New CLA 45 4MATIC+ features three axial-flux motors, all-wheel drive, a 94 kWh battery, and a range of more than 670 kilometers
Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the new CLA 45 4MATIC+, a high-performance version that marks a major change in the model’s evolution. Instead of the traditional four-cylinder engine, the sedan now uses a fully electric powertrain with three motors, a maximum output of 680 hp, and all-wheel drive with variable torque distribution.
The system consists of two electric motors installed on the rear axle and a third unit on the front axle. Together, they deliver 500 kW, equivalent to 680 hp, along with a maximum torque of 1,759 Nm. According to the manufacturer, the CLA 45 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3 seconds. Using the “1-foot rollout” measurement method, the reported time drops to 2.7 seconds.
Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h and can reach 270 km/h in cars equipped with the AMG Dynamic Plus package. The motors’ continuous output reaches 612 hp, an important feature for maintaining performance during prolonged use, such as consecutive laps on a racetrack.
Compact motors and independent control
The main technical highlight is the use of axial-flux motors. Unlike conventional electric motors, they use components arranged in a disc-like configuration, a solution that reduces the size of the assembly while increasing power density.
In the CLA 45, the front motor is only nine centimeters wide, while each rear unit measures approximately eight centimeters. The front motor also serves as a power booster and can deliver up to 360 hp. Under low-demand conditions, it is disconnected to reduce losses and improve efficiency.
The three motors can be controlled independently. In addition to varying the power distribution between the axles, the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ system can send different levels of torque to each rear wheel. This function, known as torque vectoring, helps the car corner more effectively and improves stability on low-grip surfaces.
94 kWh battery and 330 kW charging
The battery has a usable capacity of 94 kWh and an 800-volt electrical architecture. Mercedes-AMG estimates a range of more than 670 kilometers for the CLA 45 sedan and more than 640 kilometers for the Shooting Brake version, according to the European WLTP cycle.
At compatible fast-charging stations, charging power can reach 330 kW. The brand says charging from 10% to 80% can be completed in approximately 22 minutes. A ten-minute stop would be enough to recover more than 270 kilometers of range.
The performance, however, comes with considerable weight. The sedan has a curb weight of 2,355 kg under European standards, while the Shooting Brake reaches 2,370 kg. The figures illustrate the engineering challenge of combining a high-capacity battery with the driving characteristics expected from an AMG.
Adaptive suspension and active aerodynamics
The CLA 45 uses AMG Ride Control sports suspension with adaptive dampers and three main settings. The driver will also be able to select up to seven driving programs, including modes designed for comfort, efficiency, slippery surfaces, and track use.
Another new feature is active aerodynamics. The sedan receives a movable rear wing, while the Shooting Brake uses an active spoiler at the end of the roof. The components automatically adjust their position to reduce aerodynamic drag or increase stability at higher speeds. The front section also features cooling flaps that remain closed whenever possible to improve efficiency.
Engine sound and simulated gear changes
Despite being electric, the CLA 45 attempts to preserve part of the experience associated with combustion-engine AMG models. In the AMGFORCE S+ program, the car reproduces the sound of an AMG four-cylinder engine, simulates torque interruptions during gear changes, and uses vibrating elements in the seats.
The audio was developed from recordings of a Mercedes-AMG A 45 S. According to the company, 13 microphones were used to produce more than 1,600 sound recordings, which are then combined in real time by the vehicle’s system.
Inside the cabin, the model will feature the fourth generation of the MBUX multimedia system, based on the MB.OS operating system. The platform incorporates artificial intelligence features from different providers and enables more complex interactions with the virtual assistant. The CLA 45 will be configured as a four-seat model in both sedan and Shooting Brake body styles.
Prices and specific sales launch dates have not yet been detailed. Mercedes-AMG also emphasizes that the published consumption, range, and performance figures are preliminary and still subject to official homologation.
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Source and images: Mercedes-Benz Group. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
