2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG A45 S Review

As the benchmark player in the high-performance hatchback segment of the Malaysian market, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG A45 S has attracted the attention of performance enthusiasts with its label of "the most powerful 2.0T" since its launch. In this review, we will focus on three core aspects: whether the actual power output of this 2.0T engine can truly achieve the explosive performance claimed by the official data, whether its track-oriented tuning can also meet daily commute needs, and whether its nearly RM450,000 price tag matches its overall performance.

From a distance, the body lines of the AMG A45 S are more aggressive than those of the regular A-Class. The front features AMG’s iconic vertical-bar grille, coupled with oversized honeycomb air intakes on both sides, visually emphasizing its performance identity. The side profile boasts 19-inch double five-spoke wheels paired with 245/35 R19 wide tires, enhancing grip while making the silhouette appear more compact. At the rear, the quad-round exhaust system and small spoiler are typical design elements of performance cars. The LED taillight assembly adopts a through-bar style with high recognition when lit. The overall design has no unnecessary decorations, with every detail serving either aerodynamics or performance expression.

Sitting inside, the AMG-exclusive sport seats first offer a snug embracing feel. The seats support electric adjustments, and lumbar support and lateral bolstering can be customized to fit your body shape. The center console follows Mercedes' latest dual-screen design. The 10.25-inch full LCD instrument panel and touchscreen provide clear displays, with operational logic consistent with regular Mercedes models, making it easy to get used to. The steering wheel has a flat-bottom design, complete with an AMG logo and paddle shifters, providing a solid grip. The interior materials mainly consist of soft-touch plastics and metal accents, with some areas incorporating Alcantara for a more premium feel. In terms of features, a HUD head-up display, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, and other functions are standard. The rear seats include independent air conditioning vents and USB ports to meet daily usage needs.

In terms of space, the vehicle dimensions are 4445mm×1850mm×1412mm, with a wheelbase of 2729mm. The front headroom has about a fist’s worth of clearance for a 175cm tall passenger, and the legroom is spacious. The rear seat space is average, with about two fists of legroom for a 175cm tall passenger sitting behind, and one fist of headroom, suitable for short trips. The trunk has a capacity of 370L, and the rear seats support a 60:40 split fold, which, when expanded, can accommodate larger items, adding a degree of practicality.

Upon starting the car, a short and distinct exhaust crackle unique to AMG immediately confirms its identity as a performance car. In terms of power, the 2.0T turbocharged engine delivers a maximum horsepower of 421PS and peak torque of 500Nm, paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox and 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system. Switching to SPORT+ mode makes the throttle extremely responsive; when the accelerator is pressed down, the surge of acceleration is immediate. The official 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 3.9 seconds is achievable in actual tests. During overtaking, the gearbox quickly downshifts, and there is no delay in power output. However, in COMFORT mode, the power delivery becomes smoother, making it better suited for daily commuting without overwhelming the driver.

In terms of handling, the steering is precise with minimal play, and you can clearly feel the feedback from the road when turning. The suspension system uses a front MacPherson and rear multi-link independent suspension, which is noticeably tuned to be stiff. When going over speed bumps or uneven roads, the bumpiness is quite direct, but the body roll is extremely well-controlled in corners. Combined with the grip of the all-wheel-drive system, it instills great confidence during cornering. The braking system performs consistently, with no significant fade observed after multiple consecutive brakes, and the braking distance is quite short.

In terms of fuel consumption, the fuel economy in daily urban commutes is around 12-14L/100km, while highway cruising reduces it to 8-9L/100km, meeting the fuel consumption standards for high-performance cars. Noise control is commendable, with wind and tire noise at acceptable levels during high-speed driving. Engine noise is well suppressed in COMFORT mode and is only amplified through the exhaust system in SPORT+ mode.

In summary, the core advantages of the 2020 AMG A45 S lie in its class-leading performance, precise handling tuning, and luxurious Mercedes-Benz features. Compared to its competitors like the Golf R or Audi RS3, the A45 S takes the edge in power figures and offers richer features, though it comes with a relatively higher price. This car is suitable for two types of people: driving enthusiasts who seek ultimate performance to fully unleash its track potential, and young consumers who value brand and features while also appreciating its comfort during daily commutes.

Overall, the AMG A45 S is a model that strikes a good balance between performance and luxury. While its track-oriented tuning sacrifices some daily comfort, for its target users, that is exactly where its charm lies. If you're looking for a high-performance hatchback that can both serve as a daily driver and deliver thrills on the track, it is a choice worth considering.