Mercedes doesn’t sell the CLA45 and A45 in the United States meaning the closest thing that Americans can get to a hot hatch from the German automaker is the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA45.
Featured in this review from Matt Farah, the GLA45 could be viewed as a slightly lifted version of the A45. Powering the crossover is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. In Europe, it delivers 415 hp and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) in ‘S’ form but the U.S. misses out on this flagship variant and has to make do with the standard GLA45 that’s rated at 382 hp and 354 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque.
Watch Also: Is The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S More Than A Jacked-Up A45?
Coupled to this engine is an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission that Farah is very complimentary of. He says that he wasn’t particularly fond of the old seven-speed dual-clutch that Mercedes used but believes this eight-speed is much better and provides more crisp gear changes. He also likes the shift lights on the gauge cluster and the gear ratios.
The GLA45 also sounds very good and the exhaust provides some nice burbles on both upshifts and downshifts.
In addition, Farah loves how the crossover rides and says that the steering is very communicative. He also likes the brakes but says the 21-inch wheels that come standard are a little excessive and the car would be better off with 20s. He also isn’t a big fan of the seats which don’t provide much bolstering.