The Mercedes-Benz A45 Amg. Just the name itself conjures images of blistering speed and German engineering prowess. Having spent a considerable amount of time behind the wheel of a friend’s A45 AMG, it’s frankly overdue for me to share a proper review of this fascinating machine. Over the times I’ve photographed this car, both in its original guise and after some tasteful exterior modifications, I’ve truly come to understand what makes this hot hatch so compelling, and where it might fall short. So, let’s dive into a detailed exploration of the A45 AMG.
“The A45 accelerated with an almost violent urgency, pinning you back in your seat. It was incredibly quick, reaching highway speeds in what felt like an instant.”
Under the hood of the A45 AMG lies a potent 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, a powerplant that generates a remarkable 355 horsepower. This power is channeled to all four wheels via a responsive 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), with a notable emphasis on front-wheel drive bias for everyday handling. The result is a claimed 0-60 mph (0-100km/h) sprint in just 4.6 seconds, and an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (248km/h). On paper, these figures are impressive for any car, let alone a hatchback.
But the numbers only tell half the story. The real-world experience of driving the A45 AMG is nothing short of exhilarating. Even without engaging launch control – a feature notoriously tricky to activate – planting your right foot unleashes a torrent of acceleration that can genuinely take you by surprise. Imagine cruising at around 12 mph (20km/h) in first gear and then flooring the accelerator. The A45 AMG reacts with an almost violent urgency, pinning you back in your seat as it catapults forward. It was incredibly quick, reaching highway speeds in what felt like an instant. The sheer ferocity of the acceleration is enough to plaster a grin across your face and leave passengers utterly speechless, especially those who might dismiss it as “just a Mercedes hatchback.”
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Beyond the sheer thrill of acceleration, let’s talk about the financial aspect, a crucial consideration for any performance car. When new, the A45 AMG commanded a hefty price tag, around US$93,000. At that price point, you could consider alternatives like a Porsche Cayman (981) from 2013. While the Cayman and Boxster models offer less horsepower at 261 hp (even the S versions are shy of the AMG’s output), they carry the prestigious Porsche badge and boast a more traditional sports car aesthetic. For those seeking understated performance, the Porsche might be a more appealing option. Furthermore, the Porsche’s mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout is arguably more desirable for purists compared to the A45 AMG’s front-biased all-wheel-drive system.
However, the landscape shifts dramatically when considering the used market. Just four years after its initial release, our friend acquired this A45 AMG in 2018 for approximately US$61,000. This represents a significant depreciation and suddenly positions the A45 AMG as a much more compelling proposition. This depreciation trend is common with AMG models, making them surprisingly accessible on the secondhand market. You could potentially find an early W204 C63 AMG for the same price as a brand new, lower-spec W205 C250, highlighting the value proposition of used AMGs.
“For the money, especially on the used market, the A45 AMG delivers a level of performance that is hard to match. It punches well above its weight class.”
Indeed, when evaluating the A45 AMG’s value proposition, especially in the used market, it becomes clear that you are getting an exceptional amount of performance for your money. “AMGs are much better to buy secondhand when you consider their brand new price,” as they can lose around 35% of their value in less than five years. Considering the A45 AMG’s potent performance, it emerges as a genuine bargain in the used car market. To put it in perspective, the budget for a used A45 AMG might only stretch to a mid-range C-Class or even a well-equipped MINI Cooper S when buying new, and these alternatives simply cannot compete with the A45 AMG’s raw speed and power.
So, is a secondhand A45 AMG worth around US$61,000? If your priority is pure performance, the answer leans heavily towards yes. For that price, the A45 AMG likely offers the most performance per dollar in its segment. While direct competitors like the GLA/CLA45 AMG siblings and the BMW M235i exist, even the M235i falls short in horsepower compared to the A45 AMG. The A45 AMG’s power output allows it to challenge even established sports cars, making it a true performance bargain.
However, the ownership experience extends beyond just performance figures. Examining the A45 AMG holistically reveals some areas where it compromises. The interior technology, specifically the infotainment system, is a point of contention. It utilizes the older COMAND system, familiar from the W204 C-Class generation. While functional, it feels dated and less intuitive compared to the more modern MBUX systems found in newer Mercedes models.
