The Mercedes-Benz Compact Car family

The Highlights Key facts

Mercedes-Benz attracts younger customers A success story

The production network Rastatt controls global compact-car production

The Mercedes-Benz B250e The Mercedes-Benz of Electric Vehicles

The CLA A Fresh Design Statement

The redesigned GLA Compact SUV refreshed with expressive design and updated equipment

The compact Car family from Mercedes-AMG Compact cars as another building block for 50 years of AMG success

Astounding Did you know that...?

The highlights

Key facts

Sales success: Mercedes-Benz has sold over two million compact models worldwide since 2011.

Getting younger: The average age of European drivers of the current A-Class generation is now around 13 years younger than for the preceding model series. As the most progressive model in the compact class, the model series has done much to make the brand more youthful.

Production network: Thanks to the shared compact-car architecture, there is a great deal of flexibility with respect to which production plants can build the cars.

Safety technology: In 2011, the B-Class was the first model in the compact-car segment to feature the radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system (now called Active Brake Assist). Since its facelift, the GLA is the only model in its market segment to feature a 360° camera.

Aerodynamics: In 2013, the four-door CLA Coupe set a new record with a Cd value of 0.23 – not only within the Mercedes model range, but also amongst all standard-production vehicles.

Engine technology: With a maximum output of 375 hp and a peak torque of 350 lb-ft, the AMG 2.0L turbocharged engine is the world's most powerful four-cylinder unit in series production.

Variability: HANDS-FREE ACCESS enables contactless opening and closing of the GLA's tailgate simply by moving a foot.

Outlook I: Mercedes-Benz will expand its compact car family from the current five models to eight models.

Outlook II: As of 2018, the COMPAS joint-venture production plant in Aguascalientes/Mexico will expand the compact-car production network at Mercedes-Benz Cars.

Mercedes-Benz attracts younger customers

A success story

Stuttgart/Budapest. Mercedes-Benz achieved its sixth record year in a row, selling two million passenger cars in a year for the first time. The globally successful compact-car family played a big part in this success. Globally, the family includes the A-Class, B-Class, CLA, CLA Shooting Brake and the beneficiary of a recent redesign: the GLA SUV crossover.

The expansion and rejuvenation of the product range are key factors behind the sustained market success that Mercedes-Benz has enjoyed. The compact models are fine examples in this respect. Dr. Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: "We have sold over two million compact models worldwide since the launch of the new-generation A-Class in 2012. And the average age of A-Class customers in Western Europe has fallen by more than 13 years since 2011. I believe there are four main reasons for the success of our compact cars: variety, driving enjoyment, innovation and our sophisticated design idiom."

No other premium manufacturer can lay claim to such a comprehensive range of compact cars as Mercedes-Benz: five body variants, front-wheel drive and 4MATIC, manual or dual clutch transmission, a whole host of petrol and diesel engines, plus electric or natural-gas drive in the B-Class, and Mercedes-AMG models that take dynamics to a new level. The compact models have already been supplied to customers in 170 markets around the globe. They are produced in a flexible and efficient production network with plants in Europe (Germany, Hungary and Finland) and China, plus Mexico in future.

The first current-generation B-Class rolled off the production line in 2011. Then came the A-Class, CLA, GLA and CLA Shooting Brake. Followed in 2014 by the B-Class Electric Drive, which was Mercedes-Benz's first all-electric vehicle.

The Mercedes-Benz brand has undergone a noticeable rejuvenation since the introduction of the current compact models. The average age of European drivers of the current A-Class generation is now more than 13 years younger than for the preceding model series. Around one in two drivers of a current Mercedes-Benz compact car in Western Europe previously owned a competitor vehicle. Indeed, the capture rate for the A-Class is as high as 70 percent in Western Europe.

Mercedes-Benz has further big plans for its compact cars: "We are confident this success story will continue. That's why we are expanding our compact-car family – from the current five models to eight attractive models", states Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG responsible for Mercedes-Benz Cars Sales since 1 January 2017.

