Full details revealed for Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S 4MATIC

Mercedes-Benz has overnight released full specifications and images for the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC+, the small SUV powered by a 310kW turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

The GLA 45 has remained well and truly under wraps during its development, despite sharing engine and platform with the Mercedes-AMG A 45. When it arrives in Australia, during the fourth quarter of this year, the GLA 45 promises to blacken the eye of the Audi RS Q3 and RS Q3 Sportback.

Described by the manufacturer as "the world’s most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder manufactured for series production", the 2.0-litre engine under the bonnet of the GLA 45 is available in a lower state of tune – 285kW – but the 310kW mill powering the S version is the one Australia will be getting. Local pricing won't be made known until closer to launch.

Peak torque is rated at 500Nm, the 0-100km/h time is just 4.3 seconds and the GLA 45 S fuel consumption figure in combined cycle testing is 9.3L/100km.

The engines for the GLA 45 are assembled in accordance with the Mercedes-AMG philosophy of "One Man, One Engine". Mercedes-AMG engineers have turned the engine around 180 degrees; it's still a transverse orientation, but the turbocharger and exhaust manifold are now located between the engine and the firewall. According to the manufacturer, this improves air flow on both the intake and exhaust sides of the engine, plus more compact design at the front for improved aerodynamics.

The twin-scroll turbocharger is new, and Benz claims that it reduces turbo lag. Two-stage fuel injection is also introduced for the new GLA 45, combining piezo injectors that discharge directly into the combustion chambers with solenoid injectors pumping fuel into the inlet ports from the manifold.

Drive to all four wheels is by means of an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and optimised by the AMG Torque Control system, which distributes torque to the rear axle as required, with multi-plate clutches either side of the differential to enhance traction and stability.

The dual-clutch transmission comes with an integral 'Race-Start' launch control function, plus Comfort mode and Eco calibration with a 'gliding' function to save fuel.

Underneath, the GLA 45 is suspended by MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link rear end. Adaptive dampers can be set to a choice from three different modes. Braking is handled by six-piston calipers at the front, acting on 360x36mm ventilated and cross-drilled rotors. Single-piston floating calipers are matched to the 330x22mm rotors at the rear. An electro-mechanical power steering system takes care of the cornering demands.

Inside, the GLA 45 S features an AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather and DINAMICA microfibre, AMG steering-wheel buttons and AMG Track Pace.

"The second generation of our very successful compact sports model is now complete," says Tobias Moers, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG.

"The GLA portfolio, in the form of the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 and GLA 45 S, now also includes our innovative four-cylinder turbo engine, so setting the benchmark in this segment.

"In addition, the new GLA 45 is not only significantly more dynamic, but also more practical in everyday use than its predecessor, thereby ensuring its appeal to a dynamic, lifestyle-oriented target group."

A review of the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S 4MATIC+ will be published at carsales early next month.