Having spent considerable time behind the wheel of a friend’s Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG, it’s time to share a comprehensive review of this captivating machine. Despite several photoshoots documenting its evolution, a proper driving impression is overdue for a car that has truly stood out in my automotive experiences. Let’s delve into the details of the A45 AMG, exploring its performance, value, and overall driving character.
“The A45 accelerated like a demented baboon on methamphetamine. It was that fast. Before you know it the car ran out of revs in 1st gear and you have to change up, and you’ll reach 100km/h faster than you can say Toto Wolff.”
Under the hood, the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG boasts a potent four-cylinder turbo engine, generating a robust 355 horsepower. This power is channeled to all four wheels, predominantly the front, through a responsive 7-speed DCT gearbox. The result is an impressive 0-100km/h sprint achieved in just 4.6 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 248km/h. These figures are not just respectable; they firmly place the A45 AMG in the realm of serious performance vehicles.
Ferocious Performance: More Than Just a Hatchback
The on-road translation of these numbers is nothing short of exhilarating. The Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG is undeniably fast, exceeding expectations for a hatchback and competing with sports cars in outright acceleration. Even from a rolling 20km/h start in first gear, unleashing full throttle delivers an almost violent surge of power. The acceleration is so intense that it can catch even seasoned drivers off guard. Shifting through the gears is rapid, propelling you to 100km/h with breathtaking speed.
The absence of launch control engagement doesn’t diminish the A45 AMG’s astonishing acceleration. The sheer pace is surprising, even for those accustomed to high-performance vehicles. Imagine the reactions of passengers expecting just another Mercedes hatchback, only to be thrown back in their seats by the raw power of the A45 AMG.
Price and Value: AMG Affordability on the Used Market
Before diving into handling dynamics, let’s consider the financial aspect. When new, the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG carried a price tag of approximately $93,000 USD. At that price point, alternatives like a 2013 Porsche Cayman (981) become viable options. While the Cayman, even in S trim, offers less horsepower, it represents a quintessential sports car with a more classic aesthetic and mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration – often favored over a front-biased all-wheel-drive hatchback.
However, the landscape shifts dramatically in the used car market. Four years after its initial release, the A45 AMG could be acquired for around $61,000 USD. This depreciation makes secondhand AMGs, including the A45, significantly more appealing. You could potentially find an earlier generation W204 C63 AMG for a similar price to a brand-new, lower-spec C-Class.
“I really can’t think of any other car that can offer this much power for similar amount of money in the Indonesian market. The A45 AMG really is that powerful and can give even the most prominent sportscars a run for their money.”
This depreciation curve positions used AMGs as performance bargains. The A45 AMG, losing around 35% of its value in under five years, becomes an exceptionally powerful and rapid machine at a much more accessible price. For the same money as a used A45 AMG, a new car purchase might only yield a mid-range C-Class or even a MINI Cooper S, which pales in comparison to the A45 AMG’s performance capabilities.
Interior and Comfort: Balancing Performance with Daily Drivability
The critical question then becomes: is a secondhand Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG worth the investment? If performance is the primary metric, the A45 AMG delivers exceptional bang for your buck. In its market segment, only siblings like the GLA/CLA45 and the BMW M235i (which is still less powerful) come close in terms of power output for the price. The A45 AMG truly challenges even established sports cars in terms of raw speed.
However, evaluating a car extends beyond performance figures. The A45 AMG’s older COMAND infotainment system, similar to that found in the W204 C-Class, feels dated compared to contemporary Mercedes systems. While functional, it lacks the streamlined interface of newer iterations.
While interior quality remains high, ride comfort presents a significant compromise. The suspension stiffness is considerable, especially on less-than-perfect road surfaces. Even at highway speeds, the ride is far from plush. The semi-bucket seats, while supportive during spirited driving, can become tiresome during daily commutes. For everyday driving, the ride can feel jarring.
The tested A45 AMG was equipped with 19-inch wheels. Opting for 18-inch wheels with thicker tires might marginally improve ride quality, but even with non-run-flat tires, the 19-inch setup delivers a firm ride, potentially too firm for some drivers.
Gearbox and Drivetrain: Performance-Oriented DCT
The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in the A45 AMG is undeniably rapid and responsive, delivering seamless shifts akin to a race car. It avoids the lag sometimes found in other DCT systems. However, this performance-oriented DCT exhibits typical wet-clutch behavior: it doesn’t hold the car on inclines when releasing the brakes. This characteristic can be disconcerting, particularly with the A45 AMG’s potent power. Hill starts require a delicate balance of throttle input to prevent rollback and then avoid sudden forward surges. While techniques like using the handbrake might mitigate this, the behavior can be initially frustrating.
“It feels like a machine, a very fast machine, yes, but it doesn’t feel like it has character.”
Handling and Driving Dynamics: Grip vs. Engagement
The handling of the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG is undeniably capable. Grip levels are exceptionally high, particularly at the front end. Even under aggressive cornering, the car maintains composure with only subtle hints of understeer. The traction control system is surprisingly permissive, allowing for spirited driving without overly intrusive intervention.
While the steering provides decent feedback, and the handling is objectively proficient, the A45 AMG lacks a certain playful character. The all-wheel-drive system, while providing immense grip, prevents the rear-wheel-drive adjustability and engagement found in cars like the BMW M235i. The driving experience, while fast and efficient, can feel somewhat sterile. It’s a machine built for speed, but it might not evoke the emotional connection and driving joy sought by some enthusiasts.
“Ferociously fast, sounds amazing, and relatively cheap.”
Conclusion: Speed and Value, But Character in Question
In summary, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG presents a compelling package: ferocious speed, an impressive exhaust note, and relative affordability on the used market. However, compromises exist, including an outdated infotainment system and a notably firm ride. Crucially, despite its performance prowess, the A45 AMG can feel somewhat lacking in character. The handling, while competent, doesn’t translate into a deeply engaging or playful driving experience.
For those prioritizing outright speed and value, the A45 AMG is a strong contender. Its performance per dollar is undeniable. However, drivers seeking a more characterful and comfortable hot hatchback might find themselves looking elsewhere. While visually appealing and undeniably rapid, the A45 AMG prioritizes function over driving fun for some enthusiasts.
Regarding reliability, anecdotal evidence suggests the A45 AMG is reasonably robust. Instances of driving with a flat tire and subsequent minor AWD warnings that resolved themselves indicate a degree of resilience. While “German reliability” can be debated, the A45 AMG appears to be a relatively dependable performance vehicle.
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