2012 Mercedes-Benz A250 AMG Sport
It’s official: Mercedes-Benz will add an AMG version to its A-class lineup, and it will be called the A45 AMG. It will feature a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four, internally called M133, producing around 350 hp; maximum torque will be more than 295 lb-ft. The engine, fitted with a single BorgWarner-sourced twin-scroll turbocharger, has a 6300-rpm redline. “It will be the most powerful engine in its class,” said AMG chief Ola Källenius. That class consists of the new M135i and the Audi RS3.
The A45 AMG will be equipped only with all-wheel drive. However, with the stability-control system off, power will be distributed with a rear bias. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, derived from the standard A-class unit but strengthened, handles gear-shifting duties. Unlike the standard A-class, the A45 AMG has a center-mounted, AMG-style gear selector, as well as column-mounted paddles.
Curb weight is estimated at around 3300 pounds, with a weight distribution of 60 front/40 rear. Top speed is an electronically limited 155 mph—it’s likely that the governor can be lifted to reach 174 mph.
This powertrain could come to the U.S., but it won’t be in the form of the A45 AMG five-door hatch. Much more likely is an AMG-ified CLA four-door coupe based on A-class architecture or even an A-class–based crossover. Photos and more information of the A45 AMG should be available within the next week.