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The South Eastern Times : September 4th 2014
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6 ADVERTISING FEATURE Mercedes Benz AMG A45 a new benchmark in performance motoring BY TREVOR JACKSON HOT hatches have become a popular segment of everyday performance motoring for many years, with the combination of outright power and fuel economy appealing. But none do it better than Mercedes Benz, with its smallest AMG, the A45, setting a new benchmark in the class. The world's fastest four cylinder passenger hatch is quite simply a rocket-ship and leaves all other contenders in its wake. The test vehicle was offered through the Precious Metal Roadshow, which has visited Carlin and Gazzard this month, and was indeed impressive. The exterior has the aggressive styling expected from the German manufacturer's AMG sports division, with 19 inch wheels, low profile tyres, a deep front splitter, tough street stance and a big rear roof-mounted spoiler. Inside the appointments are just as lavish, with body-hugging leather sports seats which are heated and fully adjustable, red stitching and accents adding a nice touch throughout and a high-quality sound system catering for radio, CD or mobile USB devices. A large centre screen provides all the information required, including phone connections and navigation, while a big sunroof allows the elements to enter the cabin. The dash is sporty, well laid out and easy to read. Start the engine and a crackling sound from the rear suggests something good is lurking under the bonnet and that is certainly the case. The turbo-charged 2-litre engine delivers a staggering 265kw of power through a seven-speed DSG gearbox and an allwheel-drive system. When driven in economy mode the little Benz seems subtle, albeit with that exhaust gurgle ever present, but when the sports option is chosen it becomes a different beast. Power is instantly available and in no short supply. Mercedes Benz claims a 0-100kph time of 4.6 seconds and you feel every bit of it as you bury the right foot. A very audible crackle between the quick gear changes is pleasing to the ear and the sheer power just as pleasing to the mind. The ride is somewhat harsh, but as a result the A45 always seems sure-footed and safe and for those wanting this style of vehicle, the bumpy ride is a trade-off well worth making. But it is not all about driving the fastest passenger hatch on the planet - as nice as that knowledge may be. While ambling around town the A45 is well mannered and a joy to drive. In economy mode the transmission chooses the highest gear needed and the engine shuts down at stand still with reasonable pressure on the brake pedal, all helping to achieve its 6.9 L/100km fuel consumption level. Testing out the cruise control, around the Blue Lake or down Bay Road the speed limit can be dialled in with no concern about coming under the eyes of the constabulary. The Distronic feature ensures a safe distance is kept from the vehicle ahead and the little Benz will activate the brake if it perceives danger. A casual drive down to Donovans and on to Nelson was a pleasure, with the A45 doing all the heavy lifting and sitting on the road well. But even in economy mode, a decent push of the go-pedal brings the little four to life and again that exhaust cracks out an impressive tune. For those wanting a touch more control there is also a manual mode, with gearchange paddles on the steering wheel for a more sporty driving experience. My Take The complete package - a fantastic vehicle offering the best of both worlds. If you are in the market for a fast, compact vehicle with good fuel economy, ample power, style, functionality and fun, the A45 AMG is hard to look past. PLUSH: The interior of the Mercedes Benz AMG A45 features body-hugging sports seats, sunroof and all the appointments expected from the German manufacturer. 18 - The South Eastern Times, Thursday, September 4, 2014 FORM AND FUNCTION: The dash of the Mercedes Benz AMG A45 is well laid out and easy to read. www.thesoutheasterntimes.com.au
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