The new Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC+

A quick lap around the track, or a weekend trip with your gear stowed in the back: the new GLA 45 4MATIC+ is the perfect companion for any adventure. A compact all-rounder, the GLA 45 can unleash a level of dynamic handling and performance that impresses even sports car owners. Equipped with the most powerful series-produced four-cylinder turbo engine to date, the GLA 45 delivers an impressive 382 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. Active, fully-variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive in combination with AMG TORQUE CONTROL provides the basis for top traction in all driving conditions. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual clutch transmission guarantees perfect sequences in all situations, smoother gearshifts, and AMG's trademark acceleration: the GLA 45 4MATIC+ accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds.

"The second generation of our very successful compact sports model is now complete. The GLA model, in the form of the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 now includes our innovative four-cylinder turbo engine, so setting the benchmark in this segment. Not only is the new GLA 45 significantly more dynamic, it is also more practical for everyday use than its predecessor, ensuring its appeal to a dynamic, leisure-oriented target group", says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

One new feature which makes a substantial contribution to the incomparable driving experience is the active, fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive: this system offers selective power distribution to the rear axle wheels via AMG TORQUE CONTROL. Power is distributed to the left and right rear wheels flexibly and at different ratios, resulting in optimum traction, regardless of the road surface conditions. This is made possible by a redesigned rear axle differential featuring two multi-disc clutches, which selectively provides the flow of power to each individual rear wheel.

Superlative power: the new four-cylinder turbo engine

With an output of 382 hp, the newly developed M139 2.0-litre engine from Mercedes-AMG is the world's most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder manufactured for series production. Mercedes-AMG improved the power output of the preceding engine by 7 hp, and also increased maximum torque from 350 to 354 lb-ft of torque.

The new GLA 45 4MATIC+ sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, and can reach a top speed of 250 km/h. Apart from performance figures, the new engine has an immediate response. To give the vehicle AMG's trademark acceleration, the torque curve was carefully balanced: the peak torque 354 lb-ft at 4700 – 5000 rpm. With this configuration, the engineers in Affalterbach were able to achieve a power delivery similar to that of a naturally aspirated engine.

Intelligent engine design details

The new engine impresses with several intelligent design features. In comparison to the transversely installed four-cylinder of the 35-series models, the new engine found in the GLA 45 has been turned on its vertical axis by 180 degrees. As a result, the turbocharger and exhaust manifold are now positioned at the rear, with the intake system being positioned at the front. This configuration allows the flattest possible, aerodynamically advantageous front section design. With shorter distances and fewer diversions, both on the intake and the exhaust side, this new arrangement allows for improved air ducting.

The new twin-scroll turbocharger combines optimum responsiveness at low engine speeds with a high power in the upper rpm range. For the very first time, the shaft of the compressor and turbine wheel are mounted on anti-friction bearings, minimizing the amount of mechanical friction placed on the turbocharger. As a result, the turbocharger reaches its maximum speed of up to 169,000 rpm significantly faster. The electronically controlled wastegate (exhaust relief valve) allows the charge pressure to be precisely and flexibly controlled while optimizing responsiveness, especially when accelerating from partial load.

Two-stage fuel injection for optimized performance

For the first time, the new high-performance four-cylinder engine is complemented by two-stage fuel injection. In the first stage, precisely operating piezo injectors supply fuel to the combustion chambers at a pressure of up to 200 bar. This is a multiple process at times, and is controlled by the engine management system. In the second stage there is additional intake manifold injection using solenoid valves. This is needed to achieve the engine's high specific output. The electronically controlled fuel supply has an operating pressure of 6.7 bar.

Sophisticated cooling system for the engine, turbocharger and charge air

The high power output of the GLA 45 requires an intelligent cooling system. This system is designed in a way that allows for the cylinder head and crankcase to be cooled at different temperature levels. This innovative design allows a cold cylinder head for maximum output with efficient ignition timing, and a warm crankcase to reduce in-engine friction. Cooling of the cylinder head is ensured by a mechanical water pump, while cooling of the crankcase is via a second, electrically driven high-performance water pump. After a cold start, this pump remains passive until the engine has warmed up. In operation it is regulated by the engine control unit so that the crankcase is always cooled according to need.

Digital and smart assembly by hand: "One Man, One Engine"

The new engine is entirely hand built. An entirely new production line was constructed in the Affalterbach AMG engine production facility, where Mercedes-AMG has raised the "One Man, One Engine" principle, and Industry 4.0 processes to an innovative level, reflecting the latest findings in ergonomics, material flows, quality assurance, efficiency, and most importantly, sustainability. To implement Industry 4.0, AMG's hand assembly operation followed the vision of "smart production". This vision places an emphasis on high flexibility, transparency and high efficiency. It safeguards the quality of the engines, and improves production processes using innovative technologies.

