Mercedes is working on a completely redesigned GLA-Class compact crossover for a while, and we have some completely new spy shots and videos of the topping AMG version.
Yes, AMG is offering two performance levels for the latest generation of Mercedes compact cars. In this case, there will be a direct replacement for the current GLA45 and a new GLA3. Our latest images show the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA45.
We are sure this is the GLA45 thanks to the multiple horizontal slats in the grille. The GLA35, for example, only has a single bar. The testing model also has four exhaust tips at the rear, which is another giveaway since the GLA35 stays limited to just two tips.
AMG has already revealed the new A45 and CLA45, so it’s pretty obvious what’s going to burn tires of the new 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA45. The luxurious compact SUV will come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 delivering 382 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque in standard guise and 416 hp and 369 lb-ft in S guise. An 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and rear-biased all-wheel-drive will be standard, and the combo should result in 0-60 mph acceleration in less than 4.0 seconds.
In addition to the potent powertrain, the GLA45 will also feature the latest version of AMG’s all-wheel-drive system for compact cars. That’s highly important because the rear-biased system not only splits torque between the front and rear axles but does the same between the rear wheels thanks to a rear diff with two multi-plate clutches. This way the AMG engineers are able to craft a Drift mode designed to create sideways action more controlled.
As for the less potent 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA35, this one will comes fitted with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 limited to 302 hp and 295 lb-ft. It’s hooked to a 7-speed dual-clutch and all-wheel drive with a 50:50 front-to-rear split.
The redesigned AMG GLA35 and GLA45 should arrive at dealerships at roughly the same time, which is in mid-2020 as a 2021 model.
