For those seeking exhilarating performance without sacrificing everyday practicality, the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 emerges as the definitive answer. This isn’t just a compact SUV; it’s a dynamic powerhouse meticulously crafted by AMG to deliver a driving experience that thrills on the track and excels on daily commutes. The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 redefines its segment, blending versatility with raw power in a package that’s as comfortable navigating city streets as it is carving through mountain passes.
The Heart of the Beast: Handcrafted 2.0L Turbo Engine
At the core of the GLA 45 AMG lies the revolutionary M139 2.0-liter engine, a testament to AMG’s engineering prowess. This isn’t just any four-cylinder; it’s the world’s most potent series-produced four-cylinder turbo, meticulously hand-built in Affalterbach following the revered “One Man, One Engine” principle. This philosophy ensures that each engine is assembled by a single master craftsman, guaranteeing unparalleled precision and quality.
The numbers speak volumes: a staggering 382 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque propel the GLA 45 AMG to the forefront of its class. This output surpasses its predecessor, delivering a level of performance that challenges even higher-segment vehicles. AMG engineers haven’t just focused on peak power; they’ve meticulously sculpted the torque curve to mimic the linear power delivery of a naturally aspirated engine. This “torque shaping” ensures that the peak torque arrives between 4,750 and 5,000 rpm, providing instant responsiveness and relentless acceleration across the rev range.
Innovative Engine Design for Peak Performance
The M139 engine is not just about brute force; it’s a showcase of intelligent engineering. In a departure from the standard transverse mounting in other AMG 35-series models, this engine is rotated 180 degrees on its vertical axis. This ingenious repositioning places the turbocharger and exhaust manifold at the rear, closer to the firewall, while the intake system moves to the front. This configuration yields several crucial advantages:
- Aerodynamic Efficiency: The reversed layout allows for a flatter, more aerodynamic front-end design, reducing drag and enhancing overall efficiency.
- Optimized Airflow: Shorter, less convoluted air ducts for both intake and exhaust improve airflow, enhancing engine responsiveness and performance.
- Turbocharger Innovation: The twin-scroll turbocharger is engineered for rapid response at lower engine speeds while maintaining peak power at higher rpm. For the first time, the compressor and turbine wheel shaft are mounted on anti-friction bearings, minimizing mechanical losses and allowing the turbocharger to reach speeds up to an astounding 169,000 rpm with a maximum charge pressure of 2.1 bar.
- Two-Stage Fuel Injection: To achieve its remarkable specific output, the engine employs a sophisticated two-stage fuel injection system. High-precision piezo injectors deliver fuel directly to the combustion chambers at pressures up to 200 bar in the first stage. The second stage utilizes solenoid valves for additional intake manifold injection, ensuring optimal fuel delivery across all operating conditions.
- Advanced Cooling System: Managing the heat generated by such a high-output engine requires an equally advanced cooling system. The system features separate cooling circuits for the cylinder head and crankcase, allowing them to operate at different temperatures. A cooler cylinder head maximizes power and ignition timing efficiency, while a warmer crankcase minimizes internal friction. A mechanical water pump handles cylinder head cooling, while a secondary electric high-performance water pump manages crankcase temperatures, ensuring optimal thermal management under all driving demands.
Assembled by Masters: “One Man, One Engine” Philosophy
The “One Man, One Engine” principle is more than just a slogan at AMG; it’s a deeply ingrained philosophy. The M139 engine’s dedicated production line in Affalterbach embodies this commitment, blending handcrafted precision with Industry 4.0 processes. This state-of-the-art facility integrates the latest advancements in ergonomics, material flow, quality assurance, and efficiency. AMG’s “smart production” vision ensures maximum flexibility, transparency, and efficiency, guaranteeing the highest levels of engine quality and production process integrity through innovative digital technologies.
Agile Power Delivery: AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8-Speed Transmission
Complementing the potent engine is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, a key contributor to the GLA 45 AMG’s dynamic character. The transmission’s gear ratios are carefully calibrated to deliver exhilarating acceleration across the entire speed spectrum, coupled with lightning-fast gear changes and optimized transitions during upshifts.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8-speed transmission adapts to the driver’s demands and driving situation through the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. Each mode provides distinct accelerator and gearshift characteristics, ranging from comfortable cruising to aggressive track performance. The standard RACE-START function unleashes maximum acceleration from a standstill, providing a thrilling launch experience accompanied by a distinctive engine sound with partial ignition interruption during upshifts and automatic double-declutching on downshifts. Despite its performance focus, the GLA 45 AMG also incorporates efficiency-enhancing features. In “Comfort” mode, the ECO start/stop function activates, and the “gliding” function can be engaged in “Individual” mode to further optimize fuel consumption.
