SPY: The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet (A 205) - premiere scoops

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Mercedes-Benz plans to add an all new member to the future C-Class family. After the 204 model series got its 2-door Coupe on the facelift occassion, an open-top choice will join the current three-model portfolio next year when the 205 generation is set to come into force.

The first version to premiere is the new C-Class Limousine, expected to be officially presented in early 2014. Through spring, the wagon T-Modell under the S 205 codename is bound to arrive, while the new Coupe (C 205) is slated to showcase during the second semester of next year. Towards late 2014, right in time for the hot season of 2015, the all new C-Class Cabrio (A 205) will celebrate its world premiere.

The first-ever convertible C-Class in history has been lately spotted by spy photographers in the yard of the Mercedes-Benz R&D Center in Stuttgart. The car will emphasize Merc's brand new styling philosophy. A progressive exterior design will ensure the desired sportiness, dynamism and appeal levels are met, while also staying stlightly different compared to the standard W 205/S 205. As it is early to draw some conclusions over the looks given the heavy cladding on the pictured test prototype, we shall reserve those for later.

The length of the new C-Class Cabriolet will reach 4.7 meters, so this means plenty of space for some well-handled, balanced and sleek proportions. It is unclear whether the A 205 model will use a classic retractable cloth roof or go instead for a roadster-like hardtop just such as the SLK and SL do. From what we can see in these spy shots, there is enough room in the back to house a folding tin roof thanks to the visibly generous third volume. So, odds are in favour of this modern solution.

Similar to its open-top relatives, the C-Class Cabriolet will also use the innovative AIRSCARF neck-heating system, the AIRCAP draught-stop solution and the MAGIC VISION CONTROL wiper washer technology to further enhance the driving pleasure and passenger comfort while the roof is down even in winter.

The engines and entire technological package will be shared with its brothers from the 205 family. The entry-level choice starts at 156 hp, while the range-topping C 400 Cabriolet boasts 333 hp and the new 3.0-litre V6 BlueDIRECT engine featuring state-of-the-art turbocharging, direct injection and ECO start/stop function. Clean BlueTEC variants are also expected to make up most of the diesel range for the new A 205. During 2015, the ground-breaking C 55 AMG Cabrio will complete the lineup sporting an entirely newly-developed 4.0-litre V8 with biturbocharging cranking out near 470 hp.

Image Credits: Autoevolution

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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Sahara Force India and Mercedes-Benz announce long-term powertrain supply agreement

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Sahara Force India and Mercedes-Benz are delighted to announce the signature of a long-term agreement for the Silverstone-based team to use a full Mercedes-Benz powertrain from the 2014 season onwards.

The agreement will see Mercedes-Benz supply Sahara Force India with a complete Power Unit (Internal Combustion Engine plus Energy Recovery System), transmission and all associated ancillary systems under the new regulations for 2014.

Mercedes-Benz entered the era of customer engine supply in 2009 with the Silverstone-based team and this close working relationship is now in its fifth season. These historic links and the growing competitiveness of Sahara Force India helped pave the way for an expansion of the existing partnership to also include the supply of the gearbox and hydraulic systems.

Dr Vijay Mallya, Team Principal and Managing Director of Sahara Force India:
"Our new agreement with Mercedes-Benz for the coming years is the most significant in the history of Sahara Force India. With new powertrain regulations being introduced next year, I can´t think of a better partner to work with as Formula One enters a new and exciting era. The agreement gives us the long-term stability we require and will enable us to continue our journey towards the front of the Formula One grid."

Toto Wolff, Executive Director of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS:
"It is a significant milestone to announce our first long-term agreement for powertrain supply under the 2014 regulations. Sahara Force India was our first genuine customer in Formula One back in 2009 and we are delighted to enter an expanded, long-term relationship with them from 2014 onwards. This long-term agreement offers excellent value in terms of the balance between price and performance. We hope it will mean Mercedes-Benz and Sahara Force India working together for the entire life cycle of the new powertrain generation."

2014 V6 Engine Q & A

What can you tell us about the 2014 engine?

First of all, let’s mention the rules rather than the engine. For 2014, the rules specify a maximum race fuel allowance of 100 kg – compared to a typical race fuel load of around 150 kg today, although that’s not fixed by the rules.

