The GLA-Class is a car that couldn't really keep its secrets to itself. Even before the day when it was shown as a concept at a major Chinese motor show, we knew what it was called, what it was powered by and what sort of platform underpinned it.
What we didn't know was if there was going to be an AMG version. The boss of Mercedes AMG said in an interview that if the business case for this compact AMG small crossover SUV existed, he would be more than happy to make one. But even before the basic version of the car went into production, the company bosses approved the project. Why?
It's simple. Despite there being millions of small SUVs sold every year, there just aren't any credible performance models out there. BMW stopped short of making the X1 M, while Audi did present the RS Q3, but made it provided it with a watered down 2.5 turbo with only 310 horsepower.
This GLA 45 AMG, recently spied testing at the Nurburgring, has more power than any Q3 or X1. It's going to be sold with the highest specific output 2-liter engine, the M133 engine that boasts 360 PS and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque. The first four-cylinder turbo engine made by AMG will be paired to a specially engineered all-wheel drive system and a AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT seven-speed dual-clutch.
However, with large diameter alloy wheels, lowered suspension and a sporty body kit, you won't be doing much offroading with the GLA 45 AMG. So then, why would you pay over €50,000 for a car that isn't good on gravel? It's a fashion statement for those who can afford it, a concept car you can buy and drive on the road.
It's simple. Despite there being millions of small SUVs sold every year, there just aren't any credible performance models out there. BMW stopped short of making the X1 M, while Audi did present the RS Q3, but made it provided it with a watered down 2.5 turbo with only 310 horsepower.
This GLA 45 AMG, recently spied testing at the Nurburgring, has more power than any Q3 or X1. It's going to be sold with the highest specific output 2-liter engine, the M133 engine that boasts 360 PS and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque. The first four-cylinder turbo engine made by AMG will be paired to a specially engineered all-wheel drive system and a AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT seven-speed dual-clutch.
However, with large diameter alloy wheels, lowered suspension and a sporty body kit, you won't be doing much offroading with the GLA 45 AMG. So then, why would you pay over €50,000 for a car that isn't good on gravel? It's a fashion statement for those who can afford it, a concept car you can buy and drive on the road.