Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG 4Matic Shooting Brake (2027)

Intelligent front booster motor: Power on demand

The HP.EDU at the front comprises an axial flux motor, a spur gearbox with integrated parking lock, a liquid-cooled silicon carbide (SiC) inverter and a pump control unit. Although the front drive acts as a "booster motor", it is not only engaged when additional power is required, but also to optimise efficiency. The front motor can deliver up to 225 kW (360 hp) of peak power. The Disconnect Unit (DCU) disconnects the electric motor in a fraction of a second under low load to minimise drag losses and reconnects it during acceleration or energy recovery for optimum power delivery. Alternatively, drive power can be supplied exclusively via the rear axle. The advantage of the system is that the additional power is only activated when it is needed.

AMG Performance 4MATIC+: Fully variable and intelligent all-wheel drive

The three completely independent axial flux motors allow for maximum variable torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. Furthermore, the drive torque can be distributed individually between the two rear wheels (torque vectoring). This results in a newly designed, fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. As well as offering a high level of driving safety, the system also delivers plenty of driving pleasure. Optimal drive torque control is continuous and situation-based. The imperceptible switch from rear-wheel drive to all-wheel drive - and vice versa - is based on a sophisticated matrix that integrates the control algorithms into the overall vehicle system architecture. To ensure optimum traction and driving stability on snow and ice, sensors detect spinning wheels in milliseconds and distribute the torque precisely in accordance with the driving situation. As all electric motors are controlled independently of one another, drive power is maintained at an optimum level.

New benchmark in its class: High-performance battery with a capacity of 94 kWh

The axial flux motors in the CLA45 4MATIC+ draw their power from a lithium-ion battery with a usable energy capacity of 94 kWh. This is a top figure in its segment and crucial to the excellent range of over 670 kilometres (saloon) and 640 kilometres (Shooting Brake). The cells feature anodes in which silicon oxide is mixed with graphite. Compared with batteries featuring conventional graphite anodes, this allows the gravimetric energy density to be increased by up to 20 per cent. The volumetric energy density of this cell chemistry is 680 Wh/l.

To achieve maximum power output, the Mercedes-AMG development team adapted the operating window of the newly developed energy storage system - used for the first time in the new Mercedes-Benz GLC - to the high-performance requirements in the CLA45 4MATIC+. Particular attention was paid to maintaining the cells within an optimal temperature range. This is crucial for consistent power output and the battery's longevity, even under extreme conditions.

800-volt technology for ultra-fast charging

The high voltage of the lithium-ion energy storage system - 800 volts - also contributes to the overall performance. The advantages of this high voltage setup include reduced weight due to lighter cabling, higher continuous power output and shorter battery charging times. Charging losses via the charging cable are also significantly lower. As a result, DC charging from 10 to 80 percent State of Charge (SoC) takes just 22 minutes at a peak charging power of 330 kW - about the same time as a snack and coffee break. In just ten minutes, a range of more than 270 kilometres can be recharged.

Multi-source heat pump optimises charging performance

The standard multi-source heat pump plays a key role in the excellent charging performance of the CLA45 4MATIC+. It forms part of the air conditioning system and can utilise three energy sources simultaneously: the ambient air, waste heat from the powertrain, and the battery. Before fast charging, it brings the high-voltage battery to the ideal temperature range. The battery is integrated into the intelligent thermal management system. If navigation with Electric Intelligence is activated, it is preheated while driving if necessary. This preconditioning ensures that it reaches the optimum temperature for fast DC charging at the selected charging point. To ensure that efficiency does not come at the expense of thermal comfort, the interior remains at a pleasant temperature during fast charging.

AMG sports suspension, seven drive modes and active aerodynamics

The new CLA45 4MATIC+ channels its brute power onto the road via an AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with steel springs and adaptive three-way damping. It is based on a three-link front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. All suspension components, springs and dampers have been thoroughly revised to achieve higher maximum lateral acceleration while maintaining easy controllability at the limits of the car's performance. The damper characteristic curve can be preselected in three modes - "Comfort", "Sport" and "AMGFORCE S+" - thereby enabling a noticeable distinction between high levels of comfort and sporty driving dynamics.

