Mercedes GLA45 AMG Concept is a Juiced-Up German
Is there a market for high-performance, compact crossovers? AMG sure thinks so, unveiling the Concept GLA45 AMG at the 2013 L.A. Auto Show.
Powered by the brand’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the GLA45 AMG Concept boasts 355 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque giving it impressive performance without compromising fuel efficiency. The powerplant, which is also found in the Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, is the world’s most powerful four-cylinder engine. And just like the CLA45 AMG, the GLA45 AMG Concept features the automaker’s 4Matic all-wheel drive system.
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That means it accelerates to 60 mph in under five seconds while the AMG-specific seven-speed dual-clutch transmission gives it sporty performance.
On the exterior, the Concept GLA45 AMG rolls on massive AMG 21-inch wheels paired to 255/35/21 tires. The wheels are finished in a matte black with a red lip for a race-inspired look and are complemented by AMG wheel hub covers with a center-lock look. Of course lurking behind those wheels are high-performance brakes from AMG sporting red calipers.
Making sure that the GLA45 AMG isn’t confused with your standard GLA model is an AMG front bumper with large front splitters finished in high-gloss black. The black air deflectors also go together with the large cooling air intakes. Other design elements to the Concept GLA45 AMG include the “twin-blade” radiator grille in silver chrome, side skirts with gloss black inserts, a “TURBO AMG” badge on the front wings, high-gloss black roof rails, a large rear spoiler and the number 45 on the doors.
“With the Concept GLA45 AMG, we are setting a stake firmly in the ground of the strongly growing market segment of compact SUVs,” said Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG. “Our customers – a young target group who set great store by styling, dynamism and independence – can now start looking forward to a dynamic high-performance car.”
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GALLERY: Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG Concept Show Photos
GALLERY: Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG Concept Official Photos
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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