Agile AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission

The 8-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8g dual-clutch transmission is specially tuned to the requirements of the 4 cylinder engine of the new GLA 45. Development of the hardware and software has made it possible to optimize the reaction times even further. The gear ratios have been configured so that the driver experiences spontaneous acceleration in all speed ranges, fast shifting, and optimum connections when upshifting. Depending on the driving mode selected in the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT, the driver receives a specific drive configuration with different accelerator and gearshift characteristics.

The standard RACE-START function allows maximum acceleration from stationary and provides, together with the drive sound, partial ignition interruption when changing up a gear, and the automatic double-declutching function when changing down. Neither is efficiency neglected: in "Comfort" mode the ECO start/stop function is active; the "gliding" function can be selected in the "Individual" driving mode.

AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive with AMG TORQUE CONTROL

The extremely dynamic driving experience of the new GLA 45 is further supported by the fully variable –all wheel drive. Included as standard, the all-wheel drive system utilizes AMG TORQUE CONTROL in the new rear axle differential, which has two electronically controlled multi-disc clutches, each of which is connected to a rear axle drive shaft. In this set up, power is not only variably distributed between the front and rear wheels, but is also selectively distributed between the left and right rear wheels. The result is consistently optimum traction, even in adverse road conditions, or during extreme cornering manoeuvres. 

Highly responsive electromechanical control

The control of drive torque to the front and rear axle, and between the two rear wheels is electromechanical. The influencing factors for torque distribution are not only the driving speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, or steering angle, but also the difference in rotational speed between the individual wheels, the gear selection and the accelerator position. The main advantages of electromechanical control over an electrohydraulic system relate to more refined driving dynamics – primarily due to the significantly faster response and speed-independent actuation of the discs over the entire adjustment range.

The characteristics of the all-wheel drive control are dependent on the driving mode and the AMG DYNAMICS setting. In "Basic" and "Advanced", the 4MATIC system is in "Comfort" mode. In "Pro" and "Master" (included in the optional AMG Track Package) the 4MATIC system switches to "Sport" mode, for an even more agile handling response and a higher critical limit threshold. All components of the suspension have been thoroughly revised, resulting in a higher lateral acceleration, and improved vehicle control at the limits.

Optimized suspension components for dynamic handling

The new AMG suspension provides the basis for high directional stability and highly dynamic cornering characteristics with low body roll. At the same time, comfort has been improved compared with the previous GLA 45. The longitudinal and transverse dynamics are ideally coordinated. All suspension components have been thoroughly revised in order to achieve a higher maximum lateral acceleration together with easy vehicle control at the limits.

A McPherson strut design is used at the front axle. Suspension is taken care of by one transverse control arm below the wheel centre, one suspension strut, and one tie rod respectively. The special axle geometry reduces torque steer for exceptional comfort and agile handling. The new aluminum wishbone reduces the unsprung masses, and enables a more sensitive response from the springs. The brake callipers of the front axle are radially bolted – a technology from motorsport that brings added stability. The front axle carrier is rigidly attached and thus additionally stiffens the front section.

Similarly, the 4-link rear suspension is rigidly connected to the body via a rear axle carrier, and therefore very torsionally strong. There are three transverse control arms and one trailing arm plus specific bearings per rear wheel.

Adaptive damping, AMG RIDE CONTROL with three modes

The adaptive damping system AMG RIDE CONTROL, presents the driver with the choice of three different suspension characteristics. The spectrum ranges from comfort-oriented to sporty and dynamic. The system operates automatically, adapting the damping forces for each wheel according to the driving situation and road conditions. This happens within milliseconds and is infinitely variable, with a wide spread of damping characteristics. The result is that ride comfort and agility are enhanced in equal measure.

Robust high-performance brake system

The high-performance brake system of ensures fade-resistant deceleration and short braking distances. On the GLA 45, the 4-piston monobloc fixed front callipers act on 350 x 34 millimetre brake discs, while at the rear, 1-piston floating callipers act on 330 x 22 millimetre brake discs. The discs are internally ventilated and perforated to better dissipate heat and prevent brake fading, even with extreme use. The grey-painted brake callipers have white AMG lettering.

When equipped with the optional AMG Track Package, the GLA 45 utilizes an even larger brake system equipped with 6-piston fixed callipers and 360 x 36 millimetre brake discs at the front. In this case the brake callipers are painted red and feature a black AMG logo.

