416bhp M139 2.0-litre turbo makes itself into compact SUV
The new Mercedes GLA has been given the same ‘45’ treatment as its ‘A’ and ‘CLA’ counterparts, pushing up to 416bhp in its most powerful ‘S’ form from the M139 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, the most powerful four-cylinder in production.
The GLA 45 makes 382bhp in usual form, whereas the leading A45 S model produces an further 33bhp, making it the most powerful compact crossover available. The standard GLA45 will make the 0-62mph dash in 4.4 seconds, with the S making the same time 0.1 seconds quicker. The S model also comes minus speed limiter, taking top speed up from 155mph to 168mph.
The GLA 45 is outfitted with a variable four-wheel-drive system, which uses torque vectoring technology to send different amounts of power to each rear wheel according to the driving situation. Both wheels are controlled by their own electronically multi-disc clutch, permitting each to be disengaged from its drive shaft independently. An eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox also features, and has been constructed to offer mass acceleration.
The 45 also offers a tailored AMG suspension arrangement to offer greater rolling refinement whilst allowing “easy vehicle control at the limits”. Additional developments involve reduced torque steer under acceleration and more reactive steering.
The interior receives the full AMG treatment, with sports bucket seats, a custom-made steering wheel with drive mode selection and customisable shortcut buttons, and a distinct digital instrument cluster.
Only the GLA45 S will be coming to the UK, with prices expected to start from around £52,000.