The Mercedes-AMG A45 already offers a stunning amount of performance from a package that doesn’t necessarily imply it if it wasn’t for the lashings of exterior trim puffed-up panels and red contrasts everywhere.
With its 2.0-litre four-cylinder M133 engine turbocharged to a lofty 280kW and 475Nm distributed to all four wheels, arguing that the current model is lacking power would be an exercise in isolation.
However, a recent report from Autocar UK suggests that the AMG, ever the power-fiend, is planning to throw yet more grunt at the Merc hatch to rival its German brethren – Audi with the RS3 and BMW with the M2. Apparently.
We’d dispute the M2 connection since they look, sound and handle just as competently but also completely differently as well as aimed at a different type of buyer. However, the RS3 has always been in AMG’s sights, also being a hatchback with similar power outputs and all-wheel drive.
The report says that the heavily reworked engine will be able to have a specific output of over 149kW per litre, or beyond 300kW. However, the RS3’s 5-cylinder engines does sound incredible next to the rather loud but uninspiring growl of the Mercedes four pot.
The next A45 will have the Audi beat in terms of out-and-out acceleration, particularly with that power bump. AMG is said to be targeting a 4.0 second sprint time to 100km/h from rest. This will be achieved, apparently, through an engine remapping as well as tweaks to the car’s four-wheel drive system, electric differential and closer gear ratios.
As with the current A45, the uprated engine will be mated to a 9-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission, a gearbox that’s slated to debut in the rest of the revised A-Class come late 2018.
Mercedes-Benz is said to be building the new A-Class with a higher percentage of aluminium components to compensate for the next-generation’s slightly larger dimensions while retaining a very similar kerb weight.
For more on Mercedes-Benz and AMG vehicles, including pricing and specifications, check out our Showroom.
