(from Mercedes-Benz
Press Release) The Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG: Driving Performance
for the new generation
Affalterbach � The A 45 AMG sees Mercedes-AMG embarking on a new era. For the first time in the company's history extending back over more than 45 years, Mercedes-Benz's performance brand is offering a fascinating high-performance vehicle in the compact class. The A 45 AMG is representative of the "AMG Performance 50" strategy for the future, which is to run up to the 50th birthday of Mercedes-AMG GmbH in 2017. With a maximum output of 265 kW (360 hp) and up to 450 Newton metres of torque, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine is the most powerful series production four-cylinder engine in the world. The sensational power density of 133 kW (181 hp) outstrips even the most powerful super sports cars. At the same time, the engine also boasts supreme efficiency and complies with the EU6 emissions standard. The A 45 AMG also leads its segment in terms of fuel consumption, running on 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres in NEDC combined mode. These credentials indicate that a further high-performing member of the BlueDIRECT family is now taking to the road. The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive onboard the A 45 AMG sets new standards in the car's segment.
Affalterbach � The A 45 AMG sees Mercedes-AMG embarking on a new era. For the first time in the company's history extending back over more than 45 years, Mercedes-Benz's performance brand is offering a fascinating high-performance vehicle in the compact class. The A 45 AMG is representative of the "AMG Performance 50" strategy for the future, which is to run up to the 50th birthday of Mercedes-AMG GmbH in 2017. With a maximum output of 265 kW (360 hp) and up to 450 Newton metres of torque, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine is the most powerful series production four-cylinder engine in the world. The sensational power density of 133 kW (181 hp) outstrips even the most powerful super sports cars. At the same time, the engine also boasts supreme efficiency and complies with the EU6 emissions standard. The A 45 AMG also leads its segment in terms of fuel consumption, running on 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres in NEDC combined mode. These credentials indicate that a further high-performing member of the BlueDIRECT family is now taking to the road. The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive onboard the A 45 AMG sets new standards in the car's segment.
The substance of the new
Mercedes-Benz vehicle architecture for front- and all-wheel drive
provides the perfect basis for the A 45 AMG and at least two other
high-performance premium automobiles from Affalterbach.In designing
and developing the A 45 AMG, the experts at AMG have drawn on the
company's decades of experience in motorsport and the production of
powerful, high-performance vehicles. As such, the A 45 AMG will
inherit the corporate DNA and embody the AMG brand claim "Driving
Performance" to perfection: a fascinatingly sporty driving
experience combined with impressive craftsmanship and pronounced
individuality.
"The A 45 AMG will
enable Mercedes-AMG to appeal to new customers and tap new markets,"
observes Ola K�llenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. We are adding
an extremely attractive model with exceptional performance data to
our range of unique high-performance automobiles."
"With the new A 45 AMG we have well and truly achieved our aim of developing the most dynamic, powerful and efficient four-cylinder series production car," comments Tobias Moers, Head of Overall Vehicle Development and Board Member of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.With its impressive high-tech package and the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the A 45 AMG is a thoroughbred AMG through and through."
"With the new A 45 AMG we have well and truly achieved our aim of developing the most dynamic, powerful and efficient four-cylinder series production car," comments Tobias Moers, Head of Overall Vehicle Development and Board Member of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.With its impressive high-tech package and the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the A 45 AMG is a thoroughbred AMG through and through."
Dynamic and individual vehicle for
new target group
Spanning the age range
from 30 to mid-40, the target group is younger than the AMG
clientele to date. In successful careers and with an independent
frame of mind, these customers seek a dynamic and individual
vehicle.They wish to lend expression to their style- and
trend-oriented way of life with a car from a recognised
high-performance brand. The A 45 AMG provides the predominantly
urban target group with an agile high-performance vehicle. Mercedes-AMG
accommodates their tech-savvy and individual outlook on life with an
extremely broad selection of optional equipment and appointments,
colours and materials.
Typically AMG: the most powerful
series production four-cylinder engine in the world
Two figures show that
the A 45 AMG holds pole position in its displacement segment:the
newly developed AMG 2.0-litre turbo engine is the most powerful
series production four-cylinder turbo engine in the world. A maximum
output of 265 kW (360 hp) and up to 450 Newton metres of torque are
unmatched by any other mass-produced turbocharged four-cylinder
engine worldwide. The power density of 133 kW (181 hp) is also
absolutely unrivalled. In this discipline, the new AMG
high-performance turbo engine even outstrips the most powerful super
sports cars.
