Skip advert
Advertisement

Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG review – furiously fast, but frustratingly, not much fun (2015 - 2018) - Engine and gearbox

Dramatic performance and plenty of grip for AMG's smallest offering, but you can find more fun for less money elsewhere

Evo rating
RRP
from £41,830
  • Blisteringly quick everywhere
  • Not as rewarding as some slower rivals

Engine and gearbox

It’s hard not to be impressed with the power AMG’s engineers have managed to extract from a mere 2.0-litres of capacity, even with turbocharging. 376bhp is a lot of power by anyone’s standards, let alone that of similarly-sized cars, and with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and docile responses at low speeds it’s as easy to drive as an entry-level Mercedes A180. Sending power through all four wheels as part of a 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, the A45’s reserves of traction are never in doubt.

Importantly, it’s also a ‘proper’ AMG. Just like other models so-badged, the A45’s engine is hand-assembled by one person from start to finish. Such a procedure was always a highlight of older AMGs, but it’s somehow more impressive still with the A45, given the comparably huge numbers the smaller car sells in.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The A45’s headline power output is developed at 6000rpm, with 350lb ft of torque on offer on a 2250-5000rpm plateau. Some may point out that Mitsubishi once produced Lancer Evolutions with greater specific outputs, but realistically the cars are beyond comparison - the AMG not only produces impressive power, but does so with a three-year warranty, 12,500-mile service intervals, and combined economy of 40.9mpg - figures in the 30s are entirely realistic.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Audi RS3 v Toyota GR Yaris v Mercedes-AMG A45 S – car pictures of the week
Hot hatch test
Features

Audi RS3 v Toyota GR Yaris v Mercedes-AMG A45 S – car pictures of the week

In the latest issue of evo, we test three of the most sophisticated hot hatches on sale against each other on road and track – these are our favourite…
29 Mar 2025
Used Audi RS6 Avant (C7, 2013 - 2019) review, specs and buying guide – family-friendly supercar slayer from £20k
Audi RS6 – front
In-depth reviews

Used Audi RS6 Avant (C7, 2013 - 2019) review, specs and buying guide – family-friendly supercar slayer from £20k

Audi’s C7-generation RS6 may lack ultimate involvement, but it’s still a crushingly effective and desirable super-estate
27 Mar 2025
Performance Link Mazda MX-5 R300 review – an MX-5 with Honda VTEC power
Performance Link Mazda MX-5 R300 – front
Reviews

Performance Link Mazda MX-5 R300 review – an MX-5 with Honda VTEC power

A screaming 296bhp Honda VTEC engine and a full chassis upgrade package turn the NC-generation Mazda MX-5 into something altogether more thrilling
25 Mar 2025