Unrivaled Traction: AMG Performance 4MATIC+ All-Wheel Drive
Harnessing the engine’s immense power and ensuring optimal traction in all conditions is the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive system. The heart of this system is AMG TORQUE CONTROL, integrated into the new rear axle differential. This innovative technology utilizes two electronically controlled multi-disc clutches, each connected to a rear axle drive shaft. This allows for not only variable power distribution between the front and rear axles but also selective distribution between the left and right rear wheels.
The result is consistently optimized traction, regardless of road surface or driving conditions, particularly during aggressive cornering on a closed circuit. The system’s electromechanical control offers significant advantages over electrohydraulic systems, providing faster response and speed-independent disc actuation across the entire adjustment range, enhancing driving dynamics and precision. The all-wheel drive characteristics adapt based on the selected drive mode and AMG DYNAMICS setting. “Basic” and “Advanced” modes utilize a “Comfort” setting for 4MATIC, while “Pro” and “Master” modes (part of the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package) switch to “Sport” mode, prioritizing agile handling and pushing the limits of dynamic performance even further.
Precision Handling: AMG Suspension and Chassis
The foundation for the GLA 45 AMG’s exceptional handling is the meticulously engineered AMG suspension. It strikes a balance between high directional stability and dynamic cornering prowess while enhancing comfort compared to its predecessor. Longitudinal and transverse dynamics are finely tuned, with all suspension components revised to achieve higher lateral acceleration and predictable vehicle control at the limits.
The front axle employs a McPherson strut design with a transverse control arm, suspension strut, and tie rod. This special axle geometry minimizes torque steer, enhancing both comfort and agility. Lightweight aluminum wishbones reduce unsprung mass, improving suspension responsiveness. Motorsport-derived radially bolted front brake calipers enhance stability, and a rigidly attached front axle carrier further stiffens the front section. The 4-link rear suspension, rigidly connected to the body via a rear axle carrier, ensures torsional rigidity. Three transverse control arms, a trailing arm, and specific bearings per rear wheel maximize driving stability and agility.
For customizable ride dynamics, the adaptive damping system AMG RIDE CONTROL offers three suspension modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. This system automatically adjusts damping forces at each wheel within milliseconds, adapting to driving conditions and road surfaces for an optimized balance of ride comfort and agility. The robust high-performance braking system ensures fade-resistant deceleration and short braking distances. The GLA 45 features 4-piston fixed front calipers and 1-piston floating rear calipers, acting on internally ventilated and perforated discs for optimal heat dissipation and brake fade prevention. Optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package upgrades the braking system with larger 6-piston fixed front calipers and red-painted calipers with a black AMG logo. The electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive power steering, with a variable transmission ratio rack and two characteristic curves, provides sporty and direct cornering. Steering feedback adjusts based on the selected drive program, offering either taut and sporty or more comfort-oriented steering feel.
Dynamic Driving Experience: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT and DYNAMICS
The GLA 45 AMG offers a wide spectrum of driving characteristics through the six AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs: “Slippery,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport+,” “Individual,” and “RACE” (available with the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package). These programs modify numerous parameters, including:
- Powertrain: Accelerator pedal response, shift times, and shift characteristics.
- AMG DYNAMICS: Agility functions like all-wheel drive control, steering characteristics, and ESP® functions.
- Suspension: Damping characteristics (Comfort, Sport, Sport+).
- Exhaust System: Sound and exhaust note (Balanced or Powerful).
A key new feature is AMG DYNAMICS, an integrated agility control system that enhances ESP® stability functions with agility-enhancing interventions in all-wheel drive control, steering, and additional ESP® functions. AMG DYNAMICS offers four levels:
- “Basic”: Assigned to “Slippery” and “Comfort” modes, providing very stable handling with high yaw damping.
- “Advanced”: Activated in “Sport” mode, maintaining neutral balance with reduced yaw damping and enhanced agility for dynamic maneuvers.
- “Pro”: (Professional) Linked to “Sport+” mode, offering even more dynamic assistance and enhanced road feedback during cornering.
- “Master”: Exclusive to “RACE” mode (AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package), designed for closed circuits, delivering a slight oversteer balance, low steering angle requirement, and maximum agility. “Master” mode requires ESP® SPORT Handling Mode or ESP® OFF to be activated.
In “Individual” mode, drivers can customize AMG DYNAMICS levels. AMG steering wheel buttons provide direct access to AMG drive programs and other AMG functions for on-the-fly adjustments. The body shell is extensively reinforced to provide a rigid foundation for precise handling, track stability, and camber stability, even at high speeds. A lightweight aluminum “shearing plate” under the engine, along with diagonal underbody struts, increases torsional rigidity, reducing body shell movement and minimizing rolling and pitching during cornering and braking.