The production network

Rastatt controls global compact-car production

Rastatt (Baden-Württemberg, Germany) is the lead plant for compact cars in the global production network of Mercedes-Benz Cars. Rastatt controls the production at the Hungarian plant in Kecskemét, at Beijing Benz Automotive Co. (BBAC) in China and at Finnish production partner Valmet Automotive in Uusikaupunki. Well over two million of the current compact-car models have been produced since 2011.

Flexibility and efficiency are two key objectives in the global production network of Mercedes-Benz Cars, which has 29 locations and around 78,000 employees worldwide. The network is structured around the product architectures of front- wheel drive (compact cars) and rear-wheel drive as well as the SUV and sports car architectures. At the center of each architecture production network is a lead plant that serves as a competence center for new model start-ups, tooling strategy and quality assurance. There is also a production network for the powertrain (engines, transmissions, axles, components). The plants in the global compact-car production network and their products at a glance:

• Rastatt/Germany: A-Class, B-Class, GLA
• Kecskemét/Hungary: B-Class, CLA and CLA Shooting Brake
• Uusikaupunki/Finland: A-Class
• Beijing/China: GLA

The Rastatt plant acts as the lead plant for the compact-car production network and controls global production planning and project control (tooling strategy, product quality) as well as global quality and supplier management. The Rastatt plant also supports smooth start-ups at the other plants by training staff, for example.

Rastatt: the lead plant for compact-car production worldwide

The Mercedes-Benz Rastatt plant is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2017. E-Class models were the first cars to roll off the production line at this location in central Baden, which has been home to the compact class since 1997. The plant has a workforce in excess of 6500 people, making it the region's largest employer. More than 300,000 vehicles left the production line in Rastatt in 2016.

Rastatt fired the starting shot for the new compact models when production of the second-generation Mercedes-Benz B-Class began here in 2011. This was followed in July 2012 by the production launch of the new A-Class, while series production of the Mercedes-AMG A 45 4MATIC commenced in April 2013. In December 2013, the GLA produced at the Rastatt plant completed the Mercedes-Benz SUV line-up.

April 2014 signaled the start of production for the B-Class Electric Drive. The electric models are produced as part of normal series production on the same line as vehicles with internal combustion engines, enabling the company to embrace the opportunities of electro mobility whilst limiting the amount of investment required. As a competence center for the production of electric vehicles, the Rastatt site now has more than three years of experience behind it. The production launch of the new GLA in February 2017 means that Rastatt now has a cutting- edge model range.

Kecskemét: the first European plant outside Germany

The Kecskemét plant in Hungary, opened in March 2012, was the first European Mercedes-Benz passenger-car plant outside Germany. The 500,000th vehicle rolled off the production line here in February 2016. The CLA and the CLA Shooting Brake are produced exclusively here for all markets worldwide, as well as the B-Class.

Beijing: the GLA from and for China

Beijing Benz Automotive Co., Ltd (BBAC), a joint venture between Daimler and its Chinese partner BAIC Motor, has produced Mercedes-Benz cars since 2005 and engines since 2013. It produces the GLA, which had its production launch in spring 2015, as well as the E-Class, C-Class and GLC. In 2016, around two thirds of the Mercedes-Benz vehicles sold in China were from local production, and BBAC has already produced over a million Mercedes-Benz models. In terms of surface area, BBAC is the world's largest Mercedes-Benz plant for passenger cars.

Aguascalientes: new plant in Mexico

The COMPAS (Cooperation Manufacturing Plant Aguascalientes) joint-venture production plant in Aguascalientes/Central Mexico will expand the compact-car production network at Mercedes-Benz Cars in future. COMPAS is a joint project of the cooperation with the Renault-Nissan alliance. Production of Infiniti vehicles will commence in 2017, with the first Mercedes-Benz vehicles set to roll off the production line in 2018.

The Mercedes-Benz B250e

The Mercedes-Benz of Electric Vehicles

The Mercedes-Benz B250e features dynamic design, a premium interior and a powerful electric motor for emission-free mobility. The B250e sets clear standards in terms of comfort, quality and safety for up to five occupants. By aligning equipment with other models within the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the B250e is now offering a compelling new entry level price of $39,900.