The three-link front suspension comprises the transverse and compression struts in the lower link plane. Both links are forged aluminium components. As with a McPherson strut suspension, the strut guides the wheel and is directly connected to the steering knuckle. The third link, the track rod, forms part of the rack-and-pinion steering system. With the rear multi-link suspension, Mercedes-AMG is bringing the concept - renowned for its wheel-guiding qualities in higher classes - to this segment as well.

Characteristics at the touch of a finger: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT

With the six AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes "Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "AMGFORCE S+", "ECO" and "Individual", the driver can influence the characteristics of the CLA45 4MATIC+ in an instant. In addition, the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package comes with the "RACE" driving programme. The differentiation ranges from efficient and comfortable to very sporty. Important parameters such as the response of the chassis, steering and accelerator pedal, ESP®, and recuperation are modified.

• Comfort: Standard mode for everyday driving on short and long journeys. Offers a comfortable, harmonious driving experience with a well-balanced set-up. Efficient operating strategy with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive depending on the situation. Understeering behaviour, pleasant steering effort, a restrained accelerator pedal and harmonious suspension comfort.
• Sport: Typical AMG driving dynamics for public roads with a superbly balanced set-up and high performance. Performance takes precedence over efficiency and comfort. Permanent all-wheel drive for high cornering speeds. Direct steering response with substantial steering effort, direct accelerator pedal response and firm suspension tuning.
• AMGFORCE S+: Delivers maximum excitement with the perfect internal combustion engine simulation. Extroverted, powerful and awe-inspiring. Multisensory feedback through tactile gear changes and the AMG four-cylinder sound. Seat shakers generate vibrations, while the display shows the rev counter and gear indicator. The powertrain simulates gear changes similar to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT transmission with manual shifting via steering wheel paddles.
• RACE: Uncompromising track mode for the best lap times. Additional features such as Traction Control, Response Control and Agility Control are available. Driver assistance systems intervene less. Permanent all-wheel drive, immediate throttle response, firm suspension and a lower ride height. Launch Control enables maximum acceleration from a standstill with a choreographed build-up: sound, automatic seatbelt tensioning, specific lighting and vibrations before the explosive start.
• Slippery: Stable set-up for maximum traction on low-friction surfaces (rain, snow, ice, wet leaves). Driver assistance systems intervene early; ESP® and traction control provide support appropriate to the situation. Permanent all-wheel drive, understeering handling with low steering effort, a restrained accelerator pedal and a soft suspension.
• ECO: Maximises range by sensibly deactivating electrical consumers. Reduces power, torque and top speed. Pure rear-wheel drive with the front axle disconnected.
• Individual: Allows personalised configuration of all parameters.

But those are not all of the setting options: The company's own software platform, MB.OS, enables even more driving pleasure in the CLA45 4MATIC+ at the touch of a button. The left-hand steering wheel control (round rotary push-button) allows you, among other things, to individually adjust the accelerator pedal response curve and ESP® settings in various stages, regardless of the selected driving programme.

Active aerodynamics: Intelligent spoilers enhance efficiency and dynamism

A first in this class and a visible statement of performance, the active rear spoiler on the saloon and the roof-edge spoiler on the Shooting Brake optimise the aerodynamic balance and, consequently, the vehicle's efficiency and dynamism. A clever touch on the Shooting Brake: The active roof-edge spoiler is black at the transition from the glass roof and painted in the body colour towards the outer edge. This creates the impression that the panoramic roof extends right into the rear window, lending the rear a unique elegance. At low speeds, the active spoilers, seamlessly integrated into the design, remain fully retracted. This ensures a clean appearance when stationary and at low speeds.

Depending on the driving mode, the active rear and roof-edge spoilers adopt different angles to either ensure the necessary driving stability or minimise aerodynamic drag, thereby optimising range to suit every driving situation. In the ECO, Comfort and Sport driving modes, this speed threshold is 145 km/h. In the AMGFORCE S+ and RACE driving modes, the spoilers are activated immediately. Furthermore, the spoilers can be controlled manually at any time, for example via the controls on the AMG sports steering wheel. The position of the active spoiler is controlled based on various parameters, including longitudinal acceleration and the position of other active aerodynamic systems, such as the active radiator louvres.

