The Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W176) AMG A 45 4MATIC, produced from 2013 to 2015, represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of hot hatches. This high-performance variant, equipped with the M133 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, established a new benchmark for power density and driving dynamics in the compact luxury segment. Positioned as the flagship of the W176 A-Class range, the A 45 aimed to deliver a compelling alternative to established rivals like the Audi S3 and BMW M135i, offering a unique blend of everyday practicality and exhilarating performance. It was a key model in Mercedes-AMG’s strategy to expand its portfolio and appeal to a broader customer base.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A-Class |
| Generation | A-Class (W176) |
| Type | AMG A 45 (360 Hp) 4MATIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.8-9.1 l/100 km (26.7 – 25.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8-5.9 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9-7.1 l/100 km (34.1 – 33.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 161-165 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 2250-5000 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 2250-5000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6700 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 |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2050 kg (4519.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (min) | 341 l (12.04 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (max) | 1157 l (40.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4359 mm (171.61 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2022 mm (79.61 in.) |
| Height | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2699 mm (106.26 in.) |
| Front track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Rear track | 1561 mm (61.46 in.) |
| Front overhang | 940 mm (37.01 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 720 mm (28.35 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.04 m (36.22 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×32 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×22 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A 45 4MATIC is the M133 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This powerplant is a highly sophisticated unit, notable for its hand-assembled nature – a tradition carried over from AMG’s larger engines. The engine features a twin-scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection, and a reinforced crankshaft to handle the substantial power output. The cylinder head incorporates four valves per cylinder and a durable valvetrain designed for high-revving performance. The M133 engine produces 360 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 331.9 lb-ft of torque between 2,250 and 5,000 rpm. This translates to an impressive specific output of 180.8 hp per liter.
Paired with the engine is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. This transmission offers incredibly fast and precise gear changes, contributing significantly to the car’s acceleration and overall driving experience. The DCT features multiple driving modes, including a Comfort mode for everyday driving, a Sport mode for more aggressive shifts, and a Manual mode for complete driver control. The transmission is also equipped with a launch control function, optimizing engine and transmission settings for maximum acceleration from a standstill.
Driving Characteristics
The A 45 4MATIC delivers a remarkably engaging driving experience. The combination of the potent engine, quick-shifting transmission, and all-wheel-drive system results in blistering acceleration and confident handling. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system is a multi-clutch system that actively distributes torque between the front and rear axles, optimizing traction and stability in various driving conditions. While the power delivery is strong throughout the rev range, the engine truly comes alive above 3,000 rpm, providing a thrilling surge of acceleration. Compared to lower-powered A-Class variants, the A 45 offers a significantly more responsive and dynamic driving experience. The suspension is firmer, providing better body control, but it can be slightly less comfortable on rough road surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A 45 4MATIC came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including sport seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, aluminum pedal pads, and unique AMG body styling. Interior upholstery typically consisted of a combination of leather and Dinamica microfiber. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. The dashboard featured AMG-specific gauges and instrumentation, further enhancing the sporty ambiance.
Chassis & Braking
The A 45 4MATIC features a specially tuned chassis with stiffer springs and dampers compared to other A-Class models. The front suspension utilizes McPherson struts, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link setup. Braking performance is provided by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with larger rotors and upgraded calipers compared to the standard A-Class. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, ensuring optimal braking performance in emergency situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A 45 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its impressive performance, engaging handling, and relatively affordable price point. It was often lauded as a game-changer in the hot hatch segment, offering a level of performance previously unseen in a compact hatchback. Compared to the standard A-Class models, the A 45 offered significantly improved performance and handling, but at the expense of some fuel economy and ride comfort. The A 45’s fuel economy figures of around 34 mpg combined were respectable for a high-performance vehicle, but lower than those of the more economical A-Class variants.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz A 45 4MATIC (W176) established a strong foundation for future AMG models and demonstrated the brand’s commitment to delivering high-performance vehicles in a variety of segments. The M133 engine, while later superseded by the M139, remains a highly regarded powerplant known for its power and responsiveness. Today, the W176 A 45 4MATIC remains a desirable used car, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a thrilling and practical hot hatch. While some maintenance costs may be higher than those of lower-powered A-Class models, the A 45’s robust build quality and proven reliability make it a compelling choice for those seeking a high-performance compact car.