That means we have one third less fuel to complete the same race distance with – and we want to do it at the same speed. So we need a powertrain that’s 30% more energy efficient.

And that’s where the new engine comes in?

Well, it’s not really just an engine any more. Without getting too technical, Article 1.22 of the Technical Regulations now refers to what’s called a ‘Power Unit’. This comprises an ICE (Internal Combustion Engine), an ERS (Energy Recovery System) and all the ancillaries needed to make them work.

But why a Power Unit? Well, today’s V8 essentially features a “bolt-on” KERS Hybrid system that was added during the engine’s life. The 2014 Power Unit has been designed with integrated hybrid systems from the very beginning.

Interesting. F1 loves jargon, so ICE and ERS sound just perfect. What do they mean?

The ICE is the traditional engine in the Power Unit package. 1.6 litre capacity, turbocharged, and with direct fuel injection at a pressure of up to 100 bar. Where the current engines rev to 18,000 rpm, the ICE is limited to 15,000 rpm from 2014.

As for ERS, it’s like KERS on steroids: not only can we still harvest energy from and deploy energy to the rear axle, we can now do the same from the turbocharger; the kinetic machine is called MGUK (Motor Generator Unit Kinetic) and the machine on the turbo an MGUH (‘h’ for heat).

In total, we are allowed to harvest and deploy energy at twice the power to the rear axle – so 161 hp compared to 80.5 hp today. And we are allowed to deploy ten times as much energy – 4MJ compared to 400 kJ. Simply put, that means a bigger power boost for a higher percentage of the lap.

And that’s what helps improve the efficiency?

Exactly. Part of the efficiency gain comes from the ICE, which runs at lower speeds with fewer moving parts than the V8 and the benefit of turbocharging; but the other part is to be found in the ERS.

Today, the fuel energy we combust in the engine then has one possible energy journey to improve system efficiency, via the KERS system.

In 2014, there will be up to seven possible energy journeys to keep energy within the vehicle rather than wasting it through the exhausts and brakes.

Sound pretty impressive. Will it be exciting for the fans?

We believe so. The target is to achieve the same power output of around 750 hp but to do so using around 30% less fuel.

In terms of sound, the engine note is not as loud as the current V8 because of two factors: the lower engine speed and the fact that the turbocharger sits in the exhaust flow, recovering energy from it that would otherwise be lost as heat and sound.

But because of the mechanical balance of a V6 engine, it also sounds sweeter. And we’re confident that fans will find it pretty exciting when they hear it at the track.

What impact will it have on the racing?

First of all, the engine is going to produce a lot more torque than the current V8 and over a wider power band.

That means the car is going to be grip limited on corner exit, in technical terms; in layman’s terms, they’re going to be a handful for the drivers.

The next point is that it will reward the most intelligent drivers - the fastest way to finish a race will not always be straightforward and the cleverest drivers will probably adapt fastest to the new challenges.

So will we see F1 turned into an economy run – or cars running out of fuel in the latter stages?

Unlikely. Managing fuel consumption is already a critical part of F1 and it will remain so in 2014; for example, did you know that our V8 can complete a race distance today using 11.6% less fuel than it did in 2006?

Today, teams are very good at monitoring fuel consumption: we track each injection of fuel into each cylinder so we know exactly how much fuel is being used. And there are over five million injections in an average race!

Ultimately, the smartest driver in the quickest car will be successful in 2014, which remains true to the fundamental challenge of Formula One. What we’re really doing is putting the ‘motor’ back into ‘motorsport’…

~ Official photos and details courtesy of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS ~

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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Mercedes-Benz at the NYIAS 2013 – reinforcement for the product offensive: Five new models for the record-breaking U.S. market

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Mercedes-Benz is pushing forward with its global product offensive in the U.S. too, with no less than five new models. The most exciting newcomers at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) include the battery-electric B-class Electric Drive and the high-performance CLA 45 AMG coupe, both of which are celebrating their world premiere at the 2013 NYIAS. In parallel, the series-production version of the new CLA-Class, the all-wheel drive wagon version of the E 63 AMG S-Model, the C 63 AMG “Edition 507” and the smart fortwo electric drive are also making their U.S. debuts.

