Skip advert
Advertisement

Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG (2015 - 2018) review - design

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

Design

The A45 still looks as imposing now as it did at launch, and its aggressive prow and deeply sculpted flanks mark it out as both something different from the herd, and from lesser A-class models. AMG addenda includes a jutting chin spoiler, extended side sills and a small rear spoiler, but as you can see in our photographs, various extras are available to embellish it further as part of the £1530 AMG Aerodynamic Package.

As standard, the A45 AMG rides on 18in five-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in 235/40 R18 tyres. Ordinarily, we’d suggest sticking to the smaller wheel options to the benefit of ride and little handling compromise - but having driven A45s on both 18 and 19-inch wheels and experienced equally punishing ride quality in both, we see little reason not to tick the 19in box and reap the aesthetic benefits.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Why car enthusiasts are suddenly lusting after once-ridiculed old Volvos
Volvo 760 Turbo
Opinion

Why car enthusiasts are suddenly lusting after once-ridiculed old Volvos

A sighting of a 1980s Volvo induces a bout of wistfulness for Porter
21 Mar 2025
Subaru Impreza WRX STI (Mk1, 1994 - 2000): review, history and specs of the rally icon
Subaru Impreza WRX STI Type RA
Reviews

Subaru Impreza WRX STI (Mk1, 1994 - 2000): review, history and specs of the rally icon

The original Impreza WRX STI is a motorsport icon, a true homologation special and a relative bargain in 2025
22 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