The high power and
torque output and the combination with the performance-oriented AMG
4MATIC all-wheel drive as standard lead to extremely dynamic
performance: the A 45 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6
seconds, while its top speed stands at 250 km/h (electronically
limited). The specially developed AMG engine is also a model of
efficiency � the A 45 AMG also leads its segment on this front, with
fuel consumption of 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres in NEDC combined
mode. This is accompanied by particularly low exhaust emissions: the
A 45 AMG already complies with the EU6 emissions standard which is
not scheduled to enter into force until 2015, combined with the
limit for the particle count per kilometre of 6 x 1011 which will be
mandatory from 2017.
The basis for these impressive figures is provided by the high-tech package which has been put together by Mercedes-AMG. As a high-performance engine belonging to the BlueDIRECT family, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine features spray-guided direct petrol injection via piezo injectors positioned centrally in the four combustion chambers. The combination of multiple fuel injection and multiple spark ignition improves fuel utilisation and increases thermodynamic efficiency substantially, leading to lower exhaust emissions. Other highlights include the gravity-die sandcast all-aluminium crankcase, weight-optimised crank assembly with forged steel crankshaft and forged pistons with friction-optimised piston rings, NANOSLIDE cylinder wall technology, air-water charge air cooling, generator management and ECO start/stop function.
The basis for these impressive figures is provided by the high-tech package which has been put together by Mercedes-AMG. As a high-performance engine belonging to the BlueDIRECT family, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine features spray-guided direct petrol injection via piezo injectors positioned centrally in the four combustion chambers. The combination of multiple fuel injection and multiple spark ignition improves fuel utilisation and increases thermodynamic efficiency substantially, leading to lower exhaust emissions. Other highlights include the gravity-die sandcast all-aluminium crankcase, weight-optimised crank assembly with forged steel crankshaft and forged pistons with friction-optimised piston rings, NANOSLIDE cylinder wall technology, air-water charge air cooling, generator management and ECO start/stop function.
Twin-scroll turbocharger and AMG
sports exhaust system with exhaust flap
Mercedes-AMG addresses
the essential challenges concerning the response of
small-displacement turbo engines by means of a twin-scroll
turbocharger, maximum derestriction of the exhaust system and an
innovative injection strategy. The twin-scroll technology provides
for a more spontaneous build-up of charge pressure, making effective
use of exhaust gas back pressure, exhaust gas temperature and
exhaust gas impulse. This results in a swifter build-up of torque
right from the lower rev range. As a positive side-effect, the
twin-scroll technology also benefits fuel consumption and exhaust
emissions. At a maximum charge pressure of 1.8 bar, the AMG
2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine also leads the field in this
respect.
The AMG sports exhaust
system features large pipe cross-sections and an automatically
controlled exhaust flap. This technology, which is familiar from the
SLK 55 AMG, reconciles the two apparently conflicting aims of
tangible dynamism and hallmark Mercedes comfort on long journeys.
The flap is continuously adjusted by map control according to the
power called up by the driver, load status and engine speed. The two
striking tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system emit a
fascinating, full engine sound which is particularly impressive
during powerful acceleration.
An AMG Performance
exhaust system with exhaust flap and featuring a dedicated tailpipe
trim design is optionally available for the A 45 AMG. This provides
for an even more emotional and striking engine sound when the
throttle is open and during gear shifting. The double-declutching
function during downshifting and the interruption of ignition and
injection during upshifting under full load produce a particularly
throaty sound with the AMG Performance exhaust system and create a
level of emotionality which is otherwise the reserve of engines with
more than 4 cylinders.
High-performance cooling system
with components from the SLS AMG
The high driving
dynamics of the A 45 AMG call for a highly effective cooling system.
On the basis of the components belonging to the SLS AMG, a
low-temperature circuit is additionally deployed for air-water
charge air cooling of the four-cylinder turbo engine. The large
cooler section at the front level of the cooling module is
supplemented by an additional cooler in the wheel arch. Together
with the charge air cooler which is connected in series, a
high-performance electric pump ensures the required flow through the
water coolers located behind the large intake ports. This provides
for ideal cooling of the highly compressed charge air, thereby
contributing towards optimum engine performance.
Cooling of the transmission oil is integrated in the water cooling circuit for the engine. The water cooler positioned behind the front apron is supported by the heat exchanger which is fitted directly on the transmission and supplied with cooling water as required by means of an auxiliary pump.
