2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA45 S – 415bhp SUV gets design tweaks inside and out
The range-topping Mercedes-AMG GLA45 S has been given an overhaul for 2024, but its performance remains untouched
Mercedes-AMG has launched the 2024 GLA45 S, applying a host of changes to the exterior and uprating its cabin to bring it in-line with the rest of the range. Performance remains identical to the outgoing car, but given that direct rivals are pretty thin on the ground, this is no bad thing. Pricing is yet to be announced, but expect a rise on the £65,000 starting price of the previous model.
While the design is familiar overall, the flagship GLA now adopts a redesigned front bumper with more defined intake sections for an uplift in aggression. Most notable are new headlights with an updated lighting signature, available as Multibeam LED units at an additional cost (the GLA’s entire lighting system is also now full LED).
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The GLA45’s distinctive wheel arch trims are now body colour as standard, unlike the outgoing car, with 21-inch wheels, quad exit exhaust trims, a roof-mounted lip spoiler and a rear diffuser also part of the package. Mercedes-AMG has also redesigned the rear lights with sharper optics to set it apart from its predecessor.
Under the bonnet is AMG’s potent 2-litre turbocharged M139 four-cylinder, producing the same 415bhp and 369lb ft of torque as the previous car. Sending this power to all four wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, the GLA45 S no slouch, with the 0-62mph sprint coming in 4.3sec and a claimed top speed of 168mph. The hot SUV also comes with AMG Torque Control, allowing for torque vectoring between axles and individual wheels.
Inside, buyers are treated to Mercedes-AMG’s latest Performance steering wheel as standard, featuring multi-function rotary display buttons for greater customisation. The MBUX infotainment system is also now the latest generation, and comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a more powerful USB charger and an additional USB-C port for improved connectivity.
Pricing is yet to be confirmed, but with the outgoing car costing from £65,000, expect to pay closer to the £70,000 mark.