The B-Class surprises with an especially dynamic driving experience by providing noticeably powerful acceleration, while gliding along quietly. The electric Mercedes-Benz offers the driver and up to four passengers the familiar high standards of ride comfort in a high-class, spacious and precision-designed interior.

The B-Class combines dynamic and driving pleasure with zero local emissions – in short, it delivers electric driving at premium level.

Powerful drive with brisk acceleration

Quiet and local emission-free driving is ensured by an electric motor generating 177 hp. Typical for an electric drive system, the motor develops its maximum torque of 251 lb-ft of torque from the very first touch of the accelerator. This is approximately equivalent to the torque from a modern three-liter gasoline engine. The result is noticeably powerful acceleration from a standing start--the electrically driven B250e drives from zero to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds. Effortless drivability and exhilarating driving pleasure with a high level of comfort are thus guaranteed in every situation.

The power supply to the electric drive is delivered via a high-performance lithium- ion battery, which is compactly and safely housed in the "Energy Space" in the underfloor of the vehicle. Such intelligent packaging allows the five-seater to retain the B250e's familiar spaciousness in both its interior and its luggage compartment.

Zero emissions on longer journeys

In the interests of optimizing range, the top speed is electronically limited to 100 mph. Depending on driving cycle; the vehicle has a range of 87 miles (EPA). This permits emission-free driving not just in city traffic and on short journeys, but also over longer distances - such as a daily commute. The B250e can be charged from any standard domestic power socket. For a range of 60 miles, the charging time at 240V in the United States is less than 2 hours.* On the road, the electric drive itself makes its own contribution to a favorable energy balance by converting kinetic energy into electric current during coasting and braking and feeds this energy into the battery. The standard RANGE PLUS package includes a suite of features to further increase your driving range--added insulation of the doors and roof to increase climate-control efficiency, along with an electrically heated windshield and a range-extending charge function. By pressing a button on the console prior to charging, the maximum charge level of the battery will be increased for the next charge cycle. The higher-capacity charge can provide up to approximately 17 additional miles of range.

Dynamic Mercedes-Benz design

With its refined sportiness, the B250e features the self-assured and dynamic styling typical of Mercedes with powerfully defined lines and finely crafted details. The front and rear sections express the width of the vehicle. This is ensured by the wide, prominent grille and the headlamps, which wrap round into the sides, as well as by the wide rear window, two-piece taillamps and large liftgate with deep sill. A dynamic look is created by door-sill panels and striking bumpers with bar-shaped LED daytime running lamps. The charge socket is inconspicuously installed behind the conventional fuel door.

Sporty interior with classy touches

The interior underscores the high standards of comfort typical of Mercedes-Benz. High-grade materials and finely textured surfaces, classy touches and precision workmanship make it clear that Mercedes-style electric drive is defined by high standards.

The three large round center air vents with their uniquely styled cruciform nozzles add a sporty flair that contributes to the overall emotional design idiom of the interior. Positioned above the air vents and seemingly free-floating is the screen for the telematics system.

In terms of information and communication systems, the electric B250e offers levels of comfort and functionality that is customary of any Mercedes-Benz. The standard equipment package includes a new 7-inch color display, twin tuner and MP3-compatible CD player as well as two USB ports. The Garmin® MAP PILOT® navigation system can be installed via SD card at any time since all B250e models

will be prewired for this feature. The screen works in tandem with the COMAND® multimedia system with internet access, navigation and voice control is also optionally available.

The instrumentation of the B250e is rounded off by functions that are specific to electric vehicles. One of the striking features is the power display in the right-hand circular instrument. The instrument pointer moves in a clockwise direction from the green zone towards the red zone, when full power is demanded by the driver. It drops back below the zero line when the vehicle is feeding energy into the battery through the recuperation feature.

