Skip advert
Advertisement

Mercedes-AMG A45 review - is AMG's hot hatch capable of bringing the fight to the Focus RS? - Performance and 0-60 time

Incredible performance and grip, but lacking the involvement and fun that a great hot hatch requires

Evo rating
RRP
from £39,995
  • Blisteringly quick
  • Not quite as rewarding as less powerful and cheaper rivals

On paper the A45 AMG boasts some pretty incredible figures. A 4.2 second 0-62mph time (0.4 sec quicker than the pre-facelift model), is matched with an electronically limited 167mph top speed when the car is optioned with the AMG Driver’s Package.

Peak power is generated at 6000rpm, while the car’s maximum 350lb ft of torque is sustained between 2250rpm-5000rpm. As such, the A45 feels potent low down the rev-range and continues to accelerate relentlessly through every gear change. Acceleration from standstill when launch control is used is a savage and a step above every other hot hatch on the market.

Advertisement - Article continues below

In short, the A45’s engine makes all of its 375bhp known, offering incredible levels of pace from its responsive and tractable engine. On a British B-road, the A45 would be able to keep pace with far more exotic and much more powerful machinery. 

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

MST Mk1 Evo is an extreme Ford Escort road rally recreation
MST Mk1 Evo front
News

MST Mk1 Evo is an extreme Ford Escort road rally recreation

MST’s Mk1 Evo is a tarmac rally weapon that only vaguely resembles a Ford Escort
7 Jul 2026
One-off Ferrari 599 shooting brake is the dream supercar estate
Niels van Roij Daytona Shooting Brake Hommage front
News

One-off Ferrari 599 shooting brake is the dream supercar estate

If a Ferrari FF isn’t quite to your taste, or a bit too common, why not commission a coachbuilder for a one-off 599 shooting brake?
8 Jul 2026
The Red Bull RB17 is alive: F1 stars to drive 15,000rpm V10 special at Goodwood
Red Bull RB17
News

The Red Bull RB17 is alive: F1 stars to drive 15,000rpm V10 special at Goodwood

Red Bull’s rival to the Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro and GMA T.50s Niki Lauda goes to the ultimate extreme, and we'll see it in action for the first …
8 Jul 2026