SPY PICS: Mercedes CLA45 AMG

First official images and video of Mercedes-Benz's upcoming compact performance sedan, the CLA45 AMG, have surfaced.

The new 'spy' photos of the high-performance CLA clearly show the curvaceous rump of the all-new four-door 'coupe' as it undergoes testing on tarmac and ice, while the video shows the AMG-tuned 'baby CLS' performing impressive power slides on a wet test track.

Other visible features not camouflaged include the CLA45's large AMG alloy wheels, lowered suspension, ground-hugging body kit and large front-mount intercooler.

Based on the same MFA platform as the new A-Class due here in a few months, the CLA45 AMG will be motivated by the same 1.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine as the A45 AMG hot-hatch, and can be expected to punch out around 260kW/450Nm - enough mumbo to reach 280km/h.

The German car-maker has already announced the CLA-Class will make it public debut at the 2013 Geneva motor show in March, and being based on the same platform as the A- and B-Class its engine line-up is likely to mirror those vehicle lines.

As such, expect an entry-level 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine (90kW/200kW) for the CLA 180, a 1.8-litre turbo-diesel (100kW/300Nm) for the CLA 200 CDI and up-spec 2.0-litre turbo-petrol power (155kW/350Nm) for the CLA 250 Sport.

Based on previous drive experience we've had with the hot A45 AMG hatchback in Germany, ( the heavier CLA45 AMG sedan should accelerate to 100km/h in around five seconds and will make use of a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that feeds power to all four wheels.

As well as all-wheel drive, the twin-clutch auto, beefier engine and tighter suspension, the CLA45 AMG is likely to get bigger brakes and a revamped interior to match its aggressive exterior aesthetic.