The Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG. Just the name itself conjures images of blistering speed and track-ready performance packed into a compact hatchback. I’ve had the privilege of experiencing this potent machine firsthand, borrowing my friend’s A45 AMG on several occasions. Despite being thoroughly impressed each time, I realized I’d never penned down a proper review. This car deserves more than just fleeting impressions; it warrants a deep dive into what makes it so captivating, and perhaps, where it falls short.
Before we delve into the driving experience, you might notice some visual variations in the accompanying images. That’s because I’ve photographed this particular A45 AMG twice – once when it was freshly acquired and again after my friend tastefully enhanced its exterior aesthetics. But regardless of its looks, the core DNA remains the same: a ferocious heart beating within a practical hatchback shell. So, let’s get into it – my comprehensive review of the A45 Benz AMG.
“The A45 Benz accelerates with the ferocity of a cornered predator. Its speed is genuinely breathtaking. Blink, and you’ll be hitting 60 mph before you can even utter ‘Mercedes-AMG’.”
Under the hood of the A45 Benz resides a marvel of engineering: a handcrafted 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine. This powerplant is a beast, generating a staggering 355 horsepower. This power is expertly managed by a rapid-fire 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) gearbox, channeling output to all four wheels via Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, with a noticeable rear-wheel bias for enhanced driving dynamics. The result? A 0-60 mph sprint achieved in a mere 4.6 seconds, pinning you back in your seat with brutal force. And the speedometer keeps climbing until it hits an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (248 km/h). These aren’t just respectable figures for a hatchback; they place the A45 Benz firmly in sports car territory.
In real-world driving, the A45 Benz AMG feels even quicker than the numbers suggest. It’s not just ‘hatchback fast’; it’s genuinely rapid by almost any measure. I recall one instance, cruising at just 12 mph (20 km/h) in first gear, I floored the accelerator. The surge of acceleration was simply explosive, akin to unleashing a pent-up storm. It’s the kind of acceleration that recalibrates your perception of speed. Before you know it, you’re grabbing second gear, and 60 mph arrives quicker than you can say “Lewis Hamilton pole position”.
Even without engaging launch control – a feature I admittedly struggled to activate successfully – the A45 Benz’s off-the-line performance is astonishing. It’s the kind of speed that catches even seasoned drivers off guard. Imagine the looks of disbelief on passengers’ faces when they realize this unassuming Mercedes hatchback is capable of such ferocious acceleration.
Shifting gears, let’s talk about the financial aspect, specifically pricing. When brand new, the A45 Benz AMG commanded a hefty price tag, around $93,000 USD. That’s a significant investment, placing it in contention with some serious sports cars. For that kind of money, you could consider a Porsche Cayman (981) from 2013. While the base Cayman offers less horsepower at 261 hp, and even the S variant falls short of the AMG’s output with 330 hp, it’s a Porsche – a name synonymous with sports car pedigree, boasting a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout that many purists deem inherently superior. Unless you prioritize subtlety and wish to avoid drawing attention to your automotive expenditure, the Cayman might seem like the more prestigious choice. And aesthetically, in my opinion, the Porsche holds a certain visual appeal that the A45, as a hatchback, struggles to match. But, performance-wise, the A45 Benz is in a different league.
However, the landscape changes drastically when you consider the used market. My friend acquired his A45 Benz four years after its initial release, in 2018, for approximately $61,000 USD. This represents a substantial depreciation and suddenly makes the A45 AMG a much more compelling proposition. This is a common trend with AMG models; they often experience significant depreciation in the initial years, making them incredibly attractive buys on the secondhand market. You could potentially snag an early W204 C63 AMG for the same price as a brand-new, entry-level C-Class. Finding a used A45 Benz AMG at a reasonable price point unlocks immense performance for your money.
“In terms of sheer power for your dollar in the market, the A45 Benz AMG is hard to beat. It punches way above its weight class, challenging established sports cars.”
AMG vehicles, in general, become remarkably appealing as pre-owned purchases. They typically shed around 35% of their original value within the first five years. Considering the A45 Benz AMG’s blistering speed and potent performance, a used model represents exceptional value. To put it in perspective, the money my friend spent on his pre-owned A45 Benz would, at best, get you a mid-range specification C-Class brand new. Even a top-spec MINI Cooper S, while fun, is dwarfed in terms of performance when placed next to the A45 AMG.
Now, the pivotal question: is a secondhand A45 Benz AMG worth $61,000? The answer hinges on your priorities. If your primary focus is pure, unadulterated performance, then the A45 Benz AMG arguably delivers the most bang for your buck in its segment. Apart from its stablemates, the GLA/CLA 45 AMG, and perhaps the BMW M235i (which still lags behind in horsepower), there aren’t many direct competitors that offer this level of performance at a similar price point. The A45 Benz AMG truly possesses the firepower to challenge even higher-echelon sports cars.
However, my evaluation of cars extends beyond mere performance figures. This is where my relationship with the A45 Benz becomes a bit more complex. Firstly, the infotainment system. It’s equipped with the older COMAND system, reminiscent of the W204 C-Class generation. While not inherently flawed, it feels dated and less intuitive compared to the more modern MBUX systems found in newer Mercedes models.
