If Mercedes-Benz’s A-Class is just too compact for the AMG performance seeker, the Affalterbach-based tuning shop for the German firm has an ace up its sleeve, in the form of the A-Class saloon. As with the forthcoming BMW 1-Series, its top version features 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol power, in a transverse location, which promises 306bhp, around 45mpg (at a push) and CO2 emissions of 162g/km, which makes it model-for-model competitive.
Merc drives all four wheels through a seven-speed, twin-clutch, automated-manual transmission, which delivers a 0-60mph time of a supercar-taunting 4.5s and a politically-restricted top speed of 155mph, should you be able to find a German motorway upon which to test its potential. It is coupled to a taut body structure and judiciously reworked spring and damper rates for an enhanced but compliant dynamic balance.
The four-door saloon is based on a wheelbase of 2.729m and displays the fluid proportions of a good-looking and, yet, compact car that possesses sportingly short overhangs at the front and rear of the body. The radiator grille features twin louvres, while the AMG Line front apron has visible ‘flics’ on the air intakes, a front splitter and silver chrome trim elements for its distinguishing AMG design features.
From the side, the aerodynamically optimised 18.0-inch diameter light-alloy wheels in five twin-spoke design and the side sill panels of the AMG Line provide a focal attraction. The car’s more muscular vehicle shoulders, with precise character lines running below, emphasise the much-improved side volume. The car’s door mirrors sit on the beltline as they do on sports cars. At extra cost, 19.0-inch alloys reinforce the customary AMG appearance.
Two-part tail lamps and a new diffuser insert below the rear bumper underscore the width of the saloon’s rear end and there is also a spoiler lip on the boot lid and the two round tailpipe trims are positioned on the left and right extremities of the car. As with several new cars, the accommodating and easier-access 420-litres boot area can be entered hands-free, by a ‘kicking’ foot motion below the rear bumper.
There is good access to the back seat and plenty of space once ensconced. Of course, the car features the ground-breaking, ‘thin-film’ instrument panel of other Merc models, which combines interesting, informative, reconfigurable digital dials and graphics that have also been very well-received by customers. Its trailblazing voice control that is activated in any accent with the words ‘Hey Mercedes’ is also on-board.
The touchscreen multimedia display also emphasises the car’s dynamic character with individual AMG displays. The new generation of AMG steering wheels continues to provide the perfect link between driver and vehicle. The leather-wrapped tiller is pleasant to the touch, while the galvanised shift-paddles for the gearbox allow an even sportier driving style to be exercised. Man-made Artico ‘hide’ clads the seats and door cards, in a very comfortable interior.
