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

Driving the greatest ’70s supercars, from BMW M1 to Countach – car pictures of the week
1970s supercar test
Features

Driving the greatest ’70s supercars, from BMW M1 to Countach – car pictures of the week

In the latest issue of evo, we revisit 1970s supercar icons from Ferrari, Porsche, Lamborghini, BMW and more. These are our favourite shots
20 Jun 2026
McLaren MSO HS: the secret 205mph special born to save the brand
McLaren MSO 688 HS
Features

McLaren MSO HS: the secret 205mph special born to save the brand

This could just be the best McLaren you’ve never heard of. We get the inside story on the ultra-exclusive, 675LT-based MSO HS
21 Jun 2026
Fiat Grande Panda review – as cool as a Renault 5 but with petrol power
Fiat Grande Panda front
Reviews

Fiat Grande Panda review – as cool as a Renault 5 but with petrol power

Fiat’s take on the retro-modern small car has substance and talent to match its style
22 Jun 2026