2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG Rendered, Detailed

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45

What It Is: AMG's version of the upcoming CLA compact sedan—or, to be more specific, a very accurate rendering of it. Powered by a 355-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, the CLA45 AMG will charge to 60 mph in around 4.5 seconds and hit the governor at no less than 155 mph. An all-wheel-drive system will help to get the power to the ground. The CLA is styled to resemble a miniature version of the CLS, which would make the CLA45 AMG the little brother of the CLS63 AMG. Like its big brother, the CLA will be distinguished from other cars in its class, as well as many other Mercedes, by its voluptuous styling.

Why It Matters: With the CLA45, Benz will target young and aspirational buyers who might find the rear-wheel-drive C63 AMG a bit too pricey or its 6.2-liter V-8 a bit too brutal. As did the 190E 2.3-16 of the 1980s, the CLA45 has strong potential to rejuvenate the Mercedes’ image and generate a lot of credibility among performance-oriented customers.

Platform: The CLA's platform is shared with the A-class and the B-class, as well as an upcoming GLA crossover and a station-wagon version of the CLA, to be incorrectly marketed as as "Shooting Brake." Beyond these five models, a convertible is possible as well. The architecture is front-drive-based, but all-wheel drive is optional on lesser versions and standard on the high-powered AMG models. Precise steering and excellent handling characteristics turn this platform into an ideal base for AMG derivatives.

Powertrains: The CLA45 will be powered by the M133 AMG engine, a single-turbo 2.0-liter four that’s closely related to Mercedes' M270/274 engine. The M133’s twin-scroll BorgWarner turbocharger produces up to 26 psi of boost. Maximum power will be 355 horsepower at 6000 rpm, with 332 lb-ft of torque available between 2250 and 5000 rpm. The engine will be mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, engineered and produced not by Mercedes-Benz.

Competition: Audi RS3, BMW 135i.

Estimated Arrival and Price: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG will debut at the New York auto show in March before hitting dealerships later this year as a 2014 model. Pricing hasn’t been set yet, but expect stickers starting close to $50,000—a nearly $20K premium over the 208-hp CLA250. View