A wide spread of drive programs

The GLA 45 features the five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT programs of "Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport+", and "Individual". The additional "RACE" function is included in the optional AMG Track package. These programs allow for a wide spread of vehicle characteristics, from comfortable to highly dynamic. The following parameters are modified when AMG DYNAMIC SELECT is toggled:

• Powertrain: Accelerator pedal characteristic, shift times and shift timing in the variants Reduced, Moderate, Sport or Dynamic
• AMG DYNAMICS: Agility functions such as all-wheel control, steering characteristics and ESP^® functions in Basic, Advanced, Pro or Master variants (included in the optional Track package)
• Suspension: in Comfort, Sport, Sport+
• Exhaust system: sound and nature of the sound functions, Balanced or Powerful

AMG DYNAMICS for enhanced agility and high stability

As a new feature in the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs, the new GLA 45 comes with AMG DYNAMICS. This integrated agility control facility extends the stabilizing functions of ESP^® with the agility-enhancing intervention of the all-wheel-drive control, steering characteristics and additional ESP^® functions. When cornering at speed, for example, brief braking intervention at the inner rear wheel generates a defined yawing motion around the vertical axis for responsive and precise entry into the bend.

The spectrum ranges from extremely stable to highly dynamic. On the multimedia display, when a drive program is selected, the new AMG DYNAMICS symbol is displayed together with the corresponding additional information.

• "Basic" is assigned to the "Slippery" and "Comfort" drive programs. In this case, the vehicle exhibits very stable handling with a high level of yaw damping.
• "Advanced" is activated in "Sport" mode. The 45-series models remain neutrally balanced. The lower yaw damping, lower steering angle requirement and enhanced agility support dynamic manoeuvres such as driving on winding country roads.
• "Pro" belongs to the "Sport+" program. In "Pro" the driver receives even more assistance for dynamic driving manoeuvres, while agility and feedback from the road when cornering are further enhanced.
• "Master" is linked to the "RACE" driving mode (included in the optional AMG Track Package). "Master" mode is aimed at drivers who want to experience dynamism and the driving enjoyment of closed-off circuits. "Master" offers a vehicle balance with slight oversteer, a low steering angle requirement and more agile steering. In this way, "Master" ensures maximum agility and fully exploits the dynamic potential. To activate "Master" mode, the driver must use the separate button in the centre console to switch the ESP^® to ESP^® SPORT Handling Mode or ESP^® OFF.
• In the "Individual" drive program, the driver can set the AMG DYNAMICS levels "Basic", "Advanced", "Pro" and "Master" themselves. The setting can also be directly selected using the AMG DRIVE UNIT steering-wheel buttons.

Reinforced body shell

The AMG developers extensively reinforced the body shell of the new GLA 45, as it provides the basis for precise self-steering characteristics, and track and camber stability when driving at high speeds. A lightweight aluminum plate bolted underneath the engine, increases the torsional rigidity at the vehicle's front end. In addition, diagonal struts at the front and rear of the underbody further improve rigidity. The result: significantly reduced longitudinal and lateral torsional movement of the body shell and thus less rolling and pitching motion during cornering, braking and load changes.

Athletic and muscular exterior

The exterior of the new GLA 45 features plenty of emotional appeal: a long hood with prominent powerdomes, compact greenhouse, and muscular shoulders over the wheel arches honour the vehicle's sports car genes. The AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical slats identifies the newcomer as a member of the AMG Performance family. Standard LED High Performance headlamps illuminate the road ahead. The car's strong presence is also enhanced by the flared wheel arches of its front fenders and by the large air intakes with silver chrome inserts. The front splitter in silver chrome serves to optimize airflow and aerodynamic performance.

When viewed from the side, the aerodynamically optimized 19-inch light-alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design and the door panels with inserts in silver chrome or high-gloss black (optional) are particularly striking. As an option, this compact Performance SUV can also be fitted with 21-inch light-alloy wheels.

The rear view is characterized by two round twin tailpipes (82 mm diameter) and the wide rear apron. The impression of width at the rear is further emphasized by slim two-piece rear light clusters. The diffuser with four vertical fins contributes to the enhanced aerodynamic performance. The airflow break-away edge in the body color on the roof spoiler rounds off the profile to the rear.

The interior: a close alliance between driver and machine

Featuring sporty appointments and the snappy MBUX infotainment system, the high-quality interior of the new GLA 45 creates a close, personal alliance between driver and machine. The driver and front passenger are seated in an active position on contoured sport seats with firm lateral support. AMG Performance seats may be ordered as an option. The standard upholstery in a combination of black ARTICO man-made leather and DINAMICA microfibre is timeless, and creates typical AMG highlights with double topstitching in red.  There is also an optional choice of four different leather upholsteries.

