Mercedes-Benz AMG proudly unveiled the 2014 model year CLA45 AMG at the prestigious New York International Auto Show, marking its world debut. This four-door coupe, slated for release in the U.S. market in November, draws design inspiration from the acclaimed CLS63 AMG, a pioneer in the realm of high-performance four-door coupes. Boasting an impressive 355 horsepower and 332 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is powered by the world’s most potent four-cylinder production engine. Furthermore, the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system integrated into the CLA45 AMG establishes new benchmarks within its vehicle segment.
Ola Källenius, the former CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, stated, “With the CLA45 AMG, Mercedes-AMG introduces a distinctive and highly desirable vehicle embodying the quintessential AMG DNA. Its advanced technological features, including the world’s most powerful four-cylinder production engine and the performance-focused AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, epitomize ‘Driving Performance’ at its pinnacle.”
Pure AMG Power: The Pinnacle of Four-Cylinder Engine Technology
At the heart of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG lies a groundbreaking two-liter turbo engine. This powerplant stands as the world’s most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder production engine, delivering 355 hp and 332 lb.-ft. of torque. This formidable combination of high power, robust torque, and performance-oriented all-wheel drive endows the CLA45 AMG with exceptional driving capabilities. The dynamic coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.5 seconds, with an electronically governed top speed of 155 mph.
Mercedes-AMG achieves these remarkable figures through the implementation of cutting-edge engineering across the engine and its associated systems. The incorporation of multiple injection and multiple spark ignition for each piston stroke enhances fuel atomization and significantly improves thermodynamic efficiency, contributing to reduced exhaust emissions. Additional key features include a sand-cast aluminum crankcase, a weight-optimized crank assembly featuring a forged steel crankshaft and forged pistons with friction-optimized piston rings, NANOSLIDE cylinder lining technology, water-to-air intercooling, alternator management, and the ECO Start/Stop function.
Advanced Turbocharging and AMG Sport Exhaust System
Mercedes-AMG effectively addresses the challenges inherent in small-displacement turbo engines by employing a twin-scroll turbocharger, minimizing exhaust system restrictions, and utilizing an innovative injection strategy in the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG. Twin-scroll technology optimizes the utilization of exhaust gas back pressure, temperature, and momentum to facilitate a quicker buildup of boost pressure. This results in a more rapid torque delivery even from lower engine speeds. The twin-scroll design also contributes to enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced exhaust emissions. With a boost pressure of 11.9 psi (0.8 bar), the AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine also leads in boost pressure among production engines.
The AMG Sports Exhaust system features large diameter pipes and an automatically controlled butterfly valve within the exhaust system. This technology, also employed in the SLK55 AMG, allows the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG to produce a distinctive and powerful sound during acceleration, while maintaining a refined and quieter tone during steady-state cruising, such as on highways. The valve is continuously adjusted by the engine control unit based on signals from the accelerator pedal position and engine speed.
The exhaust butterfly valve enhances the exhaust note during wide-open throttle and gear shifts. It also generates a particularly pronounced sound during downshifts using the rev-matching feature, and during upshifts under full load with momentary ignition and injection suppression. The AMG Performance Exhaust system further amplifies the exhaust note, creating a sound profile typically associated with engines of larger displacement.
High-Performance Cooling System Inspired by the SLS AMG GT
The significant power output of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG necessitates a highly efficient cooling system. Drawing inspiration from technology found in the SLS AMG GT, an auxiliary low-temperature cooling circuit is incorporated for water-to-air intercooling of the pressurized intake air. A large radiator at the front of the cooling module is supplemented by a secondary radiator located in the wheel well. A high-performance electric pump ensures a substantial coolant flow through the radiators positioned behind the large air intakes and the intercooler. This system provides optimal cooling of the highly compressed intake air, contributing to peak engine performance.
Transmission oil cooling is integrated within the engine water cooling circuit. The radiator behind the front fascia is supported by an additional heat exchanger, directly mounted on the transmission and supplied with cooling water by an auxiliary pump.
