Detroit: 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG – Redefining a Sporty Crossover

2015 mercedes benz gla gla45 amg video detroit

2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG is one of many shiny new vehicles making their debut at the 2014 North American International Auto Show. At first glance, it’s difficult to decide what class or even what type of vehicle it is, thanks to its bold design. Other variants of small Mercedes hatchbacks have only been available in Europe, but revisions to the chassis and size of the body and it is now ready to hit the roads in America as the GLA.

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The drivetrain and other mechanical components of the GLA are identical to its European counterpart. Allowing this sporty crossover to reach 60 mph in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph is a stout 2.0 liter turbocharged 4 cylinder. This hot little motor puts down an impressive 355 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, and all that power is sent through a SPEEDSHIFT DTC 7 speed dual clutch automatic transmission and a road shredding 4MATIC AWD system.

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This new GLA45 AMG is aimed at a much younger age group than typical Mercedes buyers and is going to be priced accordingly, however pricing information has not been released yet. In true Mercedes-Benz fashion this GLA45 will come loaded with new high-end features and the latest technology. The sporty crossover will also wear 18 inch Alloy wheels and clearly gets the AMG treatment with aggressive body moldings, large functional vents and of course the AMG badging. Buyers will be able to add options such as ungraded interior materials, carbon ceramic brakes, sport seats and carbon fiber accenting. The Mercedes GLA45 AMG aims to redefine what a sporty hatch/crossover is in America.