, as this provides the basis for the precise self-steering characteristics, as well as track and camber stability, even when driving at high speed. A lightweight aluminum plate bolted underneath the engine, known as the "shearing plate", increases the torsional rigidity at the vehicle's front end.

Power comes from a 2.0-liter engine, which offers 387 hp for AMG 45 and 421 hp for the AMG 45S. This is the most powerful 2.0-liter engine ever put on a production vehicle, with 40 more horses over the previous generation. Torque was also increased from 475 Nm (350 lb.-ft) to 500 Nm (368 lb.-ft).

Transmission is via an AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch, to all four wheels. The rear differential is an electromechanical type and can redirect the torque to the left or right wheel, depending on the traction.

These upgrades give the GLA 45 a 0-100 kph (0-62 mph) sprint in 4.4 seconds and 0.1 seconds faster for the GLA 45S. The top speed for the S version is 270 kph, while the non-S version is limited to 250 kph.