Ideally networked: connected services

Thanks to its state-of-the-art technology, the B-Class is not just sustainable and agile, but also connected. For example, the "Vehicle Homepage" allows convenient remote interaction and remote configuration of the vehicle. The driver can use their PC or smartphone to conveniently access the vehicle via the internet. It is possible, for instance, to determine the current state of charge of the lithium-ion battery or show the vehicle's current range on a map. In addition, the planned route can be displayed, showing at a glance where the vehicle can be recharged along the way, should this prove necessary. The range of connected services is rounded off by a feature that allows individually timed pre-heating or cooling of the vehicle. This pre-entry climate control system makes the B-Class unique in its segment.

Big on safety

Mercedes-Benz also applies its familiar, high safety standards to the B250e. Thanks to the innovative "Energy Space," the battery is safely accommodated in the underfloor of the vehicle, where it is ensured protection in the event of a crash. In addition, Mercedes-Benz has equipped this innovative electric car with the radar- based collision warning system Active Brake Assist with adaptive braking technology, comprised of Predictive Brake Priming, Automatic Brake Drying, Hill- Start Assist and brake HOLD feature. This assistance system gives the driver a visual and audible warning of detected obstacles, prepares them for braking action and assists them with the braking process as the situation requires. In this way, it significantly reduces the danger of a rear-end collision. Additional cutting-edge driver assistance systems are also available, including Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Parking Pilot.

Electric drive made by Mercedes-Benz

Locally emission-free electric vehicles such as the new B-Class are a key part of Mercedes-Benz's strategy for sustainable mobility. The Stuttgart-based premium manufacturer is asserting its claim to leadership in this sector with electric vehicles that are fully suitable for everyday use.

At a glance

The CLA

A Fresh Design Statement

The sporty, expressive design of the CLA is now further honed in a facelift involving new front and rear bumpers as well as new light-alloy wheel designs. The interior also benefits from numerous enhancements, among them new seat covers and trim parts, as well as chrome-plated controls. LED headlamps, HANDS-FREE ACCESS and further possibilities for integrating smartphones into the control system are all options that serve to enhance safety and comfort. Active Brake Assist as a standard feature further strengthens the CLA's credentials as a leader in its class, as does HANDS- FREE ACCESS as an optional convenience feature. The Mercedes-AMG CLA45 now features even more dynamic styling and a further upgraded interior. With a peak performance of 375 hp and maximum torque of 350 lb-ft, it is amongst the most powerful vehicles in its segment.

In undertaking the facelift modifications, the Mercedes-Benz designers have subtly honed the distinctive look of the CLA. All models now have a new front bumper with a strip that comes in silver, black or chrome. The rear bumper is optionally available with a panel incorporating a trim strip in chrome or black (Night Package) between the tailpipes. The tailpipe trim panels themselves are now integrated flush into the bumper. This adds visual width to the vehicle and ensures a superior high- quality appearance thanks to even and narrow gaps where the panels join.

There is a new metallic paint available, Lunar Blue. Most of the available wheels now feature a new design – overall, six different wheels are available to choose from for the CLA250. The CLA previously included the latest generation of assistance and safety systems that are, in some cases, only now gradually being introduced in the other model series. Among these are Active Brake Assist as standard (known until now as COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS), which is able to trigger autonomous braking as a means of reducing the danger of rear-end collisions, as well as the transmission mode selection function DYNAMIC SELECT. With this system the vehicle characteristics can be adjusted at the touch of a button, as the system modifies the engine, transmission and steering feel. The ambient lighting system can now be individualized by setting any one of twelve color moods.

The interior: slimmer display, new trim parts, chrome-plated controls

The interior also benefits from features such as new seat covers and trim parts, as well as chrome-plated controls. The highlight here is a much slimmer-looking freestanding 8-inch media display with a new-style glass cover, standard equipment in the US. The new-style dials and red needles in the instrument cluster make it easier to read the instruments.

Meticulous attention to detail is also evident from the silver chrome finish to the controls and to the fascia and switches in the doors for the electrically adjustable seats, as well as from the chrome surround to the stowage compartment in the center console.

New trim elements in sail-look finish, matte black ash wood, or aluminum with honeycomb grain, serve to liven up the interior. There is also a revised range of seat covers: for the optionally available Interior Package there is a new leather upholstery option in beige/black.

