Mercedes-AMG has revealed the new-generation CLA 45 4MATIC+, marking a major shift for the performance sedan. Unlike the previous model, which was powered by a turbocharged petrol engine, the latest CLA 45 is now fully electric. It will be offered in both sedan and Shooting Brake body styles.
Power comes from a 94 kWh LFP battery pack paired with three electric motors – one at the front and two at the rear. The setup produces a peak output of 680 HP and 1759 Nm of torque, while continuous output is rated at 612 HP. Mercedes-AMG says the front motor can disengage during steady driving to improve efficiency, allowing the car to operate in rear-wheel-drive mode when required. The dual rear motors also enable torque vectoring and a dedicated Drift Mode.
Despite weighing close to 2.3 tonnes, the sedan is claimed to accelerate from 0-100 km/hr in 3.0 seconds, while the Shooting Brake completes the sprint in 3.2 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/hr, which can be increased to 270 km/hr with the optional AMG Dynamic Plus Package. The performance EV also features adaptive sports suspension and seven selectable driving modes.
To retain some of the character associated with AMG’s combustion models, Mercedes has introduced an AMGFORCE S+ mode. It recreates the sound of the brand’s M139 turbocharged four-cylinder engine and simulates gear shifts, power interruptions and seat vibrations to deliver a more familiar driving experience.
The CLA 45 sedan offers a claimed WLTP driving range of up to 670 km, while the Shooting Brake is rated for 640 km. The EV supports 330 kW DC fast charging, enabling a 10-80 percent charge in approximately 22 minutes. Mercedes also claims that a 10-minute charging session can add up to 270 km of range.
Visually, the AMG variant receives several model-specific styling changes. These include a redesigned front fascia with a 10-slat AMG grille, larger air intakes, wider wheel arches, side skirts and a more prominent rear diffuser. The sedan also gets an active rear spoiler, while the Shooting Brake features a roof-mounted spoiler. Standard 19-inch alloy wheels are offered, with 20-inch wheels available as an option.
Inside, the cabin adopts a more performance-focused layout with AMG bucket seats, a sport steering wheel featuring dedicated drive mode controls and black upholstery with contrast detailing. The dashboard houses Mercedes-Benz’s Hyperscreen setup, which includes a digital instrument cluster, central touchscreen and passenger display. The instrument cluster also features a virtual tachometer and gear indicator that work alongside the AMGFORCE S+ mode. Unlike the standard CLA, the AMG version has two individual rear seats, giving it a four-seat cabin configuration.
