Mercedes-AMG A45 S 2020: 416 Hp Hyper-Hatch With Drift Mode

The Mercedes-AMG A45 S 2020 model stands out as a benchmark in the compact performance car segment, blending supercar acceleration with hatchback versatility. Powered by a revolutionary 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 416 horsepower, it achieves 0-100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds while offering seating for five and a usable boot.

Powertrain Innovation: The M139 Engine Redefines Four-Cylinder Limits

At the heart of the A45 S lies the handcrafted M139 engine, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit that delivers an astonishing 310 kW (416 hp) and 500 Nm of torque. This marks a significant leap from its predecessor, with a 30 kW and 25 Nm increase, making it the most powerful production four-cylinder engine ever.

Mercedes-AMG engineers rotated the cylinder head 180 degrees, positioning the turbocharger near the firewall for shorter, more efficient exhaust paths. This design enhances throttle response and boosts efficiency. Paired with an eight-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT dual-clutch transmission, gear changes occur in milliseconds, ensuring seamless power delivery.

The variable turbine geometry turbocharger minimizes lag, providing instant torque from low revs. Fuel efficiency stands at 8.4-8.9 L/100 km combined, respectable for such output, with CO2 emissions around 192 g/km.

Advanced Drivetrain: 4MATIC+ and Drift Mode for Dynamic Control

The AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system features a rear-biased torque split, fully variable from 100% front to 100% rear. This setup prioritizes rear-wheel drive characteristics for playful handling, elevating the A45 S beyond traditional hot hatches.

Exclusive to the S variant, Drift Mode activates in Race mode with ESP off and manual transmission, enabling controlled powerslides on any surface. It unlocks the full potential for track days or spirited backroads, while fully variable traction control allows precise intervention levels.

On highways, the system ensures stability at speeds up to 270 km/h, with the optional AMG Driver’s Package removing the limiter. Braking is handled by massive 360 mm front and 330 mm rear rotors with six-piston calipers, providing confident stopping power.

Chassis and Handling: Precision Meets Playfulness

Suspended on a sophisticated setup with adaptive damping, the A45 S balances compliance for daily drives and sharpness for aggressive cornering. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires on 19-inch wheels grip ferociously, delivering neutral balance and high cornering speeds.

Steering is direct and communicative, with weight building progressively in Sport+ and Race modes. The chassis remains planted through fast sweeps, though some reviewers note the AWD can feel unpredictable on track with ESC disabled, demanding driver skill.

Ride quality impresses for a performance car, absorbing bumps comfortably in Comfort mode while firming up for twisty roads. Exhaust valves open in Sport modes, adding crackles and pops for an engaging soundtrack.

Luxury Interior: Tech-Laden Cabin for Driver and Passengers

The cabin exudes premium quality with dual 10.25-inch MBUX touchscreen displays for infotainment and gauges. Voice control responds to “Hey Mercedes,” while augmented reality navigation overlays directions on live camera feed.

Sports seats wrapped in Artico leather and Dinamica microfiber offer strong lateral support and yellow contrast stitching. The flat-bottom AMG steering wheel in nappa leather features galvanized shift paddles and a mode selector. Ambient lighting with 64 colors, Burmester audio, and heated seats elevate comfort.

Rear space accommodates adults for short trips, with ISOFIX points and a 370-liter boot suitable for family duties. Keyless entry, dual-zone climate, and a panoramic sunroof round out the spec list.

• Key Interior Features:
• Dual 10.25-inch MBUX screens
• 64-color ambient lighting
• Burmester premium sound system
• Heated AMG Performance seats
• Digital instrument cluster with AMG menus

Safety and Everyday Practicality: Beyond the Performance

Earning a five-star ANCAP rating, the A45 S packs active safety tech including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-change assist. LED headlights with auto high-beam enhance night driving.

As a five-door hatch, it serves family needs with child seat compatibility and ample cargo space. Pricing starts around $93,600 plus on-roads in some markets, reflecting its loaded spec but justifying the premium with capability.

Driving Experience: From Commute to Circuit

In daily use, Comfort mode delivers refined cruising with light steering and supple ride. Sport mode awakens the engine’s surge, quickens shifts, and sharpens responses. Race mode transforms it into a track weapon, with taut suspension and rear bias for rotation.

Reviewers praise its highway poise and mountain road grip, though track dynamics require familiarity—especially in Drift Mode. It’s faster than many supercars yet practical, blurring lines between hot hatch and sports car.

Compared to rivals like Audi RS3, the A45 S edges in power and features Drift Mode exclusivity, though some find its chassis less intuitive at the limit.

Pricing, Warranty, and Ownership

The A45 S commands a premium, often $20,000 more than the prior model, but delivers unmatched performance per dollar. A five-year unlimited-km warranty provides peace of mind.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Explosive acceleration, innovative AWD, luxurious interior, advanced safety, family practicality.
• Cons: High price, track handling demands skill, firm ride in aggressive modes.

Final Verdict: A Game-Changer in Compact Performance

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG A45 S raises the hyper-hatch bar, offering supercar thrills in a versatile package. Ideal for enthusiasts seeking daily usability with track potential, it excels on road and compromises little.

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