Advanced Technology: MBUX and AMG TRACK PACE
The GLA 45 AMG seamlessly integrates cutting-edge technology with its performance DNA. The MBUX infotainment system creates a close connection between driver, vehicle, and passengers, featuring intuitive operation, high-resolution 3D graphics, and customizable AMG-specific displays. Drivers can choose from “Classic,” “Sport,” and “Supersport” AMG display styles for the instrument cluster. “Supersport” mode features a central round rev counter and bar-style supplementary information, creating a three-dimensional visual depth. The AMG menu provides access to specialized displays like gear indicator, Warm-up, Set-up, G-Meter, RACETIMER, and Engine Data. The touchscreen multimedia display further reinforces the dynamic configuration with AMG-specific visualizations. The “Hey Mercedes” voice control system, powered by artificial intelligence, understands natural language commands for infotainment and vehicle functions.
For track enthusiasts, AMG TRACK PACE, a virtual race engineer, is optionally available. This MBUX-integrated software continuously monitors over 80 vehicle-specific data points during track driving, displaying lap and sector times, and comparing them against a reference time. Visual cues indicate whether the driver is currently faster or slower than their best. AMG TRACK PACE also measures and saves acceleration and deceleration figures and utilizes a new algorithm for precise vehicle positioning, even detecting track departures or shortcuts. Data is displayed on the multimedia display, instrument cluster, and optional head-up display. Pre-loaded race tracks like the Nürburgring and Spa Francorchamps are included, and custom circuits can be recorded. The MBUX Augmented Reality function can overlay the ideal racing line from a stored track onto the multimedia or head-up display, providing a virtual driving instructor.
Muscular Design: Exterior and Aerodynamics
The GLA 45 AMG’s exterior design boldly reflects its dynamic capabilities. The long hood with powerdomes, compact greenhouse, and muscular wheel arches unmistakably signal its sports car DNA. The AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical slats immediately identifies it as an AMG Performance family member. Standard LED High Performance headlamps illuminate the road ahead, while flared front fender wheel arches and large air intakes with silver chrome inserts amplify its aggressive stance. The silver chrome front splitter optimizes airflow and aerodynamic performance.
In profile, aerodynamically optimized 19-inch light-alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design and silver chrome or optional high-gloss black door panel inserts catch the eye. Optional 21-inch light-alloy wheels further enhance its visual impact. The rear view is dominated by dual round twin tailpipes and a wide rear bumper, with slim two-piece rear light clusters emphasizing width. A diffuser with four vertical fins enhances aerodynamics, and a body-colored airflow breakaway edge on the roof spoiler completes the distinctive rear profile.
Driver-Focused Interior: Sporty and Luxurious Cabin
The GLA 45 AMG’s interior creates a close connection between driver and machine, blending sporty appointments with the advanced MBUX infotainment system. Contoured sport seats with firm lateral support provide a commanding driving position for both driver and front passenger. Optional AMG Performance seats are available for enhanced lateral support. Standard upholstery combines black MB-Tex with DINAMICA microfiber, accented by red double topstitching and red seat belts. AMG carbon fiber-look trim on the dashboard further enhances the sporty ambiance. Optional Neva Grey/Black MB-Tex upholstery with mid-grey double topstitching and light-longitudinal-grain aluminum trim, as well as four different leather upholstery options, offer further personalization.
The piano black lacquer-look center console includes a standard touchpad controller and additional switches for 3-stage ESP®, manual transmission mode, and the optional AMG RIDE CONTROL adaptive damping system. The multifunction sport steering wheel in Nappa leather, with a flattened rim and perforated grip areas, provides excellent tactile feedback. Galvanized steering wheel shift paddles enable manual gear changes for a sportier driving style. Optional AMG Performance steering wheels in Nappa leather, DINAMICA microfiber, or Nappa leather/DINAMICA offer enhanced grip and aesthetics. Available AMG steering wheel buttons provide direct access to AMG drive programs and customizable functions. The AMG exhaust system enhances the GLA 45 AMG’s versatile character, offering a range of sound signatures from discreet to dynamically sporty, controlled by an exhaust gas flap based on engine speed and load.
Conclusion
The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 is more than just a compact SUV; it’s a statement. It’s a fusion of practicality and pulse-raising performance, a vehicle that confidently straddles the line between daily driver and weekend thrill machine. With its handcrafted engine, advanced drivetrain, and race-bred technology, the GLA 45 AMG sets a new benchmark in the compact performance SUV segment, appealing to drivers who demand versatility without compromising on exhilarating AMG driving dynamics.
Technical Data at a Glance
| 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 | |
|---|---|
| Engine | Handcrafted AMG 2.0-liter Inline 4 Turbo |
| Displacement | 1991 cc |
| Max. output | 382 hp at 6,500 rpm |
| Peak torque | 354 lb-ft at 4,750-5,000 rpm |
| Drive | AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive with AMG TORQUE CONTROL |
| Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8-speed dual-clutch transmission |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 4.3 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph* |
* Electronically limited
