All-new for Mercedes-Benz is its 2015 GLA 45 AMG, a small SUV that Mercedes-Benz has dubbed “the next best thing.” This model is more powerful and contains many performance-enhancing features — known as the AMG edition. The inline 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbo engine maximizes with 355 horsepower and 332 lb.-ft. of torque. The 0-60mph acceleration is an impressive 4.8 seconds. The AMG comes standard with the 4MATIC® all-wheel-drive transmission, with enhanced agility through the 3-stage ESP® and torque-vectoring Curve Dynamic Assist for dependable cornering and handling, making this a worthwhile small, luxury SUV.
The design and concept is Mercedes-Benz’s latest in the market of sporty, small, SUV crossover vehicles. While the style and brand are there, the usual luxury appointments are minimal for this “starter” SUV. The smaller cabin is surprisingly roomy, and has a very modern design with a focus on convenience and technology. The free-standing monitor protrudes from the dash almost like an oversized smartphone — and includes many of the same features — making this a unique bend on the latest technology. The dash is sporty, with circular air vents and center-console controls managing climate, audio and gearbox. Sporty Black MB-Tex bolster seats have racing-inspired DINAMICA inserts on each of the four sport-contoured outboard seats. The seat inserts feature horizontal fluting and red top-stitching to match the racy red seatbelts for this AMG model.
The exterior is tough-looking and boasts a strong stance that denotes a confident, well-handling machine. The side-wing curved shell is very stylish and includes the latest technology in lighting and aerodynamics. The bold, wide, redesigned grille is Mercedes-Benz iconic, only enhanced by the AMG double-crosswing design, which is tagged with the AMG logo, set against the black mesh background. The Bi-Xenon headlamps offer greater-visibility lighting and are surrounded by LED turn signals and daytime running lamps. The distinctive rear lamps are fiber-optic tail lamps that make for instantaneous response when breaking and brilliant design encompassing the newest shape identifying the Mercedes-Benz look.
Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG
City: 23 mpg
Hwy: 29 mpg
0-60 mph: 4.8 sec
Trans: 7-speed dual clutch
MSRP: $48,300
