When Mercedes-Benz Malaysia introduced four updated A-Class models back in June, I remember being drawn to one particular variant: the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+. Better yet, I got to track test the car on the Sepang circuit alongside a professional race driver during the launch event.
Suffice to say, the experience gave me an adrenaline rush that left me wanting more time with the performance hatchback. So when the opportunity presented itself, I took it for a spin over a few days to see how it fares on the streets. Based on my experience, here are seven reasons why the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ offers a “thrill for everyday”.
#1 Just look at that body!
Despite having been acquainted with the car mere weeks before, I was just as impressed with the A 45 S’s exterior when I set my eyes on it for the second time up close. Sporty and sleek, the car’s revised front headlamps, AMG-specific radiator grille and new AMG emblem instantly make an impression on the road. The new 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels and red brake callipers further highlight its athletic appeal. Whether you’re driving around the city or on a road trip, this hot hatch is sure to steal looks!
The model also comes in a AMG Street Style Edition, which features a MANUFAKTUR mountain grey MAGNO base paint that is undeniably sexy. Completed with fluorescent orange highlights juxtaposed against edition-specific black and matte anthracite decals, alongside 19-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels, it simply commands attention with its race-style aesthetic.
Paying homage to the ‘One Man, One Engine’ philosophy of Mercedes-AMG, both variants feature a unique plaque on the hood—bearing the signature of the engineer who hand-assembled the engine. For more styling options, the A 45 S also comes with the AMG Aerodynamics Package and AMG Night Package. On the other hand, the AMG Street Style Edition is fitted with the eye-catching AMG Night Package II.
#2 A sporty cabin for performers
Likewise, the striking interiors of the A 45 S promise to excite the senses. The cabin is fitted with ARTICO man-made leather upholstery and MICROCUT microfibre AMG in black with Aluminium AMG Design trim elements in black / silver to ensure a comfortable yet dynamic ride. Meanwhile, the AMG Street Style Edition gets exclusive orange topstitching paired with AMG trim in dark / orange Street Style Edition aluminium and distinctive labels on the headrest and floor mats.
Further, the panoramic sliding sunroof fills the cabin with natural sunlight, whilst AMG illuminated door sills and 64-colour ambient lighting accentuate the model’s unmistakably sporty Mercedes-AMG design in low-light conditions. Altogether, these elements create the right atmosphere for the right moment to fuel an emotive drive—day or night.
#3 Balancing support and driving pleasure
True to its racing character, the AMG Performance seats provide an active driving position with firm lateral support. This ensures minimal body roll as I zip through twists, turns and tight corners—even my passengers can attest to that. With AMG DYNAMIC SELECT on the new AMG Performance steering wheel, I can also easily switch between Comfort, Sports and Sports Plus modes to achieve the desired balance of support and driving pleasure for different trips. For instance, Comfort mode is ideal for daily driving; whereas the Sports modes add that sense of exhilaration for longer road trips.
#4 It’s giving AMG Real Performance Sound
One of the perks of driving a performance car is the engine sound—and the A 45 S delivers my definition of ASMR. Equipped with AMG Real Performance Sound, drivers can determine how the turbo engine sounds in the cabin. At the touch of a button on the bottom left of the updated steering wheel—which features a new touch-control panel—it can be switched from sporty yet subtle (balanced) to “motor-sporty” and emotional (powerful).
#5 Built for driving performance
Of course, I grabbed every chance I could to put the pedal to the metal to experience the car’s 3.9-second century sprint. This is powered by a four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 421 hp and 500 Nm of torque. Obviously, I didn’t get anywhere near the top speed of 270 km/h, but I can tell you, this car is fast. If you have a need for speed like I do, you’re absolutely in for a thrill. Thankfully, the head-up display gives me a direct view of all the key information on the windscreen, so I can focus on the road and fully enjoy the ride.
#6 Bonus points for sound, display and connectivity
As for the infotainment system, the A 45 S now benefits from the latest MBUX generation (NTG7). The 10.25-inch all-digital instrument display features a new hallmark AMG screen design and supports Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ via Bluetooth®. Coupled with the Burmester® surround sound system, the driving experience is made all the more enjoyable and seamless. Plus, I appreciate being able to see and access my Waze navigation, Spotify playlist and recently used apps all in one screen for convenience.
Better yet, with MBUX Interior Assistant, the car intuitively responds to my gestures and voice commands. A simple “Hey Mercedes” can get the windows down, lights on or temperature changed without pressing a button. It’s that convenient.
On top of a wireless charging system, the A 45 S also comes equipped with USB Package Plus, featuring four additional ports to charge mobile devices. Needless to say, I didn’t have to worry about staying charged and connected all day while rushing from one event to another.
#7 It has the whole package
At the end of the day, the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ is a car that makes a statement with its strikingly sporty aesthetic, pure driving performance and seamless infotainment and connectivity. If you’re looking for the complete package in the compact hatchback class, then this is the ultimate ride to drive home.
The Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ is priced at RM509,888 (Standard Specification). For more information, visit www.mercedes-benz.com.my/A-Class.
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