The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG sports the world’s most powerful production 4-cylinder engine. The coupe-like styling on the CLA 45 AMG is attributed to the CLS but now far more accessible to the masses by being smaller. Though the design by no means is a complete copy, the front shares its looks with the revised E-Class and the S-Class. The rear creates an identity of its own being wider and squared-off. The CLA 45 AMG gets a revised grille with newer intakes compared to the standard CLA giving it an aggressive stance.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG is powered by a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged mill which produces 355 HP of power and 436 Nm of torque between 2500-5000 RPM. This is mated to a 7-speed Speedshift Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) with special AMG gearing and performance characteristics. Though it has All Wheel Drive (AWD) setup, for most part it operates in front wheel drive mode with sensors measuring the speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, steering angle and other parameters which in turn sends optimal torque and traction to the appropriate axles and wheels. The CLA 45 AMG does the 0-100 km/hr dash in 4.5 seconds.
The regular CLA 250 version uses a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing peak output of 208 HP and 350 Nm of torque. This engine is also mated to the 7-speed DCT and sprints to 100 km/hr from standstill comfortably in under 7 seconds. Materials used are pretty decent given the fact that the CLA will be priced competitively in the entry-level segment.
The CLA will be a wildcard product for Mercedes-Benz in India considering the futuristic design, the efficient power mill and the affordability factor in addition to the positive notion among Indian customers about Mercedes-Benz being perceived as a desirable luxury brand. The car will be launched in the Indian market sometime next year and will be positioned below the C-Class with an expected price tag of Rs 30 lakhs (ex-showroom).