The equipment features: LED headlamps as an option

The CLA is optionally available with LED headlamps with a color temperature that is closer to that of daylight than traditional xenon headlamps. This is more restful to the eyes and therefore provides relief to the driver at night. The 34-watt LED low- beam headlamps also have very low energy consumption – around 60 percent less than xenon and around 70 percent less than halogen.

The low-beam headlamps use LED projection technology, while the main-beam headlamps use LED reflection technology. Direction indicators, daytime running lamps and position lamps are in the form of multifunctional fiber-optic cables, which are also used for the ‘Coming Home’ function. As all lamps use LED technology, there is never a need to change a bulb over the entire service life of the vehicle.

The new optional LED headlamps are combined with automatic intensity control tail lamps, which reduce the dazzling effect for vehicles following. The multi-level functionality regulates the brightness of the brake lamps and direction indicators in three stages (Day/Night-time driving/Night-time stationary).

Loading becomes easier with the HANDS-FREE ACCESS option. This system allows the trunk lid or liftgate to be opened without any physical contact; all it takes is a

motion of the foot in the area of the rear bumper. HANDS-FREE ACCESS is now included as part of the Convenience Package.

The optionally-available Smartphone Integration Package allows the integration and voice-operated control of iPhones® and Android smartphones via Apple CarPlayTM and Android Auto respectively. Selected functions can be operated using vehicle controls, thus allowing safe use even while on the move.

A rearview camera is now included in the standard equipment for the United States.

Drive system: Efficient and dynamic

The 2.0L inline-4 turbo engine in the CLA250 delivers an output of 208 hp and is paired as standard with the 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch transmission). It is available in both front-wheel drive or with optional 4MATIC.

Latest AMG design language and improved aerodynamics: AMG CLA45

"Avant-garde meets Driving Performance" is the motto for the Mercedes-AMG CLA45. Offering a unique combination of a sporty driving experience, extravagant design and maximum individuality, the CLA45 also benefits from updated exterior aesthetics. LED headlamps now come as standard, as does the twin louver radiator grille finished in silver chrome.

Aerodynamics have been further improved and the coefficient of drag has been reduced, all to the benefit of driving dynamics and stability. Further exterior features of the facelift include the AMG® front bumper in a new A-wing design with front splitter inserts in matte titanium grey and high-gloss black flics, and a new design for the AMG lip spoiler on the trunk lid. New at the rear is the design of the diffuser insert, with four vertical fins. An AMG Aerodynamics package is now available as standard. This comprises a larger front splitter, additional flics, a black AMG lip spoiler plus black accents over the simulated air outlets on the rear bumper. An AMG Night Package is also standard on the Mercedes-AMG CLA45.

Two attractive light-alloy wheels join the range: the standard specification includes 18 x 8.0-inch AMG ten-spoke wheels painted titanium grey or black and with a high-sheen finish, with 235/40 R 18 tires. Available as an option are 19 x 8-inch AMG cross-spoke light-alloy wheels with 235/35 R 19 tires. Here, too, there are two color variants, with matte black or titanium grey paintwork, in each case with a high-sheen rim flange.

The interior has been similarly upgraded and interiors are given an exclusive finishing touch of red contrasting topstitching. The new AMG trim design features a matte painted finish while the structure still has a polished surface that bears the AMG logo. It is available in black/red or in black/silver, depending on the chosen upholstery. Also new is the optional AMG DINAMICA Interior package with a trim element in DINAMICA as well as a full-DINAMICA AMG Performance steering wheel.

With a peak performance of 375 hp and maximum torque of 350 lb-ft, the Mercedes-AMG CLA45 Coupe is among the most powerful vehicles in its segment, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds.

Extensive modifications undertaken by Mercedes-AMG in September 2015 had already added to the fun at the wheel and emotional appeal of the CLA. Along with the more powerful engine, the new features included the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes as standard, plus shorter gear ratios of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT® DCT 7-speed transmission. A mechanical limited-slip front differential is available in conjunction with the Dynamic Plus package (optional extra).

