AN ASTONISHING 415BHP FOR THE MERCEDES-AMG A 45
The Germans have released a technical specification sheet for the Mercedes-AMG A 45 that tells us the latest turbocharged four-pot will pump out a terrifying 415bhp.
The forthcoming Mercedes-AMG A 45 will arrive with the world’s most powerful engine, a 2.0-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers an astonishing 415bhp and 500Nm of torque. That's 21bhp more than the current title-holder, the Audi RS 3, and places the powerplant in rather elite company. The hyper-hatch will push out 208bhp per litre compared to the McLaren Senna and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrofoglio that deliver 197bhp and 173bhp per litre respectively.
The A 45’s new 2.0-litre powerplant comprises a twin-scroll turbocharger, two-stage fuel injection system, a forged steel crankshaft, forged aluminium pistons and a twin-pump cooling system. The turbo pushes 30psi of boost into the intake and, to expel the gasses effectively, the exhaust valves are larger too.
According to Mercedes-AMG, the M 139 engine has been rotated 180 degrees, which aids cooling as the intake now sits behind the grille. The turbocharger and exhaust manifold are positioned near the firewall and allow for shorter piping runs and better aerodynamics, which in turn provides for improved air ducting and thus superior cooling.
The A 45 will receive a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system and dual-clutch transmission, as will the detuned version of the motor that will arrive with 382bhp and 480Nm of torque.
Although not fully revealed, spy shots indicate flared wheel arches, quad exhausts, a new front splitter and large roof spoiler for the top-dog of the A-Class range. The more aggressive look seems to be what customers are looking for considering the commercial success of the current A 45.
According to AMG boss, Tobias Moers: "There was a business case for it, it has been selling and the board has been happy with us. It’s not just one car, either. It’s four, with the A 45, CLA 45, CLA 45 Shooting Brake and GLA 45. This gives us the freedom to move forward into the future with the next generation.”