“One Man, One Engine”: Hand-Built Craftsmanship
Mirroring the assembly process of all AMG V8 and V12 engines, the new 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine in the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is hand-built according to the traditional AMG “one man, one engine” philosophy. This takes place on an exclusive assembly line dedicated to the new AMG engine at the Mercedes-Benz engine production plant in Kölleda, Germany. The “one man, one engine” production process is symbolized by the AMG engine plate, bearing the personal signature of the engine builder. This plate serves as an emblem of AMG’s superior production quality and emphasizes the unparalleled heritage of the Mercedes-Benz high-performance brand.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed Sports Transmission
The drivetrain of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, featuring a dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive, exemplifies engineering excellence. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed sports transmission is directly mated to the transversely mounted AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine. This dual-clutch transmission offers seven gears, three driving programs, a rev-matching function, and RACE START for maximum acceleration. Key attributes of the AMG DCT sports transmission include rapid gear changes without power interruption, a tailored control strategy, exceptionally smooth and effortless gearshifts, and high efficiency. Reinforced gears ensure maximum durability, while synchronizer rings with carbon-fiber friction linings enhance longevity and optimize responsiveness during manual gearshifts – ideal for achieving fast lap times on a track.
Momentary M Mode for Enhanced Driving Dynamics
The “Momentary M mode” is a unique feature designed to elevate performance and driving enjoyment in the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG. In the C and S shift modes, drivers can engage the “M” manual mode momentarily by simply pressing the “up” or “down” shift paddle once, without removing their hands from the steering wheel. In “Momentary M” mode, drivers experience the full dynamics and performance available in all automatic driving programs, with automatic upshifts only occurring at the rev limit. This allows drivers to fully concentrate on the vehicle’s impressive performance capabilities.
Shift times in manual mode “M” and sport mode “S” are comparable to those of the SLS AMG GT super sports car. Momentary suppression of ignition and injection under full load results in even faster gearshifts accompanied by a more exhilarating sound. In “C” mode (Controlled Efficiency), the transmission and engine characteristics are optimized for fuel efficiency and comfort-oriented driving. Furthermore, the ECO Start/Stop function is active in “C” mode.
AMG Performance 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive System
The development of the standard AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG prioritized “performance” and “dynamic spirit.” A compact power take-off unit (PTU), seamlessly integrated into the 7-speed sports transmission, transfers power to the rear wheels. Its lubrication is supplied by the same oil circuit as the transmission, resulting in significant weight savings compared to competing systems that utilize a separate add-on PTU with a dedicated circuit. Combined with low-friction tapered roller bearings, the PTU delivers exceptional efficiency. Notably, the new AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system is up to 25 percent lighter than comparable systems from competitors.
A two-part propeller shaft transmits engine power to the rear wheels. A multi-disc clutch, integrated into the rear differential, contributes to favorable weight distribution. An electronically controlled hydraulic pump instantaneously presses the discs together and dynamically distributes engine torque to the rear wheels when required. This process occurs virtually imperceptibly to the driver. For rapid response, the pump remains constantly active, eliminating the need for start-up each time it is needed, as is common in other systems. The torque distribution is fully variable: in typical driving conditions, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG operates in front-wheel drive for optimal efficiency. If the system detects any front wheel slippage, the variable AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive dynamically distributes torque between the front and rear wheels at a ratio of up to 50:50. The variables influencing torque distribution include speed differences between individual wheels, vehicle speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, steering angle, selected gear, and accelerator pedal position.
3-Stage ESP® with ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist
A unique feature of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is the interaction between the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system and the 3-stage ESP® system, incorporating ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist. The three ESP® stages allow drivers to adjust the dynamics of the CLA45 AMG to their personal preferences at the touch of a button. The standard “ESP ON” mode aids the driver in maintaining safe and neutral handling. The system initiates braking on individual wheels to counteract the onset of unstable driving situations.
A brief press of the ESP® button activates “SPORT Handling” mode, which delays ESP® intervention and allows for greater torque delivery to the rear wheels. This setting enhances driving enjoyment for those seeking to explore the car’s full handling potential. Pressing and holding the ESP® button activates “ESP OFF” mode, intended for experienced drivers on closed circuits. Importantly, whenever the driver applies the brake pedal in “SPORT Handling” or “ESP OFF” mode, all safety features of the ESP® system become fully active during braking.
ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist complements the ESP® system. During spirited cornering, subtle braking of the inside wheel directs more torque to the outside wheel, resulting in precise and secure turn-in for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG. ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist operates differently in each ESP® mode, and in “SPORT Handling” and “ESP OFF” modes, it enhances agility and driving dynamics according to the driver’s intentions. ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist is an additional feature of the already impressive Electronic Stability Program, noticeably improving both agility and active driving safety within the limits of physics.
