2013 LA Auto Show: Mercedes displays Concept GLA45 AMG

Mercedes-Benz has exhibited the concept version of its recently launched Crossover the GLA at the ongoing Los Angeles Auto Show. Dubbed the GLA45 AMG, the production version of this car is expected to go on sale in the European market, early in 2014.

  

The Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA45 AMG that is displayed at the German automaker’s stand is decked up in racing attire. Apart from the decals on the sides with ‘45’ in bold letters and red and black touch ups, the front fascia of the car looks very aggressive and has a large spoiler at the back. These changes, however, are not expected to be reflected on the production version of the car.

  

Powered by a turbo-charged four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine, this car produces 355bhp of power. This powertrain, acquired from the CLA45 AMG and A45 AMG, is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with power transmitted to all four wheels. The US spec GLA 250 is powered by the 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine which churns out 211bhp of power and will be available with a permanent all-wheel-drive four-matic system as an option.

  

Mercedes-Benz had announced the GLA Edition 1 a few months ago, which we expect to be offered in India in 2014. The 2015 spec of the Mercedes GLA 250 is also expected to be launched in the US sometime next year.

  

Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management, Mercedes-AMG, said, "With the Concept GLA45 AMG, we are setting a stake firmly in the ground of the strongly growing market segment of compact SUVs. Our customers, a young target group who set great store by styling, dynamism and independence, can now start looking forward to a dynamic high-performance car. The most powerful four-cylinder engine in the world and the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system add up to make the Concept GLA45 AMG a unique proposition."