Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 4MATIC (2017): Review, Specs & More

by Alex Braham 58 views

Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 4MATIC from 2017. This hot hatch isn't just a pretty face; it’s a performance beast wrapped in a compact package. If you're looking for a thrilling ride with everyday practicality, the A45 AMG might just be your perfect match. Let's explore what makes this car so special, covering everything from its engine and performance to its interior, technology, and overall driving experience. Whether you're a seasoned AMG lover or just curious about what this pocket rocket has to offer, buckle up and get ready for a detailed journey!

Overview of the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 4MATIC

Okay, let’s kick things off with a general overview. The Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 4MATIC is the high-performance version of the standard A-Class, and the 2017 model year is particularly noteworthy. It represents a sweet spot in terms of technology, power, and overall refinement. This car isn't just about straight-line speed; it's about providing an engaging and dynamic driving experience that puts a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. From its aggressive styling to its meticulously crafted interior, the A45 AMG exudes a sense of purpose and performance that sets it apart from its rivals.

Under the hood, you'll find a handcrafted AMG engine, which we’ll delve into shortly. This powerplant is a testament to AMG’s engineering prowess, delivering incredible horsepower and torque figures that make the A45 one of the most powerful hatchbacks on the market. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensures that all that power is effectively transferred to the road, providing excellent grip and stability in various driving conditions. Inside, the A45 AMG boasts a sporty yet luxurious cabin, complete with bolstered seats, premium materials, and advanced technology features. It's a car that's equally at home on a winding mountain road or a daily commute, offering a blend of excitement and practicality that's hard to find elsewhere.

Engine and Performance

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: the engine and performance. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, hand-built by AMG. This isn't just any four-cylinder; it's a masterpiece of engineering, producing a staggering 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Yes, you read that right – almost 400 horses from a 2.0-liter engine! This output makes the A45 AMG one of the most powerful production four-cylinder cars ever made.

The engine is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, which provides lightning-fast gear changes and seamless power delivery. The combination of this potent engine and quick-shifting transmission allows the A45 AMG to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds. That's supercar territory not too long ago, and it’s still seriously impressive today. The A45 AMG doesn’t just excel in straight-line acceleration; it also shines in the corners. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction, allowing you to confidently attack even the most challenging roads. The system can vary the torque distribution between the front and rear axles, providing a balanced and agile driving experience.

Furthermore, the AMG Ride Control suspension offers adaptive damping, allowing you to tailor the car's ride and handling characteristics to your preferences. Whether you're looking for a comfortable ride on the highway or maximum performance on a racetrack, the A45 AMG can adapt to your needs. The car also features a high-performance braking system, providing ample stopping power and ensuring your confidence behind the wheel. The exhaust system is another highlight, producing a throaty and aggressive sound that perfectly complements the car's performance capabilities. In short, the engine and performance of the 2017 A45 AMG are nothing short of spectacular, making it a true standout in the hot hatch segment.

Interior and Technology

Moving inside, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 4MATIC doesn’t disappoint. The interior is a blend of sporty design, premium materials, and advanced technology. The first thing you'll notice are the AMG performance seats, which offer excellent support and comfort, keeping you firmly in place during spirited driving. These seats are typically trimmed in leather and microfiber, with red stitching and other sporty accents adding to the cabin's visual appeal.

The dashboard is dominated by a centrally mounted infotainment screen, which houses the car's navigation, audio, and connectivity functions. The system is controlled via a rotary dial and touchpad, allowing for intuitive operation. The A45 AMG also features a premium sound system, providing crisp and clear audio quality. Other technology highlights include Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration, and a suite of driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.

The cabin is adorned with high-quality materials, including aluminum trim, soft-touch plastics, and leather upholstery. The overall design is modern and sporty, with a focus on functionality and ergonomics. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather and features paddle shifters, allowing you to manually control the transmission. The instrument cluster is clear and easy to read, providing all the essential information at a glance. Despite its compact size, the A45 AMG offers a surprising amount of space for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats are comfortable enough for adults on shorter journeys, and the trunk provides ample cargo capacity for everyday use. In summary, the interior and technology of the 2017 A45 AMG are top-notch, creating a comfortable and engaging environment for both the driver and passengers.

Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about the most important aspect: the driving experience. Getting behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 4MATIC is an event in itself. The moment you press the start button, the engine roars to life, announcing its presence with a purposeful growl. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing excellent feedback from the road. The car feels incredibly agile and responsive, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads.

