The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S is one of the most compelling compact crossovers of its kind and has been made all the more noteworthy thanks to a series of upgrades from German tuner VATH.
Quite often, tuning companies get their hands on a performance vehicle like the GLA 45 S and set about making such significant changes to it that it barely resembles its former self. That’s not the case here. In fact, VATH has kept the upgrades relatively minor, ensuring that it hasn’t ruined what is already a very impressive vehicle.
The tuner first turned its attention to the GLA 45 S’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder which, ordinarily, churns out 422 hp and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque. Thanks to a software update to the ECU, as well as the fitment of a new stainless steel downpipe and rear silencer, these figures have been lifted to 490 hp and 442 lb-ft (600 Nm). The intercooler has also been enlarged.
Elsewhere, VATH has fitted the Mercedes with solid steel braided brake lines to optimize pedal feel and ensure the SUV is up for a track day or a blast up and down a mountain road. Complementing the brake upgrades are a set of new sport springs that also slightly drop the ride height.
Read: VÄTH’s Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S Is Not To Be Messed With
Rounding out the upgrades made are the fitment of 20×9-inch alloy wheels that are wrapped in 255mm section tires at all four corners.
Given that the wheels are the only part of the SUV’s exterior that has been changed, one could be fooled into thinking this was a regular GLA 45 S if they saw it on the street. Little would they know that it’s essentially a Black Series in disguise.
