In November 2013 Mercedes-Benz made an important historical announcement that many think marks the beginning of a new era for the celebrated automotive brand. The thrilling A 45 AMG was announced at the Dubai International Motor Show, making this the first car with a four-cylinder engine to don the coveted Mercedes-AMG label.
With a maximum output of 360 horse power and up to 450 Newton meters of torque, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine is the most powerful series production four-cylinder engine in the world. The sensational power density of 181 HP outstrips even the most powerful super sports cars. At the same time, the engine also boasts supreme efficiency and complies with the EU6 emissions standard.
At a recent press conference regarding this new launch, Michael Ruehle, General Manager of Abdul Rahman Albisher & Zaid Alkazemi Co. spoke of the large appeal locally when stating, “the Mercedes-AMG transformed the already fast and dynamic A-Class into an exceptional machine that captures the body, soul and mind of the ambitious and performance driven generation…we are aware of this high-appeal of AMG vehicles in Kuwait, especially for the younger generations, so we have launched the A 45 AMG ‘Edition 1’ model, which features a few extra AMG options than the typical model. Also with its impressive high-tech package and the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the A 45 AMG will be quite the looker on Kuwait’s roads.” With such an ambitious introduction, we figure it surely deserves a look under the hood.
Just like the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake, the fully appointed ‘Edition 1’ model variant boasts an expressive composition of exclusive exterior and interior details. The A 45 AMG ‘Edition 1’ focuses on the car’s affinity to motorsport with an exterior paint finish in cirrus white corresponds with matt graphite gray AMG sports stripes in matt graphite gray and red highlights on the radiator grille, exterior mirrors and rear aerofoil. These highlights combine to perfection with the red painted brake calipers and the AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in matt black with special AMG hub caps in central-locking look. Both the AMG Night package and the Aerodynamics package feature as standard for the ‘Edition 1,’ providing the perfect finishing touch to the model’s motorsport-inspired character.
“Since the launch of the A-Class in May 2013, we have seen a great demand for this particular compact car and what it represents for young and successful individuals who are not ready to commit to a more serious sedan or SUV. The AMG label adds a little extra character and power to a car that already has an undeniable appeal,” added Ruehle.
The A 45 AMG also leads its segment in terms of fuel consumption, running on 6.9 liters per 100 kilometers in NEDC combined mode. The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive onboard the A 45 AMG sets new standards in the car’s segment. This is accompanied by particularly low exhaust emissions: the A 45 AMG already complies with the EU6 emissions standard which is not scheduled to enter into force until 2015, combined with the limit for the particle count per kilometer of 6 x 1011 which will be mandatory from 2017.
The high power and torque output and the combination with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive as standard lead to extremely dynamic performance: the A 45 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, while its top speed stands at 250 km/h (electronically limited).
The ‘TURBO AMG’ lettering on the wing is exclusive to the top model of the A-Class. The AMG rear apron with its highlighted air outlet openings at the sides features a diffusor insert and trim in matt titanium gray. Two square, chrome-plated tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system with exhaust flap add an appropriately bold finishing touch.
Inside, as well, the new A 45 AMG boasts a heady mix of hallmark Mercedes-AMG dynamism and exclusivity. The sports seats in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfiber with red contrasting topstitching, the multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles and the AMG DRIVE UNIT set new standards in terms of both appearance and quality. The dashboard trim comes in carbon-fiber look – a perfect match for the five air vents in black/red, the red seat belts and the AMG door-sill panels. The AMG instrument cluster presents information by means of a central color display with the AMG main menu and the RACETIMER. In short, if you are looking for speed, and want a car that will make the most of an ultra-dense engine and want to look good while you do it, the new Mercedes-Benz AMG just might be for you.
For more information on Mercedes-Benz products and services in Kuwait, please visit www.Mercedes-Benz.com.kw or follow them on Facebook at MercedesBenzKuwait, or Twitter and Instagram @MercedesBenzKWT. The iPhone application for Abdul Rahman Albisher & Zaid Alkazemi Co. can be downloaded for free by searching for ‘MB Kuwait’ in the Apple online app store.