Cooling of the transmission oil is integrated in the water cooling circuit for the engine. The water cooler positioned behind the front apron is supported by the heat exchanger which is fitted directly on the transmission and supplied with cooling water as required by means of an auxiliary pump.
Engine production � a tradition of
hand-built excellence
Similarly to all eight-
and twelve-cylinder engines, the new AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder
turbo engine is also hand-built according to the traditional AMG
philosophy of "one man, one engine". An exclusive assembly line has
been set up for the new AMG engine at the Mercedes-Benz engine
production plant in K�lleda � where all BlueDIRECT four-cylinder
engines are built for the A- and B-Class models. A characteristic
feature of the "one man, one engine" production process is the AMG
engine plate bearing the signature of the responsible engine fitter.
Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative
production quality, the AMG engine plate also attests to the
peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz's high-performance brand.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports
transmission
Dual clutch transmission
and all-wheel drive � the drive package onboard the new A 45 AMG is
a demonstration of high-end engineering prowess.The AMG SPEEDSHIFT
DCT 7-speed sports transmission is directly flange-mounted on the
transversely installed AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine. Key
software modules have been adopted from the SLS AMG super sports car
with its inspirational power transmission concept. The dual clutch
transmission of the A45 features seven gears, three driving
programmes, a double-declutching function and RACE START for optimum
acceleration. The strengths of the AMG DCT sports transmission
include spontaneous gear shifting without any interruption in
tractive power, a tailor-made control strategy, extremely smooth and
easy gear shifting and a high level of efficiency. Reinforced gear
wheels provide for maximum stability. Synchroniser rings with
carbon-fibre friction linings improve durability while also
optimising the response time during manual gear-changing � the ideal
basis for ambitious laps on cordoned-off race tracks.
"Momentary M mode" for even
greater dynamism and driving enjoyment
Another special feature
designed to enhance dynamic performance and driving enjoyment is
so-called "Momentary M mode". In C and S mode, this enables the
driver to activate manual mode ("M") without having to remove a hand
from the steering wheel, by pressing the "up" or "down" shift paddle
once. In Momentary M mode the driver experiences the dynamism and
performance of gear-shifting in manual mode in all of the automatic
driving programmes, with automatic up- and down-shifting into the
bargain. This allows the driver to devote his full attention to the
vehicle's impressive performance.
The shift times in
manual mode "M" and in Sport mode "S" are similarly sporty in
character to those of the SLS AMG GT super sports car.Briefly and
precisely interrupting ignition and injection under full load leads
to even faster gearshifts with a more emotional sound than ever. In
"C" mode (Controlled Efficiency), tangibly soft transmission and
engine characteristics support a fuel-efficient and comfort-oriented
driving style. The ECO start/stop function is also active in "C"
mode.
Performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC
all-wheel drive
The new A 45 AMG comes
with variable, performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive as
standard. In developing this all-wheel drive, the focus firmly was
on performance and dynamism. The power flux to the rear powertrain
is provided by a compact power take-off unit (PTU) which is fully
integrated in the 7-speed sports transmission. It does not possess
an oil circuit of its own. Instead, it is supplied with lubricant
from the oil circuit of the sports transmission . This configuration
gives rise to substantial weight advantages in comparison to rival
systems which branch off power by means of an add-on component with
its own oil circuit. Together with the friction-minimised tapered
roller bearings, the PTU achieves an excellent level of efficiency.
As an additional bonus, the system weight of the new AMG 4MATIC
all-wheel drive is up to 25 percent lighter than the all-wheel drive
versions offered by the competition.
A two-part propeller
shaft transfers the power from the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo
engine to the rear axle. In the interests of favourable weight
distribution, an electrohydraulically controlled multi-disc clutch
is integrated with the rear axle differential. The multi-disc clutch
immediately detects slip at the front axle. A hydraulic pump
instantaneously presses the discs together and channels the engine
torque to the rear wheels as necessary. All this takes place
virtually without the driver noticing. To enable particularly fast
response, the pump is always active and does not require to be
started up each time it is needed, such as is customary with other
systems. Power distribution is fully variable: in normal driving,
the A 45 AMG uses front-wheel drive in the interests of optimum
efficiency. When the driving dynamics so require, the variable AMG
4MATIC all-wheel drive splits the torque between front and rear axle
up to a ratio of 50 : 50 percent. The variables influencing the
power distribution ratio are vehicle speed, lateral and longitudinal
acceleration, steering angle, speed difference between the
individual wheels, selected gear and accelerator position.