The A45 AMG's acceleration is truly addictive. The surge of power from the turbocharged engine is relentless, and the quick-shifting transmission ensures that you're always in the right gear. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides immense grip, allowing you to confidently put the power down, even in less-than-ideal conditions. The car feels planted and stable, inspiring confidence at every turn. The AMG Ride Control suspension does an excellent job of balancing comfort and performance. In comfort mode, the ride is surprisingly compliant, making the A45 AMG suitable for daily commuting. Switch to sport or sport+ mode, and the suspension firms up, providing enhanced body control and reduced roll.

The brakes are strong and responsive, providing ample stopping power when needed. The exhaust note is another highlight, producing a symphony of pops and crackles that adds to the overall excitement. The A45 AMG isn't just about outright speed; it's about the entire driving experience. It's a car that makes you feel connected to the road, providing a sense of engagement and involvement that's rare in modern vehicles. Whether you're carving through canyon roads or simply cruising around town, the 2017 A45 AMG delivers a driving experience that's both thrilling and rewarding. It’s a true driver's car, designed to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.

Reliability and Maintenance

When considering any high-performance vehicle, reliability and maintenance are crucial factors. The Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 4MATIC is generally considered to be a reliable car, but like any performance vehicle, it requires proper care and maintenance to ensure its longevity. Regular servicing is essential, including oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections. The AMG engine is a complex piece of machinery, so it's important to use the recommended fluids and parts.

One of the potential issues to be aware of is the wear and tear on the tires and brakes. Due to the car's high performance, the tires and brakes can wear out relatively quickly, especially if you frequently engage in spirited driving. It's important to regularly check the condition of these components and replace them as needed. Another potential area of concern is the dual-clutch transmission. While it provides quick and seamless gear changes, it can be more sensitive than a traditional automatic transmission. It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for servicing the transmission and to avoid any harsh or abusive driving habits.

Overall, the A45 AMG is a well-engineered car, but it's important to be proactive with maintenance and address any issues promptly. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your A45 AMG remains reliable and enjoyable for many years to come. It's also a good idea to keep detailed records of all maintenance and repairs, as this can be helpful when it comes time to sell the car.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 4MATIC:

Pros:

  • Incredible Performance: The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers exhilarating power and acceleration.
  • Agile Handling: The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system and AMG Ride Control suspension provide excellent handling and grip.
  • Luxurious Interior: The cabin is well-appointed with premium materials and sporty design elements.
  • Advanced Technology: The car is equipped with a range of advanced technology features, including a high-resolution infotainment screen and driver-assistance systems.
  • Everyday Practicality: Despite its high performance, the A45 AMG is surprisingly practical, with comfortable seating and ample cargo space.

Cons:

  • Maintenance Costs: High-performance vehicles typically have higher maintenance costs, including tire and brake replacements.
  • Firm Ride: The ride can be firm, especially in sport or sport+ mode.
  • Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the fuel economy is not as good as some other hatchbacks due to the car's high performance.
  • Potential Reliability Issues: Like any performance car, the A45 AMG can be prone to certain reliability issues if not properly maintained.

Is the 2017 Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 4MATIC Right for You?

So, is the 2017 Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 4MATIC the right car for you? If you're looking for a high-performance hatchback that delivers thrilling performance, agile handling, and a luxurious interior, then the A45 AMG is definitely worth considering. It's a car that's equally at home on a racetrack or a daily commute, offering a blend of excitement and practicality that's hard to find elsewhere. However, it's important to be aware of the potential maintenance costs and the firm ride. If you're willing to invest in proper maintenance and can tolerate a slightly firmer ride, then the A45 AMG can be a rewarding and enjoyable car to own.

It's also worth considering your driving style and priorities. If you primarily drive in the city and value comfort over performance, then there may be other hatchbacks that are better suited to your needs. But if you're a driving enthusiast who loves to carve through twisty roads and experience the thrill of high-performance motoring, then the A45 AMG is a true standout. Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If possible, it's always a good idea to test drive the car and see how it feels before making a purchase. This will give you a better sense of whether the A45 AMG is the right fit for your needs and driving style.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 4MATIC from 2017 is a remarkable hot hatch that offers an impressive blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. Its handcrafted AMG engine delivers exhilarating power, while its 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent handling and grip. The interior is well-appointed with premium materials and advanced technology features, creating a comfortable and engaging driving environment. While it may have higher maintenance costs and a firmer ride compared to some other hatchbacks, the A45 AMG is a true driver's car that's sure to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. If you're looking for a high-performance hatchback that stands out from the crowd, the 2017 A45 AMG is definitely worth considering. It's a car that embodies the spirit of AMG, delivering an unforgettable driving experience that's both thrilling and rewarding. Happy driving, folks!