The interior craftsmanship remains undeniably high-quality, typical of Mercedes-Benz. However, the ride comfort is… well, let’s be diplomatic and say it “leaves room for improvement.” The suspension is undeniably firm, tuned for track prowess rather than everyday comfort. Even on smooth highways, the ride quality is far from plush. The semi-bucket seats, while supportive during spirited driving, can feel rather unforgiving on longer journeys. For daily commutes on less-than-perfect roads, a gentler setup would be much appreciated.
It’s worth noting that my friend’s A45 Benz was riding on 19-inch wheels. Perhaps downsizing to 18-inch wheels with tires offering a thicker sidewall would mitigate some of the ride harshness. However, even with non-run-flat tires on the 19-inch rims, the A45 Benz’s ride is about as forgiving as a direct hit from a charging bull. Or perhaps, as I jokingly concede, my hips are simply getting old.
Continuing the theme of slight discomfort, the DCT gearbox deserves a mention. In terms of sheer shift speed and responsiveness, it’s exemplary. Gear changes are lightning-fast and seamless, reminiscent of a Formula 1 car transmission. I never experienced any lag or hesitation during acceleration, unlike some other dual-clutch systems I’ve encountered.
However, this particular DCT exhibits a characteristic that can be irksome in daily driving: it doesn’t inherently hold the car on inclines when you release the brake pedal. This is typical behavior for a wet-clutch DCT (though I welcome correction if my understanding is inaccurate). This trait can be particularly unnerving with such a potent engine. Imagine being on a hill, releasing the brake to apply throttle, and the car momentarily rolls backward before engaging and surging forward. It demands a very delicate balance of throttle and brake input to avoid jerky starts on inclines. Perhaps there’s a technique, like using the handbrake to hold position while building revs before releasing – similar to a manual car – but I’m hesitant to employ such methods on a DCT for fear of causing mechanical stress. This characteristic, while perhaps inherent to the transmission type, remains a significant annoyance in everyday driving.
“It’s undeniably a machine, a very rapid one, but it lacks a certain emotional connection, a distinct personality.”
Now, to the handling – an area where the A45 Benz AMG performs admirably. Grip levels are phenomenal; it clings to the road like a limpet. The front end, in particular, exhibits tenacious grip, resisting understeer even when pushed hard. Surprisingly, the traction control system isn’t overly intrusive, allowing for a degree of driver involvement before intervening – a welcome departure from Mercedes’ sometimes overly cautious electronic aids. Perhaps I wasn’t pushing it to its absolute limits, but the balance felt well-judged.
While the handling is objectively impressive, and the steering provides decent feedback, the A45 Benz AMG, overall, lacks a certain playful character. Being all-wheel drive, it’s not possible to easily induce rear-wheel slip and enjoy that playful oversteer sensation characteristic of rear-wheel-drive performance cars like the BMW M235i. It feels incredibly competent, almost clinically so. It’s a machine built for speed and precision, but it doesn’t quite elicit an emotional response. While the steering provides adequate feedback, you don’t find yourself grinning ear-to-ear when carving through corners. You feel like you’re directing a very capable tool, rather than actively engaging in a truly exhilarating driving experience.
“Incredibly fast, sounds fantastic, and relatively affordable (used).”
This somewhat sterile, character-absent handling contributes to a feeling that, paradoxically, the A45 Benz AMG can be perceived as…dare I say it…boring. Yes, the 355 horsepower engine delivers exhilarating bursts of acceleration, and even the standard exhaust note is pleasingly aggressive. But how long will the novelty of sheer power sustain your enthusiasm? For me, the initial thrill faded relatively quickly. The A45 Benz AMG is undeniably fast, but it lacked the intangible ‘character’ that makes me crave another drive.
In conclusion, the 2014 A45 Benz AMG presents a compelling package: ferocious speed, a captivating soundtrack, and relative affordability on the used market. However, there are trade-offs, including the dated infotainment system and a notably firm, sometimes jarring, ride. Despite these shortcomings, the car doesn’t gain any endearing quirks or personality. The handling, while highly effective, is ultimately somewhat uninvolving. It’s undeniably rapid, but beyond outright speed, the A45 Benz AMG doesn’t offer a deeply engaging or emotionally resonant driving experience.
If, like me, you prioritize character, driver engagement, and fun in a car, the A45 Benz AMG might be a ‘hard pass’. While the price is tempting, it doesn’t quite align with my personal preferences. However, if your primary objective is to acquire the most performance for your money, then cars like the A45 Benz AMG are rare gems. By all means, consider adding one to your garage. It remains a visually appealing hatchback, and the performance is undeniable. As for me, I’d likely explore alternatives that offer a more engaging and characterful driving experience.
On the topic of reliability, the A45 Benz AMG appears to be generally robust. My friend hasn’t reported any major issues. In fact, he once drove a considerable distance on a flat tire and the car emerged unscathed. A warning light related to the all-wheel-drive system briefly illuminated the following day but self-corrected after a short drive. While German car reliability can sometimes be overstated, the A45 Benz AMG seems to be reasonably dependable.
All photographs are my own unless otherwise credited. For commercial use of any images, please contact me. For personal use, please provide appropriate credit.