3-stage ESP� with ESP� Curve
Dynamic Assist
An exclusive feature is
the interaction of the AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive with the 3-stage
ESP� and the ESP� Curve Dynamic Assist. The three ESP� stages enable
the driver to vary the dynamics of the A 45 AMG according to his
individual wishes at the push of a button. The safety-oriented "ESP
ON" mode supports the driver in maintaining neutral handling
characteristics. The system initiates braking intervention on one or
more wheels and reduces the engine torque on detecting that the
operating conditions are becoming unstable.
Briefly pressing the
ESP� button activates "ESP SPORT Handling" mode. This dynamically
oriented driving mode applies appropriate control strategies for
later ESP� intervention and increased drive torque at the rear axle.
This means more fun at the wheel for drivers who are keen to exploit
the vehicle's dynamic potential. Pressing the ESP� button longer
activates "ESP OFF". In this mode, the ESP� functions are not
available. ESP OFF should only be used by experienced drivers on
cordoned-off race tracks. When the driver steps on the brake pedal
in the course of braking in "SPORT Handling" mode or "ESP OFF" mode,
all the safety functions of the ESP� system are restored.
ESP� Curve Dynamic Assist complements the ESP� system to perfection: during dynamic cornering, imperceptible braking intervention on the inside wheel gives rise to a defined yaw moment around the vertical axis, resulting in precise cornering by the A 45 AMG and ensuring that the vehicle remains under control at all times. Curve Dynamic Assist is adapted according to the selected ESP� mode. In "ESP SPORT Handling" mode and "ESP OFF" mode it supports the driver's wish for increased agility and driving dynamics. ESP� Curve Dynamic Assist is an additional function of the Electronic Stability Program which noticeably improves not only agility, but also active driving safety in critical conditions.
ESP� Curve Dynamic Assist complements the ESP� system to perfection: during dynamic cornering, imperceptible braking intervention on the inside wheel gives rise to a defined yaw moment around the vertical axis, resulting in precise cornering by the A 45 AMG and ensuring that the vehicle remains under control at all times. Curve Dynamic Assist is adapted according to the selected ESP� mode. In "ESP SPORT Handling" mode and "ESP OFF" mode it supports the driver's wish for increased agility and driving dynamics. ESP� Curve Dynamic Assist is an additional function of the Electronic Stability Program which noticeably improves not only agility, but also active driving safety in critical conditions.
AMG sports suspension with
independent front and rear axle
Like every AMG
high-performance automobile, the new A 45 AMG also incorporates
sophisticated axle technology. For enhanced driving dynamics, the
three-link front suspension is provided with stiffer steering
knuckles and totally new elastokinematics. Newly developed, more
rigid bearings are employed in the lower link plane. These provide
for more agile cornering properties and more precise and direct
feedback from the road surface. The more rigid bearings also lead to
higher camber stiffness, enabling higher cornering speeds. In
developing the complete front axle, great importance has been
attached to attaining the best possible traction in highly dynamic
driving.
The four-link rear axle
of the A 45 AMG is also a totally new development. In the course of
optimising the elastokinematics, the strut bearings were duly
adapted for maximum driving dynamics and control. The rear axle
carrier is provided with more rigid bearings for increased driving
stability; the subframe is rigidly connected to the body. The AMG
sports suspension with specifically tuned spring/damper units and
larger stabilisers provides for high lateral acceleration and a
reduced rolling tendency in fast double bends. The A 45 AMG comes as
standard with twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels, painted in titanium
grey with a high-sheen finish, fitted with 235/40 R 18 tyres.
AMG speed-sensitive sports
steering and AMG high-performance braking system
The electromechanical
Dual Pinion AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with AMG-specific,
speed-dependent power assistance and a constant steering ratio (14.5
: 1) enables high steering precision and agility. The electric motor
is installed in space-saving configuration on the steering gear. The
AMG high-performance braking system with ventilated and perforated
brake discs all round in size 350 x 32 millimetres at the front and
330 x 22 millimetres at the rear provides for spontaneous and
reliable deceleration.
Exterior design with sporty and
muscular highlights
Mercedes-AMG adds
emphatically sporty and muscular highlights to the emotional
exterior design of the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class sporting the new
dynamic style, sculptural character and feature lines on the sides.