Did you know that...?

...on sale in the USA since 2013, the CLA was the first compact car to be marketed in the US market by Mercedes-Benz. As the new entry-level model, it has proved hugely successful, with sales of 29,643 units (2015: +8.3% vs. 2014) making the USA the single most important market for the CLA in 2015.

...more than four million compact cars from Mercedes-Benz have already been delivered to customers worldwide?

...the model series is built at the company's production facility at Kecskémet in Hungary? Production of the compact four-door Coupe started in January 2013. Since the facility opened in 2012 a total of 500,000 vehicles have already left the production line of the Kecskémet plant, which also produces the B-Class.

...as far as its technology is concerned, the handcrafted AMG® 2.0L inline-4 turbo engine is related to the handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine in the Mercedes- AMG GT that delivers up to 503 hp.

...the 2.0L inline-4 turbo engine has already received the renowned "Engine of the Year Award" twice? The AMG unit won the award in the category for engines with a displacement of 1.8 - 2.0 liters in both 2014 and 2015. The independent experts were impressed by the trailblazing engineering and outstanding characteristics of this high-end four-cylinder unit.

At a glance

The redesigned GLA

Compact SUV refreshed with expressive design and updated equipment

The newly redesigned GLA is starting the 2018 model year with targeted visual accentuation in the interior and exterior design and updated equipment. This sees the look of the compact SUV gaining a significantly more powerful design. At the pinnacle of the model series is the Mercedes- AMG GLA45, with an especially sporty host of equipment being offered by the AMG Performance Studio Package.

The GLA was presented for the first time in 2013 and has since become a model of success in a segment it has shaped and redefined. The GLA is characterized by its sportily dynamic design and light-footed handling. As the first compact SUV from Mercedes-Benz, it brought a breath of fresh air to its market segment and established itself there as a major player.

With seven model series (GLA, GLC, GLC Coupe, GLE, GLE Coupe, GLS and G), Mercedes-Benz boasts the broadest SUV range of all the European premium manufacturers and thus meets all the individual mobility requirements of its customers.

Expressive design, technical performance

An expressive design with a clear SUV character and technical performance remain the most significant reason to buy the GLA for most customers.

Customers have a choice of an off-road comfort suspension (optional) which raises the body by 30 millimeters, resulting in improved off-road capability, a higher seat position and striking off-roader looks.

Modified bumpers, new wheel designs and the new attractive color "Canyon Beige" characterize the 2018 model at first glance. The GLA thus visually underlines its SUV genes to an even greater extent than before. The previously-optional bi-xenon headlamps have made way for efficient LED headlamps characterized by a color temperature similar to daylight.

Valuable Interior and Exterior Upgrades

The attractively styled interior of the GLA with high-quality materials and excellent workmanship is enhanced by new seat covers and trim parts as well as chromed control panels. The free-standing 8-inch media display is slim and is easily legible, as are the new gauges with red needles. The controls for switches on the electric seat adjustment in the doors have been given small yet effective highlights in silver chrome - and the stowage compartment in the center console is also surrounded by a chrome frame. In addition, the air conditioning vent rings are more strongly accentuated and thus underscore the harmonious SUV touch in the interior.

Exclusively available in this market segment, the 360-degree camera records the direct surroundings of the car, which are either shown as a full-image depiction or in seven different split-screen views on the media display. Among them is also a virtual top view of the car - produced from the data of four cameras: front, reversing and one camera in each of the exterior mirrors.

The Interior Package, with standard sports seats, remains optionally available and is aimed at the particularly sporty customer.

The Night Package offering includes 19-inch AMG wheels and black window trim, exterior mirrors, roof rails, exhaust tips and exterior accents that underscores the sporty look of the GLA.

