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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LEAKED: The new CLA 45 AMG revealed prior to NYIAS 2013 debut

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The new Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG comes to complete the new compact portfolio of the Affalterbach tuner that kicked off with the new A 45 AMG premiering at Geneva Motor Show this month. Following the same recipe, the high-performance four-door coupe will be officially unveiled at the New York International Auto Show starting March, 29th, thus marking the introduction of the C 117 series onto the American market.

First official details and hi-res pics from Mercedes-AMG are set to come as early as tomorrow or next days, so prior to the automotive event. The CLA 45 AMG features a grumpier stance in comparison to its hatchback brother. The dominant signs of the front end are the sharpened headlights featuring LED technology, the twin-blade grille and the carbon fiber fins placed near the extraordinary looking air intakes. The chromed logos on the front wings highlight this car is equipped with AMG's brand new TURBO M133 powerplant. While the profile is practically identical to the standard-spec CLA, the rear end receives a pronounced aerodynamic lip on the trunk hood, a muscular diffuser and quad exhausts.

The sports ride gets enhanced by the 3-stage ESP® with ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist, which combines with the high-grade suspension and brake system to deliver an unparalleled level of dynamism. Performance characteristics are similar to the A 45 AMG. The Performance 4MATIC platform sends the maximum output of 360 hp and directs the impressive amount of torque of 450 Nm to the four wheels in a front-biased ratio of 67:33 with the help of the SPEEDSHIFT DCT-7 dual-clutch automatic transmission. Zero to 100 km/h takes a mere 4.6 seconds, while the top speed reaches the 250 km/h barrier (electronically governed).

Like the sports hatchback, the CLA 45 AMG too benefits from the extensive customization programme of the AMG Performance Studio, which offers unlimited choices for personalizing your dream car. Obviously, the EDITION 1 limited-run model will be available from the start of sales. Reports suggest that starting price for the new CLA 45 AMG should come below 50,000 dollars in USA and below 40,000 euros in Europe.

Stay tuned to find out the latest as new details and pictures are released!

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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The new Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG and A 45 AMG in new Driveclub™ racing game for PlayStation 4

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On 21st February, in New York, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) presented Driveclub a brand new racing franchise developed exclusively for Playstation 4 by Evolution Studios. The car line-up in this pioneering game, which conveys better than ever before the heart and soul of motor racing and the passion it inspires, includes several exceptional sports cars from Mercedes-Benz – first and foremost among them the new CLA 45 AMG and the new A 45 AMG. Both these high-performance vehicles will be celebrating their real-world premiere in March 2013. Driveclub and the new Playstation 4 console will be launching this holiday season.

Playstation 4 is SCEI’s next generation computer entertainment system that redefines rich and immersive gameplay with powerful graphics and speed, intelligent personalisation, deeply integrated social capabilities, and innovative second-screen features. Driveclub is the perfect fit for the lifestyle of the next generation of PlayStation gamers: an exhilarating, visceral and highly socially connected racing experience that showcases the immense capabilities of Playstation 4. Driveclub is a networked game to be played in real clubs, encouraging players to team up and to collaborate and compete with one another while experiencing the thrill of driving the best cars in the world, on the best roads in the world. The audiovisual quality of the cars and the tracks is staggering, and the view from the cockpit is absolutely true to life, immersing the player in every race and recreating the power and the drama that they would feel if they were actually sitting in the driver’s seat.

As well as the CLA 45 AMG and the A 45 AMG, further vehicles with the three-pointed star will join Driveclub.

Firing up the world's most powerful four-cylinder production engine

In March the A 45 AMG will be presented at the Geneva auto show. With this new family member Mercedes-AMG will for the first time be offering a high-performance vehicle in the compact class segment. The AMG-Version of the new four-door Coupé, the CLA, is celebrating its world premiere in New York. With a peak output of 265 kW (360 hp) and a maximum torque of 450 newton metres, their turbocharged AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is the world's most powerful four-cylinder power unit in series production. The power density of 133 kW (181 hp) surpasses even that of the most powerful super sports cars. At the same time they excel with outstanding efficiency, while also meeting the EU6 emissions standard. The A 45 AMG and the CLA 45 AMG are equipped as standard with the fully variable, performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.

