Mercedes-Benz has recently revealed the result of one of its most ambitious projects yet, the new A45 hatchback. The model gets the highest amount of power per litre that has ever been witnessed in a car. At 178 bhp per litre, this beauty generates greater power than the Ferrari 458 V8 whose output somewhere stands at 125 bhp per litre.
The phenomenal power output of this car generates by virtue of a twin-scroll supercharger and intelligent spray-guided fuel injection. The 2.0 litre, 355 bhp engine propels this vehicle from rest to 100 kmph in a whopping 4.6 seconds. This makes it half a second faster than its closest rival, the BMW M135i.
A seven-speed twin clutch automatic gearbox has been mated to the turbocharged petrol engine of new A45. With an overwhelming output, the model also delivers a decent mileage of 12 kmpl and CO2 emissions of 161 g/km, as claimed by the company officials. Such figures are truly remarkable for a model that delivers a super car-like performance.
It is the first time that an All-Wheel-Drive system has been mated with the Mercedes seven-speed automatic gearbox. There are three modes of the transmission, namely Controlled Efficiency, Sport and Manual. In addition, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) can be switched off or switched to Sport mode.
The A45 is a completely new vehicle, unlike previous A-Class AMGs, which only had the trim and suspension packages. The new engine, constructed by a single technician, would also be seen in the upcoming Mercedes CLA 45. Interestingly, the auto maker follows 'One man, one engine' at AMG models.
AMG updates have also been given to the exterior of this car. Side skirts and air intakes have been made gloss black, along with the rear view mirrors. 18-inch alloy wheels have been fitted in the model to give it a sporting stance. A larger rear spoiler, along with big front splitter contributes to the aerodynamics of the A45.
In India, as the BMW Mini Cooper, which is available between Rs. 25-28 lakhs, managed to sell 300 units during 2012, Mercedes-Benz also looks set to bet big on the Indian auto market. This shows that the country is slowly gearing up for powerful premium hatchbacks. Such a market presents a lucrative opportunity for Mercedes-Benz, which could consider bringing the A45 here sometime in the future. Reportedly, the A-Class would be offered to the Indian buyers during April 2013.
