2016 Mercedes-AMG CLA45 and GLA45 more power, features

The 2016 Mercedes-AMG CLA45 4Matic and GLA45 4Matic models will go on sale here in late October packing more power as well as an upgraded roster of standard equipment and a new performance AMG Dynamic Plus option package. Kicking off the changes in both the Mercedes-AMG CLA45 Sedan and the GLA45 Crossover is a tuning tweak to the 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder they share that adds 20 horsepower and 18 lb-ft of torque, bumps that lift output to 375 horses and 350 lb-ft. The hotter engine is now backed by a revised AMG Speedshift DCT 7-speed sport automatic than has more aggressive ratios in its top five cogs. Mercedes says the GLA45 AMG 4Matic now sprints to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, a half second less than at present while the CLA45 AMG 4Matic hits that benchmark figure in a mere 4.1 ticks, which makes it as quick as the latest AMG SL63.

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To properly complement this added level of enthusiasm, these compacts will come standard for 2016 with a new, more user-friendly AMG Dynamic Select setup that allows a driver to change the throttle, steering and transmission mapping via a rotary control rather than buttons. They’ll also offer a new AMG Dynamic Plus Package in place of the outgoing AMG Driver’s Package. The Dynamic Plus kit includes AMG Ride Control Adaptive Suspension, a mechanical limited-slip front differential, a "Race" mode and a performance steering wheel along with a higher 167-mph top speed.

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Other new standard items for the CLA45 AMG/GLA45 AMG include a next-generation infotainment system that brings a media interface and prewiring for Garmin Map Pilot navigation with a 7.0-inch screen, Keyless Start and dual-zone climate control. While the AMG Performance Studio Package will remain optional on the CLA45, it will no longer be offered for the CLA45. Pricing, EPA numbers and other details on the 2016 Mercedes-AMG CLA45 and GLA45 4 Matic models will be released closer to their arrival in showrooms this fall.

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