The interior quality remains high, as expected from Mercedes-Benz, but the ride comfort presents a significant drawback, particularly for daily driving. The suspension setup is undeniably firm, even harsh, making it less than ideal for navigating less-than-perfect road surfaces. Even on smooth highways, the ride leans towards stiff and unforgiving. The semi-bucket seats, while supportive during spirited driving, contribute to the overall lack of comfort during everyday commutes. One might even joke that a bed of rocks could offer a comparable level of compliance.
It’s worth noting that the test A45 AMG was equipped with 19-inch wheels. Perhaps opting for 18-inch wheels with tires featuring a thicker sidewall might improve ride quality and make it more bearable. However, even with non-run-flat tires on those 19-inch wheels, the A45 AMG’s ride is, to put it bluntly, jarring. It’s a characteristic that may become tiring for those prioritizing comfort in their daily driver.
Another aspect that warrants scrutiny is the 7-speed DCT gearbox. While it offers lightning-fast shifts during aggressive driving, reminiscent of a Formula 1 car, it exhibits some quirks in everyday scenarios. Unlike some dual-clutch transmissions that offer “creep” at low speeds, the A45 AMG’s DCT doesn’t hold the car on inclines when you release the brake pedal. This can lead to a delay between applying throttle and the car moving, sometimes resulting in unintended roll-back on hills. While this behavior is typical of wet-clutch DCTs, it can be disconcerting, especially in stop-and-go traffic or hill starts. Navigating this characteristic requires a learning curve and can be a source of frustration.
“It’s undeniably capable, but it lacks the playful engagement and emotional connection that defines truly great driver’s cars.”
Moving onto handling, the A45 AMG demonstrates impressive levels of grip. It corners with remarkable tenacity, clinging to the road even when pushed hard. The front end, in particular, exhibits exceptional bite, resisting understeer even at the limit. The traction control system is surprisingly permissive, allowing for a degree of driver involvement without overly intrusive interventions, a welcome departure from some overly cautious Mercedes systems.
Despite its capable handling and communicative steering, the A45 AMG ultimately falls short in delivering pure driving fun. The all-wheel-drive system, while effective for traction, prevents the playful rear-wheel-drive antics possible in cars like the BMW M235i. The A45 AMG, while undeniably fast and grippy, lacks a certain liveliness and character. It feels more like a highly efficient machine than an engaging driving companion. While the steering provides adequate feedback, it doesn’t necessarily elicit smiles or grins during cornering. The driving experience can feel somewhat detached, as if you’re simply directing the car rather than actively participating in the process.
“Fast, sonorous, and relatively affordable on the used market, the A45 AMG presents a compelling package. But it’s not without its compromises.”
In conclusion, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG is a car of contrasts. It’s undeniably tempting due to its ferocious speed, appealing exhaust note, and relatively accessible price point on the used market. However, these strengths are counterbalanced by compromises such as the dated infotainment system and a punishingly stiff ride. Crucially, despite its performance prowess, the A45 AMG lacks a certain character and engaging driving feel. The competent but somewhat sterile handling contributes to a sense of detachment, making it feel less emotionally rewarding than some of its rivals.
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For drivers prioritizing character and driving enjoyment above all else, the A45 AMG might be a less compelling choice. While the price is attractive, it might not fully satisfy those seeking a truly engaging and soulful driving experience. However, for buyers seeking maximum performance for their money, the A45 AMG remains a strong contender. Few cars in its price range can match its raw pace and capabilities. Furthermore, it’s still a handsome hatchback in terms of styling. Ultimately, the A45 AMG’s appeal hinges on individual priorities.
Finally, addressing reliability, the A45 AMG appears to be reasonably robust. Anecdotal evidence from the owner suggests solid reliability, even enduring a 15km drive on a flat tire without major issues. A temporary AWD system warning light appeared afterward but resolved itself. While “German reliability” can be a generalization, the A45 AMG seems to be a relatively dependable performance car.
All photos are credited to the original source. For commercial use, please contact the source directly.
