The Mercedes-Benz CLA Coupe (C117) AMG CLA 45 4MATIC, produced from January 2013 to August 2015, represented a significant entry into the high-performance compact segment for Mercedes-Benz. Positioned as the flagship variant of the C117 CLA Coupe range, it combined aggressive styling with potent performance derived from a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This model was crucial in attracting a younger demographic to the Mercedes-Benz brand, offering a blend of luxury, sportiness, and advanced technology. It was built on the MFA (Modular Front-wheel drive Architecture) platform, shared with other compact Mercedes-Benz models like the A-Class and GLA.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Coupe (C117) |
| Type | AMG CLA 45 (360 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-DCT |
| Start of production | January, 2013 |
| End of production | August, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1-8.8 l/100 km (25.8 – 26.7 US mpg, 31 – 32.1 UK mpg, 11 – 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9-5.8 l/100 km (39.9 – 40.6 US mpg, 47.9 – 48.7 UK mpg, 16.9 – 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1-6.9 l/100 km (33.1 – 34.1 US mpg, 39.8 – 40.9 UK mpg, 14.1 – 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 165-161 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp, 227.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 283.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 180.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 2250-5000 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 2250-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 133.980 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 8.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1585 kg (3494.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2075 kg (4574.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Length | 4630 mm (182.28 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Height | 1432 mm (56.38 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2699 mm (106.26 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission G-DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the AMG CLA 45 was the M133 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. This engine was a highly sophisticated unit, hand-assembled at Mercedes-AMG’s Affalterbach facility, adhering to the “one man, one engine” philosophy. It featured direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and a reinforced crankshaft to handle the high output. The engine code, M133.980, signified its specific tuning for the CLA 45. The engine produced 360 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 331.9 lb-ft of torque between 2250 and 5000 rpm. This level of output from a 2.0-liter engine was, at the time, a record for production cars. The 7G-DCT (7-speed dual-clutch transmission) was specifically tuned for rapid shifts and efficient power delivery. It featured paddle shifters for manual control and multiple driving modes, including a Race Start launch control function.
Driving Characteristics
The AMG CLA 45 offered a distinctly sporty driving experience. The combination of the powerful engine, all-wheel-drive system (4MATIC), and the quick-shifting 7G-DCT resulted in impressive acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.4 seconds. While the engine delivered substantial power, the relatively small displacement meant that peak torque was available across a broad rev range, minimizing turbo lag. The 4MATIC system provided excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to the standard CLA 180 or 250 models, the AMG CLA 45 offered a much firmer suspension setup and more responsive steering. The ride quality was noticeably stiffer, prioritizing handling over comfort. The gear ratios in the 7G-DCT were optimized for acceleration, with shorter ratios in the lower gears.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AMG CLA 45 came standard with a comprehensive list of features, reflecting its position as the range-topping model. Interior appointments included sport seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Dinamica microfiber, an AMG steering wheel, and aluminum pedal pads. Standard technology included a 5.8-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included a larger 7-inch display, a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Exterior features included AMG-specific body styling, including a front splitter, side skirts, and a rear diffuser.
Chassis & Braking
The chassis of the AMG CLA 45 was significantly upgraded compared to the standard CLA models. It featured a stiffer suspension setup with revised springs and dampers. The front suspension utilized a multi-link design, while the rear suspension also employed a multi-link setup. Braking performance was enhanced with larger, ventilated discs at all four corners. The AMG CLA 45 also featured a more direct steering ratio for improved responsiveness. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system was a sophisticated system that could vary the torque split between the front and rear axles depending on driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The AMG CLA 45 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its impressive performance, engaging driving dynamics, and stylish design. However, some critics noted that the ride quality was firm and that the interior, while well-appointed, lacked the ultimate luxury feel of some of its competitors. Compared to other performance compacts of the time, such as the Audi S3 and the BMW M235i, the AMG CLA 45 offered a unique combination of power, technology, and styling. Fuel economy was respectable for a high-performance vehicle, averaging around 33 mpg combined. Reliability reports have been generally positive, although some owners have reported issues with the turbocharger and the dual-clutch transmission.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA 45 established a new benchmark for performance in the compact segment. It demonstrated that a small, four-cylinder engine could deliver exhilarating performance when combined with advanced technology and meticulous engineering. The M133 engine became a cornerstone of Mercedes-AMG’s powertrain strategy, and its success paved the way for future high-performance compact models. On the used car market today, the AMG CLA 45 remains a desirable option for enthusiasts seeking a sporty and stylish coupe. Well-maintained examples command a premium price, and the powertrain, while requiring diligent maintenance, has proven to be relatively durable over the long term.