Spot on: LED light turns night into day

Available optionally on the GLA250 and standard on the AMG GLA45, LED High Performance headlamps replace the currently available bi-xenon headlamps. Alongside brilliant illumination, these headlamps are characterized by a color temperature similar to daylight and relieve the strain on the eyes when driving at night. The energy consumption is also lower: around 60 percent less than xenon and approximately 70 percent less than halogen. The low-beam headlamps work with LED projector-beam technology and the high beam with LED reflector technology. Indicators, daytime running lamps and position light are designed as multifunctional fiber-optic cables and enable an unmistakable style through higher degrees of design freedom. For added convenience, changing a bulb is no longer necessary over the entire lifetime of the car.

Increased aerodynamics

With the GLA model series, Mercedes-Benz further impresses where aerodynamic quality is concerned. The good flow characteristics, which contribute decisively to the low fuel consumption in everyday conditions and a pleasantly discreet noise level even at higher speeds, was achieved through a multitude of aerodynamic optimizations in the high-speed wind tunnel in Sindelfingen. These include a low A- pillar step with corresponding A-pillar geometry and aerodynamically optimized exterior mirror housings. The generously sized trim on the main floor, an additional trim in the center section of the rear axle and even an aerodynamically optimized rear silencer with a connected diffuser further improve the flow of air beneath the underbody. An elaborate roof spoiler lip, specially shaped tail lights plus discreet side rear spoilers also ensure that the air flow at the tail end is aerodynamically optimal.

Safety first: autonomous braking and drowsiness warnings

Vehicle safety is the top priority at Mercedes-Benz. The GLA offers "Active Brake Assist" as standard: it warns the driver if there is not sufficient distance to the vehicle in front and if required, delivers situation-appropriate braking. If the system detects that the driver is reacting too late, it initiates autonomous braking in order to prevent the collision or minimize the consequences. The GLA is also standard- equipped with "ATTENTION ASSIST," which can detect typical signs of drowsiness via the steering behavior and warn the driver.

More comfort in the end

The rear compartment of the GLA was also the focus of the engineers' attention, and they have integrated new features here: with the optional extra HANDS-FREE ACCESS, exclusive in this segment, the trunk can be opened and closed with a foot movement, without using one’s hands. The procedure can be completed at any time and any potential obstacles stop the process immediately.

The new Mercedes-AMG GLA45

Mercedes-AMG is continuing its model initiative with full steam ahead and is enhancing the GLA45 both visually and technically. With intelligent aerodynamic measures like a restyled front bumper and spoiler lip on the roof spoiler it was possible to increase driving dynamics and driving stability, while simultaneously reducing wind resistance.

The distinguishing design feature of the new Mercedes-AMG GLA45 is the sharpened front section. The front bumper was given an even more dynamic shape, new air intake grilles, a front splitter insert in silver chrome plus flics in high-gloss black. These guide the cooling air flows to the vehicle radiators even more effectively. Some earlier optional extras like the LED High Performance headlamps are now part of the standard host of equipment. The twin louver on the AMG Twin Blade radiator grille is now in silver chrome, as are the inserts in the side sill panels. As an additional option a multi-spoke 20-inch light-alloy wheel is available for selection in two color variants: painted matte black with high-sheen rim flange or painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish.

Eye-catching features at the tail end are the new diffuser insert in the rear bumper, the trim in silver chrome and the new spoiler lip on the roof spoiler which help to improve the driving dynamics of the new GLA45.

Fine interior with exclusive touches

The interior has been similarly upgraded. The dashboard is covered as standard with MB-Tex and has been given exclusive highlights with red contrast topstitching.

A further highlight is the generously sized trim, extending over virtually the entire width of the car: its fundamental structure is printed matte with a high-gloss surface and it bears AMG lettering. It is available in black/red (standard) or in black/silver depending on the choice of upholstery).

The instrument cluster has been given a new number design, new gauge needles with a black needle center and the chrome frame around the gear also ensure a sporty cockpit experience.

Further options for comfort and sport

The new equipment items optionally available include, among other features, a 360-degree camera. With the aid of four networked cameras, this system facilitates parking and maneuvering with a realistic surround view. The car and its surroundings can be depicted in the media display from a birds-eye view, and obstacles beneath the window line are also visible for the driver.