These refinements ensure that the A 45 AMG looks the part as a
distinctive high-performance automobile � a genuine AMG through and
through.
The front view of the A
45 AMG is characterised by the AMG "twin blade" radiator grille and
the cross strut in the AMG front apron, both painted in matt
titanium grey. Striking black flics surround the large cooling air
intakes at the sides. An interesting side view is guaranteed by the
AMG light-alloy wheels in twin-spoke design and the side sill panels
with inserts in matt titanium grey. The "TURBO AMG" lettering on the
wing is exclusive to the top model of the A-Class. The AMG rear
apron with its highlighted air outlet openings at the sides features
a diffusor insert and trim in matt titanium grey. Two square,
chrome-plated tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system with
exhaust flap add an appropriately bold finishing touch.
Dynamic and exclusive interior
design and appointments
Inside, too, the new A
45 AMG boasts a heady mix of hallmark Mercedes-AMG dynamism and
exclusivity. The sports seats in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA
microfibre with red contrasting topstitching, the multifunction
steering wheel with shift paddles and the AMG DRIVE UNIT set new
standards in terms of both appearance and quality. The dashboard
trim comes in carbon-fibre look � a perfect match for the five air
vents in black/red, the red seat belts and the AMG door sill panels.
The AMG instrument cluster presents information by means of a
central colour display with the AMG main menu and the RACETIMER.
Numerous
individualisation options are available for the A 45 AMG (selection):
� AMG Aerodynamics package: AMG rear aerofoil, additional flics in front apron, larger front splitter
� AMG carbon-fibre exterior mirror housing
� AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package: front splitter, side sill panel inserts and trim on rear apron in genuine carbon fibre
� AMG rear aerofoil
� AMG Exclusive package
� AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels in 8 x 19 fitted with 235/35 R 19 tyres, in two variants: painted in titanium grey with high-sheen finish or in matt black with high-sheen rim flange
� AMG Night package: privacy glass, black anodised waistline trim strip, black tailpipe trims in chromed finish, radiator fins in silver chrome, high-gloss black painted finish for front splitter, exterior mirrors, side sill panel inserts and rear apron trim
� AMG Performance exhaust system incl. tailpipe trims in specific design
� AMG Performance suspension with tauter spring/damper tuning
� AMG Performance steering wheel and E-SELECT lever, electronic key with AMG emblem
� AMG Performance seats
� AMG wheel bolt covers in black with hub caps in central-locking look (for standard AMG light-alloy wheels only)
� Red painted callipers
Expressive and exclusive: the A 45
AMG "Edition 1"
The A 45 AMG "Edition 1"
stands apart both on a technical level and in terms of appearance.As
is familiar from the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake, the fully appointed
"Edition 1" model variant boasts an expressive composition of
exclusive exterior and interior details. The A 45 AMG "Edition 1"
focuses on the car's affinity to motorsport: the exterior paint
finish in cirrus white corresponds with the AMG sports stripes in
matt graphite grey on the bonnet, roof and sides. The red highlights
on the radiator grille, exterior mirrors and rear aerofoil leave a
lasting impression. These highlights combine to perfection with the
red painted brake callipers and the AMG multispoke light-alloy
wheels painted in matt black with special AMG hub caps in
central-locking look. The 8 x 19 light-alloy wheels are fitted
all-round with tyres in size 235/35 R 19. Both the AMG Night package
and the Aerodynamics package feature as standard for the "Edition
1", providing the perfect finishing touch to the model's
motorsport-inspired character.
Black and red dominate
the interior of the A 45 AMG "Edition 1", too.Red contrasting
stitching embellishes the AMG Performance seats in ARTICO man-made
leather/DINAMICA microfibre, the top section of the dashboard in
ARTICO man-made leather and the AMG Performance steering wheel in
nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre. Other visual highlights are the
E-SELECT lever with embossed AMG emblem and the "Edition 1" badge on
the AMG DRIVE UNIT.
The world premiere of
the A 45 AMG will take place at the Geneva Motor Show, whose doors
open on 5 March 2013. The sales release date will be 8 April 2013;
the market launch in Germany will begin this June.
The website devoted to
the A 45 AMG allows the new star from AMG to be discovered in
interactive mode. Comments, films and pictures from fans of the AMG
Twitter and Facebook pages are also displayed for all visitors on
the site's social wall, accompanied by an option for users to
publish their own statements.