“Our ongoing product offensive will bring added momentum to our global sales success. After a record year in 2012, we have made a good start in the New Year and are well on our way to set a new sales record in 2013,” says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars Sales & Marketing. “The new E-Class will reach the market in two weeks and, based on the excellent feedback we have been receiving, will certainly deliver a powerful sales impulse. We are expecting further volume growth in the second half of the year, too, with our other newcomers.”

“We have made an excellent start in 2013 and expect our first quarter sales in the U.S. to be the best ever. The new models will help us surf high up that success wave as the year continues,” says Stephen Cannon, CEO and President of Mercedes-Benz USA.

World premiere – CLA 45 AMG

Mercedes-AMG is starting a whole new era with the CLA 45 AMG, especially in the U.S. The attractive model is out to attract new target groups to the performance brand from Affalterbach. “The CLA 45 AMG is an expressive, four‑door coupe, inspired by its big brother, the CLS 63 AMG,” says Dr. Schmidt. “With a host of technology highlights, it possesses the hallmark AMG DNA and offers Driving Performance for the new generation.”

The two-liter turbocharged engine in the CLA 45 AMG is the world’s most powerful series-production four-cylinder and, with a specific output of 133 kW (181 hp) per litre of displacement, exceeds even the most super sports cars. The CLA 45 AMG combines its exceptional peak output of 265 kW (360 hp) and maximum torque of 450 Newton meters with incredible efficiency and a fuel consumption of just 6.9 litres of gasoline per 100 kilometres. The series-production, performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive delivers absolutely first class handling and, thanks to excellent traction, deals with the sprint from 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds.

More details >> HERE

The new CLA-Class – the “CLS’s kid brother” is under starter’s orders

In parallel to the world premiere of the CLA 45 AMG, the series-production version of the new CLA-Class is celebrating its U.S. market debut in New York. The four-door coupe builds on the idea of the successful CLS – a concept that has found many imitators. In keeping with its sporty positioning, the CLA is available with powerful turbocharged engines generating an output of up to 155 kW (211 hp), an optional sports suspension and the fully variable 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Breathtaking proportions and the powerfully dynamic design language featuring the interplay of concave and convex surfaces make the car utterly unmistakable.

More details >> HERE

World premiere – B-Class Electric Drive

Making an equally impressive global debut in New York is the Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive. The battery-driven electric vehicle has zero local emissions, yet delivers a highly dynamic driving experience thanks to its 130 kW (177 hp) electric motor and maximum torque of 320 Newton meters. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h is over in less than ten seconds.

Energy supply to the electric drive is handled by a high-performance lithium-ion battery, which delivers a range of around 200 kilometres (in the NEDC). It is located in the Energy Space beneath the floor, where it is well protected from impact and takes up very little space, thus ensuring that the five-door retains its generous interior and luggage space. The centre of gravity is low and central, for perfect handling and safe driving characteristics. The B-Class Electric Drive is well connected to the digital network and is easy to control and configure via the internet. It will make its global market debut in the U.S., where sales are scheduled to start at the end of 2013.

More details >> HERE

New to North America – smart fortwo electric drive

The newest generation of the smart fortwo electric drive is now bringing local zero-emissions mobility to the U.S. With a starting price of 25,000 US dollars, the urban two-seater is the most cost-effective series-production electric car on the market. The lithium-ion battery gives the smart fortwo electric drive a range of up to 145 kilometres and is completely recharged in the space of just six hours. The 55 kW (75 hp) electric motor is fast off-the-line and accelerates the car from 0 to 60 km/h in 4.8 seconds. With a top speed of 125 km/h, the smart fortwo electric drive has plenty of capacity for fun on urban highways.

More details >> HERE

E 63 AMG S 4MATIC Wagon

The new E 63 AMG S 4MATIC Wagon offers extremely dynamic driving fun for the whole family with an output of 430 kW (585 hp) and 800 Newton meters of torque, as well as the newly developed, performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The top engine version in the E-Class is now available in the U.S. as a highly versatile station wagon. Dr. Schmidt: “The most powerful E‑Class ever is now a family-friendly super sports car.” The AMG 5.5-liter V8 bi-turbocharged engine marks the absolute pinnacle of efficiency – the combination of high performance and low fuel consumption is without compare in the segment.