Credits: Daimler AG

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New CLA 45 AMG to be premiered during private event at NYIAS 2013

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An announcement on the official Facebook page of Mercedes-Benz USA ( https://www.facebook.com/mercedesbenzusa/ ) signals the new CLA 45 AMG high-performance four-door coupe is about to make its official debut during a private night event at the New York International Auto Show 2013 kicking off 27th March.

If visitors complete the online form in the dedicated application, they can win chance to see the new model engineered in Affalterbach in person during the special Mercedes-Benz AMG Preview Night - the special trip also includes further advantages, as tickets for the salon, a 3-day hotel accomodation, a spending budget and round-trip airplane/auto transportation to the site.

However, given these coordinates, the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG (C 117) will skip the public show at New York, as the global premiere is scheduled for the IAA Frankfurt 2013 in September. Sales of the new model will start worldwide this autumn, at a baseline price located just under €40,000 / $54,000. In the mean time, CLA's brother, the A 45 AMG boasting 354 hp, 450 Nm and Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system will be officially introduced at Geneva, in less than a month. Market release for the W 176 sports variant is planned for summer 2013.

Find out more details --> https://www.facebook.com/mercedesbenzusa/app_457670514281673 !

Note: Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 EDITION 1 pictured.

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On track of CLS and Co.: 2013 premiere for CLA and CLA 45 AMG

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The new Mercedes-Benz CLA embodies in a production car the avant-garde design of the Concept Style Coupé which had its world premiere at the Auto China fair this April. The exciting compact mid-range coupé adopts the concept vehicle's non-conformist, provocative and masculine lines. On numerous points of detail the designers have drawn inspiration from the SLS and CLS modern Mercedes classics – examples being the sporty, self-assured front end, the powerdomes on the bonnet or the three-dimensional side design featuring an additional brawny muscle extending over the dropping line from the rear door to the boot lid.

In keeping with its sporty positioning, the CLA is available with high-torque turbo engines rated at up to 155 kW (211 hp), sports suspension and the newly developed 4MATIC. The technical highlights of the new design icon include numerous driving assistance systems, such as advanced COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS. In addition to outputting visual and acoustic warnings when an impending danger of a rear-end collision is identified, the latter system is also able to carry out autonomous partial braking if the driver fails to respond to warnings and a danger of collision persists.

Five equipment and appointment packages which vary greatly in character are available to individualise the striking compact mid-range coupé (length/width/height: 4630/1777/1437 millimetres). In keeping with the digital lifestyle of the CLA's social media-savvy target group, smartphones can additionally be fully integrated into the vehicle's display and operating system.

CLA 45 AMG: the most dynamic way to experience the new 4MATIC

As the high-powered top model of the new compact class, the CLA 45 AMG broadens the portfolio of Mercedes-Benz's high-performance brand to offer a fascinating high-performance vehicle in the compact class, too. The newly developed AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine will set new standards in its engine capacity segment: with maximum torque of well over 400 Newton metres and low fuel consumption, AMG is aiming to lead the competition. In conjunction with the specially adapted 4MATIC version for this engine-power class, the CLA 45 AMG will be one of the most dynamic, powerful and efficient four-cylinder series-production compact cars.

Perfect power transmission is ensured in the CLA 45 AMG thanks to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission with dual clutch technology and performance-oriented all-wheel drive. The ideal basis for high cornering speeds and exciting, agile handling also comes courtesy of the AMG sports suspension with independently developed front and rear axles, electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, AMG high-performance braking system and 3-stage ESP® with "SPORT Handling" mode. The 3-stage stability programme is also applied to adapt the control strategies of the variable 4MATIC system:

- In "ESP ON" mode a safety-oriented driving programme supports the driver with clear-cut self-steering behaviour, i.e. essentially neutral handling characteristics.

- 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.

- Pressing the ESP® button longer activates "ESP OFF". "ESP OFF" should only be used by experienced drivers on cordoned-off race tracks.

After pressing the brake pedal in "ESP SPORT Handling Mode" or "ESP OFF" mode, all ESP® functions are available once again.

Credits: Daimler AG

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