Extremely agile, handcrafted 2.0L turbo engine

With a maximum output of 375 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, the Mercedes-AMG GLA45 is among the most powerful cars in its segment. A speed of zero to 60 mph is achieved from standstill after just 4.3 seconds. The extremely agile Handcrafted AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine blends thrilling performance and the exemplary efficiency with a further best: the power-to-swept-volume ratio of 187.5 hp marks a record for a series engine with four cylinders – it raises the AMG engine to the level of thoroughbred super sports cars.

One of the high-tech components of the four-cylinder turbo engine is the spray- guided direct petrol injection. Piezo injectors centrally located in the four combustion chambers inject the fuel at a pressure of up to 200 bar. The combination of multiple fuel injection and multi-spark ignition improves fuel economy and significantly increases thermodynamic efficiency, leading to low exhaust emissions. The twin-scroll turbocharger and maximum dethrottling of the exhaust system improve the charge pressure build-up, and therefore the engine's response to the accelerator.

On the road the turbocharged, Handcrafted AMG 2.0L four-cylinder engine thrills with extremely fast responses to accelerator movements, high torque, enormous flexibility and an emotional engine note. The exhaust system features an automatically controlled exhaust flap as standard. The intensity of the engine note changes according to the currently active AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving mode.

With the optional AMG Performance Exhaust System® the sound is even sportier through the modified structure of the muffler system and it thus intensifies the emotively appealing sound experience. It can be regulated via selection of the drive program or via a switch. In the interior the impressive sound can be experienced even more intensely at the touch of a button through the more powerful intake noise of the engine.

Shorter ratios: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sport transmission

The agile and dynamic power transfer is assisted by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7- speed sports transmission. Thanks to shorter ratios selected in gears three to seven, the driver senses an even more appealing acceleration experience in all speed ranges. Together with optimized response and shift times, the closer ratio spread ensures better transitions when upshifting.

Best traction as standard: AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive

For optimum traction even in poor road surface conditions, the standard all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC system transfers the drive power to all wheels. The torque is steplessly and variably distributed to the front and rear axle. This configuration results in an optimum ratio of sportiness, efficiency and traction to match the driving situation. A multiple-disc clutch integrated in the rear axle differential with AMG-specific control passes on the engine torque to the rear wheels should the front wheels lose traction. The spectrum ranges from purely front-wheel drive to a 50:50 ratio for the front and rear wheels.

The AMG Performance Studio Package celebrates success of the AMG compact cars

With the CLA45 and GLA45 models, Mercedes-AMG has tapped into new customer groups and spurred on the success of the sports car and performance brand. Mercedes-AMG is now celebrating the best-sellers with an exclusive AMG Performance Studio Package, which is available on the CLA45 and GLA45 and includes a particularly sporty host of equipment.

The special models equipped with this package are painted exclusively in Night Black or Cosmos Black and with their unique combination of Matte Graphite Grey and Yellow sections they are immediately identifiable. The exclusive impression is underscored by the light-alloy wheels in Matte Black with Yellow rim flanges and the black painted AMG twin louver in the radiator grille. Yellow highlights characterize the front bumper, exterior mirror housings, inserts in the side skirts, rear diffuser and rear wing on the GLA45.

The special character is additionally emphasized by the AMG sport stripes in Matte Graphite Grey (foiled) on the hood, roof, trunk lid and sides of the car.

High-quality interior with yellow highlights

The interior is also characterized by the extensive appointments and yellow touches. The AMG Performance Seats in MB-Tex /DINAMICA microfiber also sport yellow trim, as do the AMG DINAMICA Performance Steering Wheel, rear bench seat, dashboard, beltlines (only on CLA45) and armrests. Further highlights include door sill panels in Graphite Grey with a yellow AMG logo, floor mats with yellow edging, AMG logo in yellow, plus yellow air outlets.

The extensive standard equipment of the AMG Performance Studio Package includes the AMG Aerodynamics Package, AMG Night Package, AMG DINAMICA Performance Steering Wheel with a yellow 12 o'clock marking with an "AMG Edition" badge and yellow contrast topstitching among other features.

At a glance