With an acceleration of 3.7 seconds from zero to 100 km/h, the E 63 AMG S 4MATIC Wagon occupies an absolutely first-class position in the market. The all-wheel drive distributes 33 percent of engine torque to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear. This rear-end emphasis delivers hallmark AMG handling plus the very highest levels of driving fun. It also raises safety and grip under wet or wintry road conditions. Optimum traction is guaranteed by a multi-plate clutch with 50 Newton meters of locking force, ensuring that the adhesive power of all four wheels is fully realized, especially on snow and ice.

More details >> HERE

C 63 AMG “Edition 507”

The bestselling C 63 AMG makes its entry as the exclusive “Edition 507” with added power from the AMG V8 engine. The increase of 37 kW (50 hp) to 373 kW (507 hp) and a maximum torque of 610 Nm is the outcome of technology transfer with forged pistons and the lightweight crankshaft from the SLS AMG. The C 63 AMG “Edition 507” is available as a sedan, wagon and coupe. The special edition is aimed at ambitious sporting drivers that will take pleasure in top-flight technology and an array of exclusive design and equipment details.

More details >> HERE

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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The new Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG: Design meets Driving Performance

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Mercedes-AMG kicks off the automotive spring of 2013 in the "Big Apple" in dynamic style as the CLA 45 AMG celebrates its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show. The philosophy behind this four-door mid-series coupé matches that of the successful CLS 63 AMG, the trendsetter among four-door high-performance coupés. A glance at this high-tech package suffices to show that the CLA 45 AMG also has all the typical DNA to make it a perfect representative of the AMG's Driving Performance brand claim: with a peak output of 265 kW (360 hp) and maximum torque of 450 Newton metres, its turbocharged engine is not only the most powerful four-cylinder unit in series production anywhere in the world but also a highly efficient one that meets the EU6 emissions standard. With fuel consumption of 6.9 litres per 100 km according to NEDC combined figures, the CLA 45 AMG meets even the most exacting requirements. The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive of the CLA 45 AMG similarly sets a new benchmark in its competitive segment.

Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "With the CLA 45 AMG, Mercedes-AMG is launching a unique and highly desirable automobile with all the typical DNA of AMG. A high-tech package that includes the most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine in the world as well as performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, it embodies Driving Performance
at its best."

The new four-door high-performance coupé offers an exceptional combination of an excitingly sporty driving experience, extravagant design and exclusive individuality. With the CLA 45 AMG Mercedes-AMG is establishing a completely new segment – as it did previously with the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake (2012) and the CLS 55 AMG (2004). At the time of their launch, neither of these AMG models had any direct rivals, but went on to inspire other automotive manufacturers. Turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission - the CLA 45 AMG features the same drive system that is already powering the A 45 AMG to deliver highly dynamic and efficient performance.

Key figures at a glance:

Typically AMG: the most powerful series-production four-cylinder turbo engine in the world

A glance at the technical data for the CLA 45 AMG shows: the AMG 2.0-litre turbo engine, with a maximum output of 265 kW (360 hp) and up to 450 Newton metres of torque, is the most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine in series production anywhere in the world.

The combination of high performance and torque, together with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, gives the CLA 45 AMG driving characteristics almost on a par with those of a sports car. The performance coupé accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and its top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited). But the AMG 2.0-litre turbo engine is impressive not only in terms of its dynamic performance but also with regard to its efficiency and environmental compatibility. The CLA 45 AMG achieves a fuel consumption level of 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres according to NEDC combined figures, while it already meets the EU6 emissions standard that only comes into effect in 2015 as well as the limit for the particle count per kilometre of 6 × 1011 part./km that will become mandatory in 2017.

The basis for these impressive figures is provided by the high-tech package which has been put together by Mercedes-AMG. As a high-performance engine belonging to the BlueDIRECT family, the four-cylinder turbo engine features spray-guided direct petrol injection via piezo injectors positioned centrally in the four combustion chambers. The combination of multiple fuel injection and multiple spark ignition improves fuel utilisation and increases thermodynamic efficiency substantially, leading to lower exhaust emissions. Other highlights include the gravity-die sandcast all-aluminium crankcase, weight-optimised crank assembly with forged steel crankshaft and forged pistons with friction-optimised piston rings, NANOSLIDE cylinder wall technology, air-water charge air cooling, generator management and ECO start/stop function.

