By Otsile Kadiege

Mercedes-AMG has lifted the veils off the facelifted GLA45 S AMG 4Matic+. The high-performance compact SUV gets visual and technical innovations for the exterior and interior while performance figures remain unchanged.

Performance

Sticking with the performance of the most potent GLA, it’s powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine developing 310kW and 500Nm. It sends all its power through to its sophisticated all-wheel drive system via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Mercedes-AMG claims the GLA45 S AMG sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. The top speed is fixed at 270 km/h.

The standard driving programme RACE and the fully variable all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC+ with AMG TORQUE CONTROL contribute significantly to the dynamic driving experience. The rear axle gearbox features two electronically controlled multi-plate clutches, each of which is connected to a drive shaft on the rear axle. This design means that the engine power is not only distributed variably between the front and rear axles, but also selectively between the left and right rear wheels.

Exterior updates

The distinguishing feature is the newly shaped front apron and the AMG crest on the bonnet. LED technology is now used for the entire lighting system. The new light signature for the headlights and the rear lights adds subtle visual accents. Multi-beam LED main headlights are available as an option.

Viewed from the side, the wheel arch extensions are now painted in the colour of the body (they were black on the predecessor model). 20-inch wheels and the red brake callipers are standard. At the rear, the round twin tailpipe trim and the spoiler lip on the roof reveal that this is the most powerful version of the GLA family.

Interior updates

Inside, the updated GLA45 S AMG features the latest generation of the AMG Performance steering wheel as standard. It also gets a new AMG-specific screen design and extended range of functions, the MBUX infotainment system is said to be more powerful than before and features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher USB charging power and an additional USB-C port improve connectivity.

It also gets new upholstery covers for the standard sports seats or the optional AMG Performance seats. For the first time, the combination of Artico artificial leather and Microcut microfibre can also be ordered in Bahia Brown. The new colour for the Arico artificial leather is Sage Grey / Black. Red Pepper / Black is also available for the first time for the leather seat covers. The range of options is rounded out with open-pore lime wood in brown for the trim elements.

Availability

Mercedes-Benz South Africa is yet to announce local availability, pricing and specifications.