The centre console in piano-lacquer look with a touchpad as standard has a further control array with additional switches for controlling the 3-stage ESP^®, the manual transmission mode, the adaptive damping system AMG RIDE CONTROL and the optional AMG Real Performance Sound.

The MBUX infotainment system: featuring AMG-specific displays

The combination of sporty design and sophisticated details is also featured in the MBUX infotainment system with its innovative operating and display concept. MBUX creates an even closer connection between the vehicle, driver and passengers. Emotively appealing presentations underline the clear control structure and feature brilliant maximum-resolution 3D graphics. Visually, the two displays under one shared glass cover blend into a Widescreen Cockpit and act as a central element that emphasizes the horizontal orientation of the interior design.

The customer can choose between the three AMG display styles of "Classic", "Sport" and "Supersport" for the instrument cluster. The "Supersport" mode is particularly striking with a central, round rev counter and additional information presented in the form of bars to the left and right of the rev counter: with a three-dimensional perspective, they reach far into the background to an artificial horizon. Via the AMG menu, the driver can call up various special displays such as gear speed indicator, Warm-up, Set-up, G-Meter, RACETIMER and Engine Data. With individual AMG displays such as visualization of the driving modes or telemetry data, the touchscreen multimedia display underlines the dynamic configuration.

The trailblazing voice control activated with the words "Hey Mercedes" is also on board. Thanks to artificial intelligence, MBUX recognizes and understands nearly all sentences from the fields of infotainment and vehicle operation, even if they are expressed indirectly.

The optionally available AMG Performance steering wheel with steering-wheel buttons

A perfect symbiosis between the driver and vehicle is ensured by the AMG Performance steering wheel. The steering wheel in nappa leather, features a flattened wheel rim, perforated grip areas, and is available in red or black topstitching. The galvanized steering wheel shift paddles allow for an even sportier driving style, with manual shift operations.

When ordered with the AMG Driver's Package, the GLA 45's AMG Performance steering wheel comes equipped with AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons, which allows for AMG drive programs and other AMG functions to be directly controlled from the steering wheel.

Data logger for use on the race track: AMG TRACK PACE

AMG TRACK PACE, the virtual race engineer, is optionally available on the new GLA 45. The software is part of the MBUX infotainment system, and when navigating a race circuit it continuously monitors more than 80 vehicle-specific data points (e.g. speed, acceleration). It displays lap and sector times, as well as the respective difference from a reference time. Specific display elements are shown in green or red, and the driver is able to see at a glance whether they are faster or slower than their best time.

After putting in some fast laps, the driver can use the data to analyze and improve their driving skills. In addition, acceleration and deceleration values (e.g. 0-100 km/h, ¼ mile, 100-0 km/h) can be measured and saved. Thanks to a newly developed algorithm which determines the vehicle position as precisely as possible, AMG TRACK PACE detects when a circuit has been left, or if it has been shortened. This is done using GPS data as well as the sensors available in the vehicle (acceleration, gyroscope, steering angle, wheel speeds).

The data is shown on the multimedia display, in the instrument cluster, and on the optional head-up display. Well-known race tracks such as the Nürburgring or Spa Francorchamps, are already stored. Furthermore, it is also possible to record your own circuits. The map display can be switched from 2D to 3D and updated online.

The MBUX Augmented Reality function also allows the ideal line of a stored race track to be displayed on the multimedia display or optional head-up display, allowing the driver to improve lap times with a virtual instructor on board.

Sound and audio experience

The AMG exhaust system adds to the sporty yet versatile character of the new GLA 45. Depending on the chosen drive program, the sound signature ranges from harmonious and discreet (in the programs Slippery, Comfort and Sport) to emotive and sporty (in Sport+ and RACE). The sound characteristics are controlled by an exhaust gas flap, and are dependent on engine speed and load. AMG Real Performance Sound is available as an option. With this technology, the sound designers at AMG have been able to capture the actual engine sound, using a specially developed sensor, and to channel this into the interior in order to be able to offer an even more thrilling audio experience.

Technical data at a glance

*electronically limited

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About Mercedes-Benz Canada
Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing, and service of Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG passenger vehicles and Mercedes-Benz Vans. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. employs approximately 1,200 people in 14 locations across Canada. Through a nationwide network of seven Mercedes-Benz own retail operations and 52 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 46,090 vehicles in 2019. This positioned Mercedes-Benz as the top luxury manufacturer in Canada for the sixth consecutive year.

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