Twin-scroll turbochargers and AMG sports exhaust system with exhaust flap

Mercedes-AMG addresses the essential challenges concerning the response of small-displacement turbo engines by means of a twin-scroll turbocharger, maximum derestriction of the exhaust system and an innovative injection strategy. The twin-scroll technology provides for a more spontaneous build-up of charge pressure, making effective use of exhaust gas back pressure, exhaust gas temperature and exhaust gas impulse. This results in a swifter build-up of torque right from the lower rev range. As a positive side-effect, the twin-scroll technology also benefits fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. With a maximum charge pressure of 1.8 bar, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine leads the field in this respect, too.

The AMG sports exhaust system features large pipe cross-sections and an automatically controlled exhaust flap. This technology, which is familiar from the SLK 55 AMG, reconciles the two apparently conflicting aims of tangible dynamism and hallmark Mercedes comfort on long journeys. The flap is continuously adjusted by map control according to the power called up by the driver, load status and engine speed. The AMG sports exhaust system emits a fascinating, full engine sound that is particularly impressive during powerful acceleration.

An AMG Performance exhaust system with exhaust flap is available as an option for the A 45 AMG. This provides for an even more emotional and striking engine sound when the throttle is open and during gear shifting. The double-declutching function during downshifting and the interruption of ignition and injection during upshifting under full load produce a particularly throaty sound with the AMG Performance exhaust system and create a level of emotionality which is otherwise the preserve of engines with more than four cylinders.

High-performance cooling system with components from the SLS AMG

The high driving dynamics of the CLA 45 AMG call for a highly effective cooling system. On the basis of the components from the SLS AMG, a low-temperature circuit is additionally deployed for air-water charge air cooling of the four-cylinder turbo engine. The cooler extending across the complete front level of the cooling module is supplemented by an additional cooler in the wheel arch. Together with the charge air cooler, which is connected in series, a high-performance electric pump ensures the required flow through the water coolers located behind the large intake ports. This provides for ideal cooling of the highly compressed charge air, thereby contributing towards optimum engine performance.

The cooling of the transmission oil is integrated into the water cooling circuit for the engine. The water cooler positioned behind the front apron is supported by the heat exchanger which is fitted directly on the transmission and supplied with cooling water as required by means of an auxiliary pump.

"One man, one engine": a tradition of hand-built excellence

As is the case with all eight- and twelve-cylinder engines, the new AMG four‑cylinder turbo engine is hand-built according to the traditional AMG philosophy of "one man, one engine". An exclusive assembly line has been set up for the new AMG engine at the Mercedes-Benz engine production plant in Kölleda – where all BlueDIRECT four-cylinder engines are built for the A- and B-Class models. A characteristic feature of the "one man, one engine" production process is the AMG engine plate bearing the signature of the responsible engine fitter. Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative production quality, the AMG engine plate also attests to the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz's high-performance brand.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission

Dual clutch transmission and all-wheel drive – the drive package on board the new CLA 45 AMG is a demonstration of high-end engineering prowess. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission is directly flange-mounted on the transversely installed engine. Key software modules have been adopted from the SLS AMG super sports car with its inspirational power transmission concept. The dual clutch transmission of the CLA 45 AMG features seven gears, three driving programmes, a double-declutching function and RACE START for optimum acceleration. The strengths of the AMG DCT sports transmission include spontaneous gear shifting without any interruption in tractive power, a tailor-made control strategy, extremely smooth and easy gear shifting and a high level of efficiency. Reinforced gear wheels provide for maximum stability. Synchroniser rings with carbon-fibre friction linings improve durability while also optimising the response time during manual gear-changing – the ideal basis for ambitious laps on cordoned-off race tracks.

"Momentary M mode" for even greater dynamism and driving enjoyment

Another special feature designed to enhance dynamic performance and driving enjoyment is the so-called "Momentary M mode". In C and S mode, this enables the driver to activate manual mode ("M") without having to remove a hand from the steering wheel, by pressing the "up" or "down" shift paddle once. In Momentary M mode the driver experiences the dynamism and performance of gear-shifting in manual mode in all the automatic driving programmes, with automatic up-shifting on meeting the rpm limit into the bargain. This allows the driver to devote his full attention to the vehicle's impressive performance.