AMG Sports Suspension with Multi-Link Axles
Like every high-performance AMG vehicle, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG incorporates advanced suspension technology. To enhance driving dynamics, its three-link front suspension features stiffer steering knuckles and completely redesigned elastokinematics. Newly developed, more rigid bearings are employed in the lower link plane to provide more agile turn-in and more precise and direct feedback from the road surface. These stiffer bearings also contribute to improved camber stability, enabling higher cornering speeds. Throughout the front suspension development, a primary focus was placed on maintaining optimal traction under demanding sporty driving conditions.
The four-link rear suspension of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is also a completely new design. To optimize elastokinematics, the bushings were modified to maximize driving dynamics and control. The rear suspension carrier utilizes more rigid bearings for enhanced directional stability, and the subframe is rigidly bolted to the body. With its finely tuned spring and shock absorber units and larger stabilizer bars, the AMG sports suspension ensures high lateral acceleration and reduced body roll during rapid S-bends. The CLA45 AMG comes standard with twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels finished in titanium gray with a high-sheen finish, fitted with 235/40 R 18 tires.
AMG Speed-Sensitive Sports Steering and High-Performance Braking
The electromechanical sports steering with AMG speed-dependent power assist and a constant steering ratio of 15.1:1 delivers precise and agile steering for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG. Its electric motor is directly mounted on the steering gear to optimize space.
To provide rapid and reliable deceleration, AMG high-performance brakes are fitted, featuring vented and perforated front and rear discs measuring 13.8 x 1.2 inches at the front and 13.0 x 0.8 inches at the rear.
Unmistakable AMG Design
Even at first glance, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG clearly communicates its character. The design similarities to the CLS63 AMG are intentional. Mercedes-AMG complements the expressive design language with distinctive AMG elements, establishing a new design standard. The CLA was designed with sporty proportions, and the AMG “twin blade” radiator grille and the cross member in the AMG front fascia, both painted matte titanium gray, further emphasize its sporty appearance. Large air inlet ports on the sides are framed by black winglets that optimize airflow to the cooling system behind them. Bi-xenon headlights are included as standard equipment.
From the side, sill panels with matte titanium gray inserts are prominent on the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG. Other hallmarks of a top-tier AMG model include the twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels, finished in titanium gray with a high-sheen finish, and a “TURBO AMG” badge on the fender. The AMG rear fascia incorporates stylized side air vents, a large diffuser insert, and matte titanium gray trim. The conjoined quad-tip chrome tailpipes of the AMG exhaust system underscore its performance-oriented nature. Striking LED tail lights are standard equipment.
Dynamic, Exclusive, and High-Quality Interior
The interior of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG impresses with its evident quality, premium materials, and sporty, exclusive character typical of Mercedes-AMG. Standard equipment includes AMG door sill panels, sport seats upholstered in MB-Tex man-made leather and DINAMICA microfibers with red contrasting stitching, red seat belts, a multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles, and an AMG DRIVE UNIT bearing the AMG Affalterbach Crest. The AMG instrument cluster provides essential information with a central color display, the AMG main menu, and the RACETIMER, while brushed aluminum trim on the instrument panel complements the five anodized ventilation nozzles.
Numerous optional features are available for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, including:
- AMG Exterior Carbon-Fiber package: front splitter, side sill panel inserts, and rear fascia trim in genuine carbon fiber
- AMG Carbon-Fiber Interior trim
- AMG 19” 16-Spoke Alloy Wheels (8 x 19 with 235/35 R 19 tires, titanium gray with high-sheen finish or matte black with high-sheen rim flange)
- AMG Night Styling: black anodized beltline trim strip, black-chromed tailpipes, silver chrome radiator grille blades, gloss black front splitter, exterior mirrors, side sill panel inserts, and rear fascia trim
- AMG Performance steering wheel
- AMG Performance seats by Recaro
- AMG wheel center caps (for 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels only)
- Red painted calipers
- AMG Driver’s Package: AMG Performance Suspension, 19-inch AMG Alloy Wheels, Red Brake Calipers, and 167 mph top speed
- AMG Performance Exhaust
U.S. deliveries of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG commenced in November 2013, with a suggested retail price starting at $47,450 (the CLA250 starting price was $29,900).
