Mercedes
A Class Hatchback

Mercedes-AMG A45 review

Costs & verdict

Mercedes-AMG A45 2019 LHD rear seats
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Costs & verdict

Everyday costs, plus how reliable and safe it is

Mercedes has yet to release pricing and full specifications for the A45, although early indications suggest it’ll be a little bit more expensive than the Audi RS3. Make no mistake, this is a very pricey A-Class.

Although it’s unlikely you’d run one as a company car, it's worth noting that the A45’s CO2 emissions of 189g/km puts it in the top 37% BIK company car tax bracket. However, its 34mpg economy figure isn’t bad for a car this fast. Just bear in mind that UK figures are yet to be confirmed.

Safety is one of the A45’s strong points; the A-Class proved to be the best in its class in Euro NCAP’s 2018 safety tests. To help you avoid testing its crash-worthiness credentials, though, the A45 comes with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance and an attention monitor.

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Mercedes-AMG A45 2019 LHD dashboard detail
Mercedes-AMG A45 2019 left front cornering
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Verdict

Make no mistake, the A45 is more than just a one-trick pony. Not only is it incredibly rapid in a straight line, it’s also agile and entertaining through the corners, too. If early indications are anything to go by, however, its ability and striking interior won't come cheap.

  • Savage acceleration
  • Immense grip
  • Quick-shifting automatic gearbox
  • Very expensive
  • So-so interior quality
  • Some less capable rivals are more fun

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