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

VW Golf R faces off against Cupra Leon 333 – car pictures of the week
Golf R v Cupra Leon
Features

VW Golf R faces off against Cupra Leon 333 – car pictures of the week

Hot hatches are getting thin on the ground, but the VW stable is still in the game with the Cupra Leon 333 4Drive and Golf R. These are our favourite …
31 Jan 2026
Looking for a used Mercedes-AMG V8 bargain? These are our picks
Mercedes-AMG V8s
Features

Looking for a used Mercedes-AMG V8 bargain? These are our picks

Mercedes-AMG is rectifying its down-sizing strategy and working on a V8, but while you wait here’s four used V8 AMG icons we’d take a punt on
29 Jan 2026
Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 review – finally a match for Honda’s Civic Type R?
Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 – front
Reviews

Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 review – finally a match for Honda’s Civic Type R?

With the Edition 50, Volkswagen has produced the most hardcore road-going Golf since the Clubsport S – and the best Mk8 yet
30 Jan 2026