Skip advert
Advertisement

Mercedes CLA 45 AMG 2014 review

The Mercedes CLA 45 AMG is a stylish alternative to the powerful A45 AMG hatchback

The Mercedes CLA 45 AMG might bring scintillating performance and a boost in boot space, but the £3,000 premium over the A45 AMG is hard to stomach unless you’re really sold on the CLA’s style. It feels a bit less raucous than its hatchback sibling, too, and if you start ticking too many options boxes it gets scarily expensive. There’s a lot to like, though, if you can afford the steep asking price.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Some thought Mercedes had lost its mind when it started to build four-cylinder AMG models, but the Mercedes CLA 45 AMG and A45 prove that tuning partner AMG understands more than just V8s.

Mercedes CLA 45 AMG review

The CLA 45 AMG’s 2.0-litre engine is a 355bhp turbo, getting the car from 0-62mph in just 4.6 seconds, and we’ve driven it in the UK for the first time.

Aside from a different body, the A45 and CLA 45 are all but identical. All that power is delivered to all four wheels, meaning traction isn’t an issue – even on damp roads.

The acceleration is entertaining, too, each gearshift signalled by an appealing 'braaap’ from the £460 AMG Performance exhaust. Given the brittle ride of the standard CLA, we approached the AMG version with a fair degree of caution.

Yet despite the 19-inch alloys and suspension tuned for greater roll control and stiffness, the ride remains on the right side of acceptable. It’s undoubtedly firm, but in a manner that’s more sporting than harsh, and the car’s composure over the sort of testing tarmac that makes up the UK’s A and B-roads is surprisingly impressive.

The steering is decently weighted, too, even if the CLA’s responses aren’t quite as quick as the A45’s. In fact, the two cars feel distinct enough to appeal to different audiences.

The CLA adds a touch more comfort and space, although the rear seats are rather compromised in both legroom and ease of access. The 470-litre boot’s more spacious, too, but it’s unlikely a CLA 45 AMG buyer will choose it on practicality alone.

The driving position is fine, and the cabin design, fit and finish are significantly better than in standard cars. AMG badging, sports seats and unique instrumentation only add to that appeal.

One problem, though, is that the CLA’s price quickly creeps up when you add options – you’d have to really love its looks to pick it over the A45 AMG.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £37,230Avg. savings £3,710 off RRP*Used from £15,416
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,672 off RRP*Used from £15,700
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,474 off RRP*Used from £11,995
Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,785Avg. savings £4,614 off RRP*Used from £9,591
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports
MST Ford Escort - front 3/4

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports

While not officially Fords, the MST Mk1 and Mk2 Sports should drive as sharply as they look
News
7 Jul 2025
New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
New Mazda CX-5 revealed with fresh looks, more space and far fewer buttons
Mazda CX-5 - front

New Mazda CX-5 revealed with fresh looks, more space and far fewer buttons

The Mazda CX-5 has been revolutionised to take on the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson
News
10 Jul 2025