The shift times in manual mode "M" and in Sport mode "S" are similarly sporty in character to those of the SLS AMG GT super sports car. Briefly and precisely interrupting ignition and injection under full load leads to even faster gearshifts in "M" and "S", with a more emotional sound than ever. In "C" mode (Controlled Efficiency), tangibly soft transmission and engine characteristics support a fuel-efficient and comfort-oriented driving style. In addition, in "C" mode the ECO start/stop function is active.

Performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive

The CLA 45 AMG comes with variable, performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all‑wheel drive as standard. In developing this all-wheel drive, the focus was firmly on performance and dynamism. The power flux to the rear powertrain is provided by a compact power take-off unit (PTU) which is fully integrated in the 7-speed sports transmission. It does not possess an oil circuit of its own. Instead, it is supplied with lubricant from the oil circuit of the sports transmission. This configuration gives rise to substantial weight advantages in comparison to rival systems which branch off power by means of an add-on component with its own oil circuit. Together with the friction-minimised tapered roller bearings, the PTU achieves an excellent level of efficiency. As an additional bonus, the system weight of the new AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive is up to 25 percent lighter than the all-wheel-drive versions offered by the competition.

A two-part propeller shaft transfers the power from the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine to the rear axle. In the interests of favourable weight distribution, an electrohydraulically controlled multiple-disc clutch is integrated with the rear axle differential. The multiple-disc clutch immediately detects slip at the front axle. A hydraulic pump instantaneously presses the discs together and channels the engine torque to the rear wheels as necessary. All this takes place virtually without the driver noticing. To enable particularly fast response, the pump is always active and does not require to be started up each time it is needed, as is customary with other systems. Power distribution is fully variable: in normal driving, the CLA 45 AMG uses front-wheel drive in the interests of optimum efficiency. When the driving dynamics so require, the variable AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive splits the torque between front and rear axle up to a ratio of 50:50 percent. The variables influencing the power distribution ratio are vehicle speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, steering angle, speed difference between the individual wheels, selected gear and accelerator position.

3-stage ESP® with ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist

An exclusive feature is the interaction of the AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive with the 3-stage ESP® and the ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist. The three ESP® stages enable the driver to vary the dynamics of the CLA 45 AMG according to his individual wishes at the push of a button. The safety-oriented "ESP ON" mode supports the driver in maintaining neutral handling characteristics. The system initiates braking intervention on one or more wheels and reduces the engine torque on detecting that the operating conditions are becoming unstable.

Briefly pressing the ESP® button activates "ESP SPORT Handling" mode. This dynamically oriented driving mode applies appropriate control strategies for later ESP® intervention and increased drive torque at the rear axle. This means more fun at the wheel for drivers who are keen to exploit the vehicle's dynamic potential. Pressing the ESP® button longer activates "ESP OFF". In this mode, the ESP® functions are not available. ESP OFF should only be used by experienced drivers on cordoned-off race tracks. If the driver steps on the brake pedal in "SPORT Handling" mode or "ESP OFF" mode, all the safety functions of the ESP® system become available during braking.

ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist complements the ESP® system to perfection: during dynamic cornering, imperceptible braking intervention on the inside wheel gives rise to a defined yaw moment around the vertical axis, resulting in precise cornering by the CLA 45 AMG and ensuring that the vehicle remains under control at all times. ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist is adapted according to the selected ESP® mode. In "ESP SPORT Handling" mode and "ESP OFF" mode it supports the driver's wish for increased agility and driving dynamics. ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist is an additional function of the Electronic Stability Program which noticeably improves not only agility, but also active driving safety in critical conditions.

AMG sports suspension with independent front and rear axle

Like every AMG high-performance automobile, the new CLA 45 AMG also incorporates sophisticated axle technology. For enhanced driving dynamics, the three-link front suspension is provided with stiffer steering knuckles and totally new elastokinematics. Newly developed, more rigid bearings are employed in the lower link plane. These provide for more agile cornering properties and more precise and direct feedback from the road surface. The more rigid bearings also lead to higher camber stiffness, enabling higher cornering speeds. In developing the complete front axle, great importance has been attached to attaining the best possible traction in highly dynamic driving.

