Merc’s hot hatch is a beauty

The A 45 AMG will make sure that interest does not fade. With a maximum output of 265 kW and up to 450 Nm of torque, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine is reputed to be the most powerful series production four-cylinder engine in the world.

A couple of laps around the Kyalami race track left us with no reason to doubt that claim. But the A 45 AMG is not just about power.

It is also about how that power is used and the sound it makes while doing so. Manufacturers have been forced to reduce every kind of emission a vehicle can make and exhaust note has been no exception.

Mercedes, however, appear to be breaking that mould somewhat with their baby AMG. The sound is fantastic, both inside and outside of the car.

A performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system also means that the power is transmitted to the road optimally.

While dawdling gently along the car uses only front-wheel-drive, and as soon as the extra traction is needed the all-wheel drive system comes into play.

With the help of a reasonably easy to use launch control system the A 45 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in a claimed 4.6 seconds, while its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.

There is a lot of technology involved in making the A 45 AMG as powerful as it is, but the most significant of these is a twin-scroll turbocharger capable of producing maximum charge pressure of 1.8 bar, maximum derestriction of the exhaust system and an innovative injection strategy. The twin-scroll technology provides for a more spontaneous build-up of charge pressure, making effective use of exhaust gas back pressure, exhaust gas temperature and exhaust gas impulse.

The AMG sports exhaust system features large pipe cross-sections and an automatically controlled exhaust flap. This technology is familiar from the SLK 55 AMG.

The flap is continuously adjusted by map control according to the power called up by the driver, load status and engine speed.

The effect is quite remarkable, when the throttle is used enthusiastically, and there is a throaty buzz from the engine and a wonderful popping when there is rapid deceleration or gearshifting.

However, when cruising along normally the exhaust is simply a pleasant hum. It is the best of both worlds really.

All AMG engines are built using a “one man, one engine” production process and there is an AMG engine plate bearing the signature of the responsible engine fitter.

The AMG Speedshift DCT seven-speed sports transmission is directly flange-mounted on the transversely installed 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine.

The dual clutch transmission of the A45 features seven gears, three driving programmes, a double-declutching function and Race Start for optimum acceleration.

The shift times in manual mode “M” and in Sport mode “S” are similarly sporty in character to those of the SLS AMG GT super sports car. In “C” mode (Controlled Efficiency), soft transmission and engine characteristics support a fuel-efficient and comfort-oriented driving style.

The power flux to the rear powertrain is provided by a compact power take-off unit (PTU) which is fully integrated in the seven-speed sports transmission.

It does not possess an oil circuit of its own and is supplied with lubricant from the oil circuit of the sports transmission.

Power distribution is fully variable and in normal driving, the A 45 AMG uses front-wheel drive in the interests of optimum efficiency.

When the driving dynamics so require, the variable AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive splits the torque between front and rear axle up to a ratio of 50 : 50 percent. There is a three-stage ESP and ESP Curve Dynamic Assist.

Briefly pressing the ESP button activates “ESP SPORT Handling” mode.

A three-link front suspension is provided with stiffer steering knuckles the four-link rear axle of the A 45 AMG is a totally new development.

The A 45 AMG “Edition 1” stands apart in terms of appearance. As is familiar from the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake, the fully appointed “Edition 1” model variant boasts an expressive composition of exclusive exterior and interior details.

The A 45 AMG “Edition 1” focuses on the car’s affinity to motorsport. The exterior paint finish in cirrus white corresponds with the AMG sports stripes in matt graphite grey on the bonnet, roof and sides.

There are red highlights on the radiator grille, exterior mirrors and rear aerofoil combine with the red painted brake callipers and the AMG multispoke light-alloy wheels painted in matt black with special AMG hub caps in central-locking look matt black with special AMG hub caps in central-locking look.

The only apparent problem we found with the A45 AMG is that you cant have one, well not now anyway. The entire consignment is sold.

But when they get a couple more in stock they will cost you R599 500, including VAT but excluding carbon emissions tax.

As with all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars the A 45 AMG comes with a six-year/100 000 kilometre PremiumDrive maintenance plan.