2018 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 & GLA 45 launched in India

Face-lifted versions of the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 and GLA 45 go on sale with a raft of cosmetic updates. 

After launching the CLA and GLA facelift earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz has now launched the updated AMG derivatives of both the cars in India. The new CLA 45 AMG is now your entry-ticket to the Mercedes' high-performance range at Rs 75.20 lakh, while the GLA 45 AMG facelift at Rs 77.85 lakh is the most affordable AMG SUV in the country. Both the cars are also available in ‘Aero Edition’ that adds a unique black/yellow paint scheme. The GLA 45 Aero Edition is priced at Rs 80.67 lakh and the CLA 45 Aero Edition carries a price-tag of Rs 77.69 lakh. All prices are ex-showroom, pan-India.

The updated CLA 45 AMG and GLA 45 AMG gain a few cosmetic updates over their respective outgoing models. Changes are few and far between, though. Updates include a new boot lid spoiler, new front apron with front splitter inserts in matt titanium grey and high-gloss black flics on both the models. Not only do these updates make these cars look sharper, but they also improve the aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicles, claims the maker. In addition to this, LED headlamps now come as standard in both the models.

Both the CLA 45 and GLA 45 AMG models are mechanically unchanged, but you shouldn’t be complaining about that. That’s because power is sourced from the same 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol that develops 375bhp and 475Nm of torque. Power reserves from the engine are channelled to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Mercedes’ 4MATIC AWD system.  

Performance wise, the CLA 45 AMG will clock 0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds, while the GLA 45 AMG will do the same run in 4.4 seconds. Top speed will be electronically limited to 250kmp/h in both the cars.

As for the competition, the CLA 45 AMG will go against the Volvo S60 Polestar – which is considerably more affordable – and its own sibling, the C43 AMG. For the time being, the GLA 45 AMG doesn’t have a rival in the country.