2023 Mercedes A45 S AMG | Ultimate Hot Hatch!
I recently got to drive the 2023 Mercedes A45 S AMG, and I'm thrilled to tell you all about it! This car is not just fast, it's also like a luxury tech room on wheels, but in a sporty hatchback shape. So, let's dive into the review and see what this car's all about!
Turning Heads
The 2023 A45 S AMG is a real head-turner from every angle, and as always, I'm eager to take you on a tour. Right from the start, it grabs your attention with its iconic AMG grille and bright LED headlights that cut through the dark. This particular model comes in the striking Polar White exterior color, which adds to its allure and shows off every detail. The hood boasts a cool design that hints at the powerful engine beneath, especially with the well-known “AMG logo” adorning it, while the sleek lines along the sides enhance its sporty vibe. As we check out the sides, the A45 S AMG boasts 19-inch cross-spoke forged AMG wheels that make a statement, complemented by striking red brake calipers hinting at its need for speed. The roofline flows smoothly into the back, giving it a fast, yet sophisticated look.
Around the back, the dual exhausts rumble with a promise of power, while the sleek tail lights blend seamlessly into the design. The AMG rear skirt with a special diffuser look, featuring four vertical fins, adds an extra sporty touch. And, of course, there's the bold AMG badge that makes sure it's remembered long after it speeds by. In a nutshell, the 2023 A45 S AMG combines daring style with elegant design elements, creating a car that's not just about looks but also about making a statement. It perfectly balances sportiness with elegance, capturing your attention and not letting go.
When Sportiness Meets Tech
Stepping inside feels like stepping into a whole new world of sporty-tech vibes, with seats and a steering wheel that just scream AMG! It's like being in the cockpit of a spaceship, especially with all those fancy screens and high-tech features, including the MBUX infotainment system, which is more than just your average dashboard gadget. With its second-generation tech, MBUX takes the driving experience to a whole new level of convenience and connectivity. It seamlessly connects with your smartphone via Apple Carplay or Android Auto, putting navigation, music, and communication right at your fingertips. And here's the kicker—its advanced voice command feature lets you control almost everything just by saying “Hey Mercedes” followed by your command or question. It's like having a tech-savvy co-pilot that knows your preferences inside out! It just works really smooth. Another cool thing about the MBUX is that even the layout has that distinct AMG look. Within the fully digital instrument cluster, you can choose from three dynamic AMG display styles, adding to the overall sporty vibe.
The 2023 Mercedes A45 S AMG gives you six AMG Dynamic Select driving modes to play with! Whether you're feeling the need for speed or just want to cruise, these modes adjust to fit the situation. You can stick with the presets or mix things up to suit your style – it's totally up to you. This feature makes the A45 S stand out in the hot hatch crowd, offering a ride that's all about your preferences. It's like having a car that knows exactly what you're in the mood for.
But enough about techy features, did you notice those super sporty AMG performance seats? They're like plush leather/microfiber thrones that hug you in all the right places, ensuring you're comfy and supported no matter how you're driving or sliding the car into a corner—they've got your back, literally. The yellow stitching and AMG logos add a touch of swag that's hard to beat.
Oh, and let's not forget about the steering wheel! But seriously, how could we ever forget about that, haha! It's like it’s straight out of a race car, with its flat-bottom design and grippy Nappa leather/microfiber that just screams performance. But here's the cool part, it has those slick touch-sensitive AMG steering wheel buttons that let you control the AMG driving modes and other driving dynamic functions. It’s just so cool to have those little screens on your steering wheel, really like it!
Last but not least, let's talk about Mercedes's ambient lighting. This feature adds a whole new vibe to your driving experience, making the inside of the car feel just right for you. With lots of colors to choose from, you can set the mood whether you're cruising around town or out for a night drive. And it's not just about lighting up the inside—it makes the whole cabin look cooler and more stylish. It's like having your own special light show on the move!
AMG Power!
We have arrived at the most crucial aspect of this review: Performance and Specs! Let's delve deeper into the driving dynamics and performance of the 2023 Mercedes-AMG A45 S. With its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, this five-door/five-seater hatchback offers a thrilling driving experience that seamlessly merges practicality with high-performance capabilities. At its core lies a remarkable 2.0L Turbo 4 Cylinder engine, generating an impressive 421 hp (310 kW) and 500 Nm of torque. This powertrain delivers immediate responsiveness and a linear acceleration that's truly exhilarating. It accelerates you from 0 to 100 kph in just 3.9 seconds, which is only 0.1 seconds slower than the 2022 Audi RS3!
Paired with an 8-speed auto dual-clutch transmission, the A45 S ensures smooth and precise gear shifts, optimizing performance whether cruising on the highway or maneuvering through tight corners. Its intuitive transmission adapts seamlessly to various driving conditions, enhancing the overall driving experience. The A45 S excels in handling, the AMG Performance 4MATIC system provides excellent traction combined with driving pleasure thanks to the seamless and variable distribution of torque between the front and rear axles. Ranging from pure front-wheel drive to a 50/50 ratio. Offering exceptional grip and stability, it instills confidence even during spirited driving, with minimal body roll and precise steering feedback for enhanced control.
A45 S AMG Wrapped Up!
Overall, priced from €75.020 (BE), the 2023 Mercedes A45 S AMG seamlessly combines luxury with powerful performance, making it a top choice for speed enthusiasts, style lovers, and those who value the Mercedes-Benz legacy of excellence. Despite its higher price tag, the modern features, performance and luxurious comforts it offers make it a standout in the compact performance car category.