Active radiator fins reduce drag and increase range

The further developed active radiator fins at the front also contribute to increasing the efficiency and dynamics of the Mercedes-AMG CLA45 4MATIC+. They are optimised in such a way that, compared with the standard version, they can remain closed almost up to a speed of 250 km/h. This enables low air resistance, maximum range and better acceleration values. Furthermore, the air is directed specifically towards the underbody in order to reduce downforce on the front axle. Only when certain temperatures have been reached on predefined components and the cooling air requirement is particularly high do the fins open and air flows to the cooling module. The fins are controlled independently of each other in eight stages until they are fully opened, depending on the cooling requirements.

Unmistakably AMG: Original combustion engine sound

The AMGFORCE S+ driving programme creates an unparalleled and immersive driving experience with authentic traction shift interruptions, active seat shakers and a customised driver display. In addition, AMGFORCE S+ brings the original sound directly into the vehicle. For the CLA45 4MATIC+, the sound design specialists at Mercedes-AMG recreated it with the highest level of detail. The team took an uncompromising approach: instead of creating synthetic sounds, the sound of an original AMG four-cylinder engine was meticulously documented. A Mercedes-AMG A 45 S served as the reference vehicle, which was analysed on a chassis dynamometer both at a standstill and under load, with the aim of digitally reproducing every facet of the original AMG sound. For this purpose, 13 microphones positioned in different locations recorded more than 1,600 detailed measurements, both inside and outside.

The underlying technology is the result of consistent engineering work: an intelligent real-time mixing system draws on more than 1,600 audio files to acoustically stage every driving situation. Filters, burbling effects, acceleration sequences: the entire acoustic spectrum of a modern performance car can be experienced. The result is typical AMG: uncompromising, unique, aggressive. The sound world goes beyond pure driving noises and includes other features: a deep, dull bass noise when approaching the vehicle and unlocking; two dark palpitations as a welcome sound when boarding; two confirming heartbeats when the vehicle is locked; a concise boom when plugging in the charging cable; and a characterful electric hum when charging starts. With the sound slider, customers can activate and customise other sound worlds beyond the engine sound. They can choose between "Powerful", "Balanced" and "Minimal", combined with a scale from "Classic" to "Futuristic" - pure sound tuning in the interior.

AMG TRACK PACE: The on-board digital racing coach

A treat for racing fans: the RACE programme features the integrated AMG TRACK PACE personal racing coach. Whilst driving, the software records over 80 vehicle-specific data points, ten times per second. As well as displaying telemetry, acceleration and racing data, along with lap and sector times, in real time on the multimedia display, head-up display and instrument cluster, the system includes professional training and analysis tools. Many race circuits, such as the Nürburgring and Spa-Francorchamps, are already pre-loaded. Users can also record and analyse their own favourite lap routes.

The smart race navigation in the head-up display visualises corner radii and ideal braking points, thereby helping drivers find the ideal line. The impressive, augmented reality technology of MBUX also allows recorded footage of the racing line to be displayed on the multimedia screen. This enables drivers to optimise their times from lap to lap and push their limits further.

The optional dashcam feature (not available in all markets) also allows you to record professional-quality videos using the vehicle's built-in HD camera and save them to a USB storage device - ideal for sharing with the community or for your personal video archive. Lap and sector times, a small track map and vehicle-specific information such as speed, acceleration or steering angle can be displayed on screen.

Smart racing with the Predictive Performance Manager

The Predictive Performance Manager (PPM) plays a key role in achieving optimum lap times on the racetrack. The tool optimises energy flow depending on the selected driving mode. This is done directly within the operating strategy, tailored to specific sections of the track and the current situation. Background: On long race circuits or over many laps on Grand Prix circuits, constantly drawing on maximum power is not the best way to achieve the fastest lap times. The PPM therefore reduces or increases power output as appropriate for the situation, depending on the section of the track.

Powerful brakes with strong energy recovery

For reasons of efficiency, most braking manoeuvres in the CLA45 4MATIC+ are carried out entirely by means of energy recovery. In principle, the vehicle can even brake electrically right down to a standstill, thereby recovering kinetic energy. The high deceleration (up to 5 m/s²) means more energy is recovered and, ultimately, a longer range. Even when the ABS is engaged or on an icy road surface, the CLA45 4MATIC+ can recuperate. Drivers can choose between five levels of energy recovery. During emergency braking and in demanding circuit driving, the hydraulic braking system also comes into play. On the front axle, braking is provided by 390 x 36 millimetre internally ventilated brake discs with 6-piston fixed callipers; on the rear axle, by 350 x 22 millimetre internally ventilated brake discs with 1-piston floating callipers.

