Mercedes-AMG Launches Updated CLA 45 And GLA 45

Mercedes-AMG has launched the CLA 45 facelift at Rs 75.2 lakh while the GLA 45 facelift is priced at Rs 77.85 lakh (ex-showroom). The Aero Editions of the CLA 45 and GLA 45 are priced at Rs 77.69 lakh and Rs 80.67 lakh.

Both the cars share the same mechanicals and churn out 381PS of power and 475Nm of torque from a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine. That's an improvement of 21PS and 25Nm compared to what they packed when they first came to India in 2014. The performance improvements come from the updated ECU and a new exhaust camshaft. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic sends the power to all four wheels, allowing it to offer better grip during acceleration and turning. The sleeker CLA 45 takes only 4.2 seconds to hit 100kmph from zero while the bulkier GLA 45 takes 4.4 seconds.

The 2.0-litre engine is known for squeezing out massive power from such a small displacement (190.5PS/litre). It continues to be the most powerful mass-produced 4-cylinder engine in the world.

The compact sporty cars get aggressive bumpers on both ends with a larger air dam up front and bigger diffuser fins at the rear sandwiched between a pair of exhaust ports on either side. Inside, you get an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay to support iPhones. Android fans will have to settle with MirrorLink to connect their phones as it doesn't support Android Auto.

The price and performance of Mercedes' latest compact sporty cars put them in the ring with the Volvo S60 Polestar, Ford Mustang and Audi S5.