Mercedes-AMG has taken the covers off the all-new CLA 45 4MATIC+, and it is unlike any AMG compact before it. Swapping its turbocharged four-cylinder engine for a triple-motor electric powertrain, the new performance EV produces a staggering 680hp and can sprint from 0-100kmph in just 2.7 seconds.
Three motors, 680hp, and AWD
At the heart of the CLA 45 4MATIC+ are three axial flux electric motors, two at the rear and one at the front.
Performance highlights:
- 680hp peak power
- 1,759Nm of torque
- 0-100kmph in 2.7 seconds
- Top speed of 250 km/h (270 km/h with AMG Dynamic Plus Pack)
- Fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive
- Rear torque vectoring
- 94kWh battery pack
- 800V architecture
- Up to 670km WLTP range (saloon)
Mercedes says the front motor disengages during light loads to improve efficiency, while the rear motors handle most driving duties.
Fast charging and track-focused hardware
The new CLA 45 supports DC fast charging at up to 330kW, allowing a 10-80 percent charge in just 22 minutes. Mercedes also claims a 10-minute charge can add over 270km of range.
The chassis has also received AMG treatment with:
- AMG Ride Control adaptive suspension
- Seven drive modes
- Active rear spoiler (saloon)
- Active roof spoiler (Shooting Brake)
- Large performance brakes
- AMG Track Pace telemetry system
- Predictive Performance Manager for track driving
The exterior gets a proper AMG makeover
The CLA 45 gets a more aggressive look than the standard CLA with:
- AMG Panamericana grille
- Wider wheel arches
- New AMG front bumper
- Active aerodynamic elements
- 19-inch wheels as standard (20-inch optional)
- AMG-specific rear diffuser
- Optional illuminated grille
Mercedes will offer the performance EV in both Saloon and Shooting Brake body styles.
Interior focuses on performance
Inside, the cabin gets several AMG-specific upgrades.
Key highlights include:
- AMG Performance seats
- AMG steering wheel
- Latest MBUX infotainment with AI integration
- AMG Performance displays
- AMG Track Pace
- Seat shakers that simulate combustion engine vibrations
- Artificial V8-inspired driving sounds with simulated gear shifts
Mercedes says the AMGFORCE S+ mode recreates the sound and feel of one of its turbocharged four-cylinder engines to make the EV feel more engaging.
Also read: https://fly-wheel.com/dodge-charger-enters-a-new-dawn-blending-heritage-with-modern-design/
Final take
A compact AMG producing 680hp and hitting 100kmph in 2.7 seconds would have sounded impossible just a few years ago. But while the performance is undeniable, the fake engine sounds, simulated gear shifts and vibration effects also show that even Mercedes-AMG knows raw speed alone isn’t enough. Drivers still miss the drama of a real AMG engine, and the CLA 45 seems determined to recreate it digitally.
