Expansion into as many niches as possible is the key word for Mercedes-Benz these days, even if that means blurring the lines for consumers… We say that because how else can you describe the relationship between the upcoming GLA 45 AMG that our spies photographed testing on the Nürburgring and the current A45 AMG hatchback?
For all intents and purposes, the newly revealed GLA is a slightly longer (by 125mm or 4.92 inches), rougher looking A-Class hatch on stilts.
In normal guise, the GLA stands 64mm (2.54 inches) taller than the lower-slung A-class hatch, but in AMG trim, Mercedes has to drop the crossover’s body closer to the ground to improve its handling credentials, thus bringing the two related models even closer to each other…
You don’t have to wear a shirt with a Mercedes-Benz star to figure out that the A45 AMG and the future GLA 45 AMG will share the same exact powertrain comprising a 355hp and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) 2.0-liter turbocharged four paired to a dual-clutch seven-speed transmission and all-wheel drive system.
Nevertheless, the most critical difference between the two models concerns those of you who live in North America, as unlike the A45 AMG hatch that is not offered on this side of the Atlantic, the GLA 45 AMG compact crossover will be sold in Mercedes’ dealerships.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS
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