The 2020 Mercedes-AMG S models have arrived in SA

The world’s fastest hatch from Mercedes-AMG, the A45 S 4MATIC+, has arrived in South Africa along with its CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ cousin. The automaker has done a brilliant job in restructuring the 45 S models from the ground up, and the results are a new hyper hatch and a coupe. Both models drive better, have a smarter gearbox, and offer a more engaging drive than their predecessors.

For this blog post, we focus largely on the 2020 Mercedes-AMG A45 S 4MATIC+ hatch with less focus on its coupe sibling. However, both are almost the same cars with little changes in the design.

The new A45 S houses an all-new 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine good for 421 hp (310kW) at 6,750rpm and 500Nm of torque at 5,000-5,250rpm. The automaker has replaced the seven-speed dual-clutch with the AMG Speedshift DCT 8G transmission that is channelled to all the wheels, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.9 seconds (the CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ does the same in 4.0 seconds).  

The addition to the AMG TORQUE CONTROL in both the hot hatch and the coupe allows them to deliver motorsport-like performance. There are two independent clutches on the rear axle, permitting complete variable torque distribution to each of the rear wheels. However, this is more evident in the Mercedes-AMG A45 S 4MATIC+ with active standard-fit Drift mode.

The introduction of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G transmission takes sporty driving to a new level. The gearbox not only employs the RACE START function and motor racing gear shifts but also features comfort-oriented gear shifts to optimise your drive experience. In fact, this new gearbox not only sends power from front to rear but also across the rear axle, left to right.

Those looking for extra comfort in everyday driving or better performance on the track can opt for AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension. The adaptive damping allows you to select different driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+.

While Mercedes-AMG extensively focussed on bumping the power figures and offering better performance, they did not neglect interior and exterior design. Adding sporty touches to the 2020 Mercedes-AMG A45 S is a unique front apron, the AMG-specific radiator trim, and the bonnet with power domes.

Inside the new Mercedes-AMG A45, you find the same sporty feeling with a touch of elegance thanks to the MBUX multimedia system with the instrument cluster, boasting three distinct display patterns comprising Supersport mode with a big rev counter. If you are more into track driving, we suggest you go for the optional AMG Performance steering wheel.

The automaker has installed the AMG Performance seats for a sportier feel and maximum drive comfort. Each seat has an integral head restraint and an AMG badge placed on it.

Talking about the CLA 45 S 4MATIC+, you can distinguish it from its bigger track width with flared fenders and "TURBO 4MATIC+" lettering.

The price for the 2020 Mercedes-AMG A45 S 4MATIC+ starts at R 1,101,000, while the CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ costs a minimum of R 1,211,000.

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG S models are one of the most complete premium performance cars in the market today, offering an engaging drive, quick acceleration, and peppy performance. We thoroughly recommend them!

Do you love cars as much as we do? Check out this review The Ford Ranger Thunder.

Please note the imagery supplied in this blog was taken off  www.caradvice.com