Autoblog Unplugged: 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG

Fri, Feb 6 2015

Mercedes-Benz's AMG division entered new territory in late 2013 with the launch of the CLA45, an all-wheel-drive sedan (with front-wheel-drive underpinnings) motivated by a turbocharged, four-cylinder engine. But it wasn't any old turbo-four – the boosted 2.0-liter powerplant claimed the title of most powerful production four-cylinder engine. From behind the wheel, we loved its turbo-heavy antics and steer-it-with-the-throttle dynamics.

Now, Mercedes offers the GLA-Class Â– a small crossover based on that CLA architecture. And rather than just leave it alone in GLA250 guise, the AMG folks created the tiny-tough GLA45 high-riding hatch you see here. It's got the same 355-horsepower, 332-pound-feet turbo-four underhood, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and a unique sound that's unlike anything you might expect from a small CUV.

That's why we took to some of our favorite backroads to capture another Autoblog Unplugged video with the GLA45. There's no talking, no music, no rizzle-razzle Â– just shots of the GLA45 driving down our favorite winding roads with nothing but the sweet, throaty sounds of the AMG powerplant. Good luck holding back your giggles when you hear the braaap of a quick gear-change.

Mercedes-Benz
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mercedes gla-class
mercedes gla45 amg

By Steven J. Ewing