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

Performance and 0-60 time

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

Living with the Toyota GR Yaris, a homologation hot hatch for £20k
evo Fast Fleet Toyota GR Yaris
Long term tests

Living with the Toyota GR Yaris, a homologation hot hatch for £20k

As the mystery of the GR’s true fuel tank capacity is solved, a new enigma emerges
27 Jan 2026
Caterham Project V is delayed, but a running prototype is finally here
Caterham Project V
News

Caterham Project V is delayed, but a running prototype is finally here

Caterham’s new age electric coupe is now officially behind schedule, but the first running prototype has now been unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon
13 Jan 2026
Cupra Leon VZ review – is this now the best hot hatch you can buy?
Cupra Leon VZ
Reviews

Cupra Leon VZ review – is this now the best hot hatch you can buy?

The choice of full-sized front-drive hot hatches now doesn’t include the Civic Type R. Can the Cupra Leon VZ take the top spot?
26 Jan 2026