The four-link rear axle of the CLA 45 AMG is also a totally new development. In the course of optimising the elastokinematics, the strut bearings were duly adapted for maximum driving dynamics and control. The rear axle carrier is provided with more rigid bearings for increased driving stability; the subframe is rigidly connected to the body. The AMG sports suspension with specifically tuned spring/damper units and larger stabilisers provides for high lateral acceleration and a reduced rolling tendency in fast double bends. The CLA 45 AMG comes as standard with AMG light-alloy wheels fitted with 235/40 R 18 tyres.

AMG speed-sensitive sports steering and AMG high-performance braking system

The electromechanical Dual Pinion AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with AMG-specific, speed-dependent power assistance and a constant steering ratio (14.5 : 1) enables high steering precision and agility. The electric motor is installed in space-saving configuration on the steering gear. The AMG high-performance braking system with ventilated and perforated brake discs all round in size 350 x 32 millimetres at the front and 330 x 22 millimetres at the rear provides for spontaneous and reliable deceleration.

Unmistakable design

Just a glance at the new CLA 45 AMG makes it very clear: any resemblance to the CLS 63 AMG is absolutely intentional. The expressive design idiom of the CLA has been enhanced by Mercedes-AMG with some characteristic AMG elements - and the result is a new design icon. The sporty proportions of the CLA were there from the start , but its dynamic look is reinforced by the AMG "twin blade" radiator grille and the cross strut in the AMG front apron, both painted in matt titanium grey. The generously proportioned cooling air intakes are framed by black flics, which improve the airflow over the cooling modules positioned behind them. Bi-xenon headlamps are included as standard.

An eyecatching view from the side is ensured by the sill panels with inserts in matt titanium grey. Further elements typical of a top-of-the-range AMG model include the AMG twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted grey and with a high-sheen finish, plus the "TURBO AMG" lettering on the wing. Seen from the rear, the CLA 45 AMG displays a distinctive AMG rear apron: this not only reveals the presence of the air outlet openings at the sides, but also incorporates a large diffuser insert and a trim section in matt titanium grey. The two chrome-plated twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system, including an exhaust flap, serve to emphasise the car's dynamic appeal. The striking LED tail lights are a standard feature.

Dynamic, exclusive and top-quality interior

Impressive quality, high-grade materials and all the dynamism and exclusivity commonly associated with Mercedes-AMG - the interior of the CLA 45 AMG leaves nothing to be desired. Sports seats in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre with red contrasting topstitching, red seat belts, the multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles, the AMG DRIVE UNIT and AMG door sill panels all come as standard. Coordinating perfectly with one another are the brushed aluminium trim  of the instrument panel and the five galvanised ventilation outlets. Information is provided by the AMG instrument cluster with its central colour display, the AMG main menu and the RACETIMER.

Numerous individualisation options are available for the CLA 45 AMG (selection):

- AMG carbon-fibre exterior mirror housing

- AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package: front splitter, side sill panel inserts and trim on rear apron in genuine carbon fibre

- AMG carbon-fibre interior trim

- AMG Exclusive package 

- AMG floor mats

- AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels in 8 x 19 fitted with 235/35 R 19 tyres, in two variants: painted in titanium grey with high-sheen finish or in matt black with high-sheen rim flange

- AMG Night package: privacy glass, black anodised beltline trim strip, black tailpipe trims in chromed finish, radiator fins in silver chrome, high-gloss black painted finish for front splitter, exterior mirrors, side sill panel inserts and rear apron trim

- AMG Performance exhaust system 

- AMG Performance suspension with tauter spring/damper tuning

- AMG Performance steering wheel and E-SELECT lever, electronic main key with AMG emblem

- AMG Performance seats

- AMG wheel bolt covers in black with hub caps in central-locking look 
(for standard AMG light-alloy wheels only)

- Intelligent Light System

- Red-painted callipers

The sales release date for the CLA 45 AMG is in July 2013; market launch will start this September.

Sales price in Germany, incl. 19 percent VAT: CLA 45 AMG - 56.078,75 euros

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~

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