Auto Review by Veeno Dewan
The sleek, compact, stylish coupe inspired GLA hatchback from Mercedes-AMG gets a slight – tasteful makeover for the second generation 2021 model. These include a more powerful engine, a restyled front and rear bumper, and a front grille. We trested the $60,500 GLA 45 with the AMG massaged 2.L motor l developing a crazy 382 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque resulting in a zero-to-100 km/h run in 4.4 seconds!
The power is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The six different drive modes can alter the throttle, traction control, suspension, steering feel, and exhaust volume. Added on are extra MG badges, a large rear , and a front splitter. Inside, the seats are more heavily bolstered, with red stitching and faux suede.
Small exterior changes add to slightly better aerodynamics. Our tester – a top line GLA 45 AMG 4MATIC offers a scintillating 382-hp, thanks to the AMG tuning house magic. A seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8Gdual-clutch transmission is teamed with a Four- Wheel Drive for maximum grip.
The Premium package offers the fabulous 10.25-inch digital splay units and excellent “Hey, Mercedes” MBUX voice activated infotainment system, that via voice command can do things like turn on the heated steering wheel and seats, change radio stations or play a certain song, or direct you to the nearest restaurant or gas station The seats are supportive and the chunky steering wheel design is stylish, and feels good to the hands
High points include stability and a smooth linear feed of turbo-charged power. The GLA 45 with its AMG massaged 2.0-liter inline-four offers a retuned exhaust, camshaft, and tweaked ECU, to enable a massive 382 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This means fast, solid acceleration. Drivers can opt for letting the dual-clutch seven- speed automatic transmission do the work or use the paddle shifters that rev-match on downshifts. Straight line acceleration is fast and satisfying, and the GLA 45 takes corners with aplomb.
The 2021 Mercedes-AMG 45 4MATIC is a rather expensive piece of kit for those who simply can’t do without the AMG performance extras to go with the big three-pointed star up front. Fast, sporty, superbly engineered and built, the GLA 45 AMG comes highly recommended.
2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC SUV: Price as tested with options: $73,500
More info at www.mercedesbenz.ca