An emotive appearance with a distinctive front end and active rear and roof spoilers

The highly dynamic characteristics of the new Mercedes-AMG CLA45 4MATIC+ are also evident in the expressive design, which gives both model variants a strong presence and hints at the breathtaking experience that awaits drivers behind the wheel.

The most distinctive feature is the AMG-specific radiator grille. With ten vertical Panamericana struts in high-gloss chrome or dark chrome and a Mercedes-Benz star integrated in the centre against a high-gloss black panel, it clearly signals its heritage from the AMG Performance family. Its sporty character is emphasised by omitting the typical light strip between the sharply contoured, narrow headlamps - a feature that enhances the car's high-performance appearance. On request, the continuous light strip, combined with the illuminated radiator grille, is also available for this compact top-of-the-range sports car.

Athletic proportions with excellent aerodynamic performance

Distinctive features also characterise the AMG-specific front apron. The front splitter merges seamlessly into the side air curtains in front of the front wheels, which optimise airflow and thus improve aerodynamic performance and the drag coefficient. The athletic appearance is further emphasised by the widened front wings with flared wheel arches. They create space for the wider front axle. The sporty proportions are further enhanced by the low-slung greenhouse, the aerodynamically advantageous, elongated bonnet with shark nose and power domes, and the alloy or optional forged wheels that sit flush with the wheel arches. As standard, the CLA45 4MATIC+ runs on 19-inch wheels with tyres in the sizes 245/40 ZR19 98Y XL at the front and 265/40 ZR19 102Y XL at the rear. Optional 20-inch designs are available with tyres in sizes 255/35 ZR20 97Y XL and HL 275/35 ZR20 104Y XL.

The long wheelbase (2,790 millimetres), the short overhangs and the iconic Shooting Brake roofline, which stretches flat and fluidly far towards the rear, are an emotional expression of athletic power. Viewed from the side, the wider AMG side skirts in high-gloss black with matt chrome trim lower the CLA45 4MATIC+, so that it appears to lurk lower on the road. In true sports car style, the exterior mirrors sit directly on the front doors.

In addition to its high-performance character, the standard glass roof with a heat-reflective coating offers a tangible sense of freedom with an almost unobstructed view of the sky. It extends seamlessly from the windscreen frame to the rear and allows plenty of light into the interior. Heat-insulating laminated safety glass is used to protect against sunlight. The outer layer is fitted with a 250-nanometre-thin infrared film. This reflects long-wave radiation, thereby reducing any glare.

The rear view is pure AMG too. It is characterised by the wide AMG rear apron and the sharply defined diffuser with a total of six fins, which extends forwards in the centre of the car, thereby enhancing its effectiveness.

Even more striking look with AMG Night Packages and selected equipment options

With a selection of individual options and carefully coordinated equipment packages, customers can further sharpen the high-performance appearance of the CLA45 4MATIC+. In addition to 20-inch alloy and forged wheels in various designs, these also include AMG-specific paint finishes. The look is made even sportier with the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package, which stands out visually with red-painted brake callipers with black AMG lettering, or alternatively with black brake callipers with white AMG lettering.

The dynamic styling of the CLA45 4MATIC+ is further enhanced by the AMG Night Package I, featuring design and aerodynamic elements in high-gloss black. For example, the front splitter, the inserts in the side skirts, the wing mirror housings, the window surrounds and the trim strips on the diffuser. The package also includes dark-tinted rear and rear side windows, as well as interior air vents in Dark Chrome. Depending on the vehicle's specification (including Keyless-Go), door handles in Dark Chrome are also included.

To further accentuate the striking look, the AMG Night Package I can be expanded to include the AMG Night Package II. This comprises the front grille with vertical slats, as well as the AMG crest at the front, the Mercedes-Benz star and the lettering at the rear in Dark Chrome.

