The Audi RS3’s days are numbered! Speaking to media at the Geneva International Motor Show, Mercedes-AMG bossman, Tobias Moers, confirmed that the next-generation Mercedes AMG A45 will pack some impressive firepower – an output of over 300kw!
“It’s going to be 400+ horsepower (300kw+). What we are doing for the next generation (A45) is we’re engineering a brand new engine, a 2.0-litre engine that is everything new – nothing common with the existing one“, said Moers. “But that doesn’t make sense unless you have driving dynamics equal – I’m not a fan of over-powered cars.”
Although it isn’t confirmed, it is believed the new A45 will feature a ‘drift mode’ similar to that scene on the Ford Focus RS. The new A45 will be joined by a new addition to the AMG A-Class range – the A35 – which will also be powered by 2.0-litre turbo motor and have an AMG-tuned 4MATIC all-wheel drive system just like the A45. This model will have around 250kw, and go head-to-head with the Audi S3 and Volkswagen Golf R.
The A35 is expected to be revealed later in the year, with the range-topping A45 bowing early in 2019. Render by Ascarissdesign.
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-AMG A Class and the Mercedes-AMG G Class.
FAQ
Q: How much power will the new Mercedes-AMG A45 have?
The next-generation Mercedes-AMG A45 will pack over 300kW (400+ horsepower), making it a proper weapon that should give the Audi RS3 some serious competition.
Q: What's the difference between the AMG A35 and A45?
The A35 will be the entry-level model with around 250kW targeting the Audi S3 and Golf R, while the A45 sits at the top with over 300kW to take on the RS3.
Q: Will the new AMG A45 have a drift mode like the Focus RS?
While not officially confirmed, industry speculation suggests the new A45 will feature a drift mode similar to what Ford offers on the Focus RS, which would be absolutely mental.
Q: When will the new Mercedes-AMG A35 and A45 be available?
The A35 is expected to debut later in 2018, with the range-topping A45 arriving early in 2019.
Q: Is the new AMG A-Class engine completely new?
Yes, Mercedes-AMG is engineering a brand new 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with nothing in common with the existing motor, so expect serious performance gains.
Should You Buy It?
Hold your horses, petrolhead! While the new Mercedes-AMG A45 sounds absolutely epic with its 300kW+ output, it's still in development and won't hit SA roads until 2019. If you need hot hatch thrills right now, the current A45 at around R850,000 is still a weapon, but waiting for this new beast could be worth it. The A35 arriving later this year should offer serious bang for your buck at an estimated R650,000 to R750,000, making it the smarter buy for most enthusiasts. Our verdict: wait for the A35 if you want value, or hold out for the new A45 if you want to embarrass RS3 owners at the next Cars and Coffee.
