ಮರ್ಸಿಡಿಸ್ ಗ್ಲಾಸ್ 2014-2019 45 AMG

As promised, Mercedes Benz India has introduced the AMG version of its recently launched SUV, GLA Class in the Indian automobile market. This latest trim is christened as Mercedes Benz GLA 45 AMG 4MATIC and is placed above the existing variants. It is equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which is mated with a 7 speed DCT AMG SPEEDSHIFT plus automatic transmission gearbox. This engine can belt out 360bhp of power along with a torque of 450Nm, which makes it the worlds most powerful engine in its class. This SUV has a compelling body design owing to its AMG kit including front and rear bumpers with titanium inserts and lightweight alloy wheels. Its interiors are done up with a black color scheme, which is complimented by contrasting red stitching and carbon fibre inserts. This luxury SUV is associated with sophisticated features including AMG sports suspension system with independent front and rear axles, which helps it to be agile on any road condition. On the other hand, this vehicle is bestowed with a ground clearance of 204mm, which adds to its off-road capability. Apart from this, it has several advanced aspects including automatic climate control unit, an infotainment system, and electrically adjustable front seats. As far as its safety features are concerned, this trim has a total of eight airbags, three point seatbelts and impact protection beams, which protects the occupants by minimizing the damage in case of an accident.

Exteriors:

This latest trim has a captivating body structure as it is fitted with spectacular exterior cosmetics. Its front facade has a large perforated radiator grille that has a twin-blade louver embedded with iconic company's logo. It is further embossed with AMG lettering, which adds to its sporty look. The headlight cluster has a black finish inside and is equipped with bi-xenon headlamps along with LED daytime running lights and turn indicators. The front bumper is fitted with a black colored protective cladding along with a titanium lip. It also houses a three perforated air intake consoles, which provides better air intake for engine cooling. It has a lustrous side profile, thanks to the expressive lines all over. It also has signature AMG features like B pillars, window frame, and ORVM caps, which are done up in high gloss black. Its wheel arches are also fitted with protective strips along with a set of stylish alloy wheels. This SUV has an intimidating rear profile, thanks to the diffuser, which house four exhaust pipes. The taillight cluster is quite large and is powered by all LED lights including turn indicators and brake lamps. The tailgate is quite expressive as it is decorated with a chrome strip along with company's badge. In addition to this, it also has a body colored spoiler, which is integrated with LED third brake light along wiper.

Interiors:

The interiors of this Mercedes Benz GLA 45 AMG 4MATIC variant is done up with black color scheme, which gives it a sporty appeal. Its cockpit is well furnished with AMG Performance seats, which have side bolsters for backrest and seat cushion. They are covered with ARTICO man-made leather upholstery, which has red stripes in Nappa leather. Its dashboard is quite sleek that houses a climate control unit a large touchscreen infotainment system and glove box. Furthermore, it is also fitted with a flat-bottomed steering wheel that houses control switches for audio, calls and cruise control. The AMG instrument cluster has two round shaped meters along with a color screen, which displays vehicle's speed, rpm meter, fuel levels along with numerous other warning function. There is an ample leg and shoulder space available inside as it has a long wheelbase and width of 2699mm and 1804mm respectively. There are several utility features available inside the cabin like dual front sun visors with illuminated vanity mirror, accessory power socket, front center armrest with stowage compartment and drink holders.

Engine and Performance:

This latest trim is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that has a displacement capacity of 1991cc. This motor has 4-cylinders and 16-valves, which receives fuel through spray-guided direct fuel injection system. This power plant also has a turbocharger and air-to-water cooling system. It has the ability to produce a maximum power of 360bhp at 6000rpm in combination with a hammering torque output of 450Nm in the range of 2250 to 5000rpm. The car maker has paired this motor with a sophisticated AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports automatic transmission, which delivers torque output to all four wheels. This engine is also the most fuel efficient in its class, as it can deliver a mileage of 17 kmpl, which is quite impressive.

Braking and Handling:

This newly launched variant is bestowed with AMG high-performance braking system featuring vented, cross-drilled brakes on all four wheels. These are further loaded with grey-painted brake calipers, which delivers exceptional performance. In addition to this, the automaker has incorporated an anti-lock braking system along with electronic brake force distribution, which collaborates with ESP to improve this braking mechanism. As far as its suspension is concerned, this latest variant is bestowed with an AMG sport suspension system with independent damping control. Furthermore, the car maker has also incorporated a speed sensitive power assisted steering system, which provides precise response and makes it convenient to handle.

Comfort Features:

This Mercedes Benz GLA 45 AMG 4MATIC trim is bestowed with several advanced comfort features like ECO start/stop function, electrically adjustable front seats with memory package, an automatic climate control unit, multi-functional steering wheel with shift pedals, electrically adjustable outside mirrors, power steering and ambient lighting with indirect lighting. It also has features like sun visors with illuminated vanity mirror, illuminated glove compartment, power windows with one touch operation, outside temperature display and 60:40 split folding rear seat. This luxury SUV is also integrated with a COMAND online system featuring a 7-inch TFT display. It is integrated with navigation and offers touch controls for the multimedia system.

Safety Features:

This latest trim is integrated with numerous advanced safety features including ATTENTION Assist system, electronic stability program, tyre pressure monitoring system and acceleration skid control and adaptive high beam assist. This SUV also has restraint systems including 3-point seat belts for all five seats, eight airbags and ISOFIX child seat attachment points in the rear. Furthermore, it also has security features like automatic door locking, central locking system, electronic engine immobilizer and programmable remote key.

Pros:

1. AMG 2.0-litre engine is the most powerful in its class.

2. External and Internal design is quite remarkable.

Cons:

1. Boot compartment is not as good as other contenders.

2. Price range can be made more competitive.