Performance seats, fourth-generation MBUX with AI integration and AMG-specific apps

The interior of the CLA45 4MATIC+ reinforces the vehicle's consistently dynamic character with numerous individual details. With its sporty features, anatomically contoured sports seats and the new generation of the MBUX infotainment system, it connects driver and machine in an intense, personal way, allowing them to merge into a single entity. The design of the saloon and Shooting Brake as pure four-seaters also testifies to their uncompromisingly sporty character. The standard centre armrest adds an extra touch of comfort to the rear seats.

Typical of AMG: the driver and front passenger are seated in a driving-oriented position with firm lateral support on contoured sports seats. The standard upholstery, combining ARTICO leather-look trim in Nappa-look with black MICROCUT microfibre, features red decorative stitching to create accents typical of AMG. Alternatively, the ARTICO Nappa-look/MICROCUT microfibre upholstery in a two-tone black/clean white pearl colourway with red decorative stitching is available. Seats in Nappa-look/MICROCUT microfibre in a two-tone black/power red colourway are also available.

Leather upholstery in black, beech brown and black with green accents and contrasting stitching is also available for the interior. The combination of black with contrast stitching and inserts in the side bolsters and backrest in race yellow rounds off the range. This is complemented by red MANUFAKTUR seat belts (optional) and specific black-and-silver aluminium trim elements in AMG design.

The distinctive, sporty AMG ambience is further enhanced by the brushed stainless-steel sports pedals with rubber studs, black front floor mats featuring AMG lettering, the black fabric headlining and the AMG front door sills in brushed stainless steel, also featuring AMG lettering. Also fitted as standard is the AMG Performance steering wheel in Nappa leather with contrast stitching to match the seat upholstery, and AMG steering wheel controls. Alternatively, the Performance steering wheel in MICROCUT microfibre and the AMG Performance steering wheel in Nappa leather/MICROCUT microfibre are available.

Emotional driving experience with seat shakers and AMG Performance seats

Mercedes-AMG, however, does not stop at a sporty interior. The driving experience of the CLA45 4MATIC+ becomes even more exhilarating thanks to the standard front seat shakers, which deliver authentic vibrations as part of the standard AMGFORCE system. In the AMGFORCE S+ programme, they emit vibrations calibrated to mimic those of a combustion engine.

The optional AMG Performance seats, featuring integrated headrests, larger side bolsters, seat heating, and memory and multi-contour functions, are also fitted with these shakers. Customers can choose between versions with ARTICO or ARTICO/MICROCUT microfibre upholstery and leather trim; the latter features a chrome trim strip with an illuminated AMG logo and seat climate control.

Fourth-generation MBUX: Interaction with the vehicle on a new level

Even more intuitive, even more individual: In the new CLA45 4MATIC+, the fourth generation of MBUX is used. It is based on the company's own new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS). The new generation of MBUX is also the first infotainment system in a car to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) from ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini. It is thus revolutionising the interaction between the vehicle and its passengers. Take the MBUX Virtual Assistant, for example: this represents the next stage in the evolution of the MBUX voice assistant and goes far beyond simply responding to commands. Rather, the MBUX Virtual Assistant is capable of conducting complex, multi-part dialogues. The MBUX Virtual Assistant appears as a "lively" avatar on the MBUX Zero Layer, complete with dynamic colours and animations.

Keep an eye on performance at all times with dedicated AMG apps

In addition to the familiar Mercedes-Benz apps, exclusive apps in the CLA45 4MATIC+ help drivers get the most out of their vehicle's performance: AMG PERFORMANCE MENU, AMG SET-UP and "AMG TRACK PACE".

AMG PERFORMANCE MENU provides drivers with the most important driving and engine data in real time, making performance visible. The app clearly visualises the energy flow, shows at a glance the power output of the axial flux motors on the front and rear axles, and indicates when the vehicle and tyres have reached their optimum operating temperature. In addition, AMG PERFORMANCE MENU displays lateral acceleration values and tyre pressure in real time. For full control over the available electric power, the battery status can be checked and monitored at all times.

AMG SET-UP allows various functions to be actively adjusted to configure the vehicle according to individual preferences. This includes, amongst other things, the order of the driving programmes and AMGFORCE elements on the steering wheel buttons for even more intuitive operation and even faster access to the most important features. The vehicle's sound characteristics can also be customised. One exception is the AMGFORCE S+ mode, which exclusively features an authentic internal combustion engine sound.