Mercedes-AMG A45 S review

Mercedes-AMG A45 S review

We take the Mercedes-AMG A45 S – the most powerful hot hatch on the market – for a spin…

It could be argued that the concept of the ‘hot hatch’ – in the traditional sense – is now in its dying days.

After all, we live in an era where a family EV is often quicker off the mark than many a performance ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) car.

Mercedes-AMG A45 S review

There are only a few genuine ‘hot’ hatches left, including the Audi RS3, Volkswagen Golf R, Honda Civic Type R and the Mercedes-AMG A45 S – the subject of this week’s road test.

Just to recap, the fourth-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class hatchback was launched in 2018 and facelifted at the end of 2022.

Topping the range are a pair of performance models (the Mercedes-AMG A 35 and the even-faster Mercedes-AMG A 45 S), which have now also received a makeover.

Mercedes-AMG A45 S review

The A 45 S is the most powerful hot hatch on the market (415bhp and 369lb ft of torque) and it features the world’s most potent series-production four-cylinder engine.

The key stats say it all, because that turbocharged 2.0-litre engine means it’s capable of 0–62mph in a blistering 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 168mph.

Oh, and all that power is directed to the road via an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox and AMG’s 4Matic all-wheel drive system.

Mercedes-AMG A45 S review

For what it’s worth, fuel economy is a claimed 30.8mpg. And frankly, unless you possess superhuman levels of restraint, the reality is closer to 25mpg.

First impressions count and the Mercedes-AMG A45 S is a statement car.

Apart from new front and rear lights and an AMG badge on the bonnet, the update hasn’t made much of a difference to the car externally – which is no bad thing.

Mercedes-AMG A45 S review

With its aggressive stance, lower lip spoiler, quad-exhaust pipes, front bumper canards and a massive rear wing, it oozes performance.

Inside, the first thing you notice is the driving position, which is a tad high, while the seats are on the firm side. The dashboard is shared with standard A-Class models, so there’s an impressive dual-screen set-up and a head-up display.

If you prefer things minimalist, the Mercedes-AMG A45 S may not be for you. There’s a complex twin-spoke steering wheel incorporating two mode buttons, five circular air vents and a line of climate-control switches.

Mercedes-AMG A45 S review

There’s plenty of room up front, but those bucket seats eat into the rear passenger space, so best to try the space for size.

The 370-litre boot is about average for a family hatchback and there’s a useful 40/20/40-split rear bench.

Of course, premium materials are used throughout the interior and it’s hard to fault the overall build quality, inside and out.

Mercedes-AMG A45 S review

Naturally, the Mercedes-AMG A45 S is a little more vocal on start-up than your average hatchback, but it’s not anti-social.

In fact, it’s really easy-going, happy pootling around town and cruising on the motorway. Put your foot down and it’s a car transformed. The exhaust note is angrier, it pumps through the gears and before you know it, you’re up to the legal limit.

Traction is prodigious, but hot hatches aren’t just about straight-line speed – it’s how they cope on more challenging roads.

Mercedes-AMG A45 S review

And it’s here that the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S is in another league. There are a bewildering amount of drive mode settings (there’s even a drift mode), and you can tweak the steering, suspension and exhaust, but ultimately, the sportier you get the more astonishing it becomes.

With sharp, responsive steering, phenomenal cornering ability, powerful brakes and a glorious rear bias, it’s remarkably forgiving and remains unbelievably composed.

I can’t pretend to understand all the clever, technical stuff going on behind the scenes. All I know if that it works superbly. Not only does it put a smile on your face, but it leaves you yearning for more. This could be an entertaining track day weapon.

Mercedes-AMG A45 S review

My only criticism is that the ride is firm, even in comfort mode, but it’s certainly not a deal-breaker. Sadly, the starting price of £63,285 will be for many.

Verdict: Quite simply, the Mercedes-AMG A45 S is one of the best hot hatches ever – a heady mix of power, superb driving engagement, top build quality and practicality.

Mercedes-Benz UK

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

We get behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz EQC – the EV version of the mighty GLC…

The EQC was the first all-electric model from Mercedes-Benz when it was launched in 2019, and its upmarket rivals include the BMW iX3, Audi Q8 e-tron, Jaguar I-Pace, Tesla Model X and Genesis GV70.

Handsome and well-proportioned, it has aged well and has serious road presence. Inside, it’s a classy blend of technology, comfort, space and excellent build quality.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

The EQC’s 80kWh battery pack sits in the floor, while two electric motors are positioned on each axle, enabling four-wheel-drive.

Producing a substantial 402bhp and 560lb ft (760Nm) of torque, it can sprint from 0-62mph in just 5.1 seconds, and on to a top speed of 112mph.

Claimed range is up to 254 miles, which is average these days, and closer to 200 miles in real-world driving.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

The EQC has a maximum 110kW charging capability, meaning a boost from 10-80% can take 40 minutes. Naturally, it will also charge overnight using a 7kW wallbox.

To put that into context – cheaper, newer rivals such as the Kia EV6 and Genesis GV60 have a charge rate of up to 350kW – that’s 10-80% in just 18 minutes.

Naturally, there’s the commanding view of the road you’d expect from a big SUV, while the latest MBUX infotainment and driver information system (which stretches across most of the dashboard) is a particular interior highlight.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

The MBUX’s party piece is the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice-control feature which, for the most part, understands commands said in plain English.

And thankfully, there are still plenty of switches and buttons spread around so not all functionality is controlled via the touchscreen.

There’s a decent amount of space in the cabin too, though taller rear passengers might struggle for headroom, thanks to that elegant roofline. It should also be noted that this is a five-seater – you’ll have to go for an EQB if you want three rows.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

Boot capacity is a useful 500 litres, expanding to 1,460 litres with the 40/20/40-split back seats folded.

On the road, Mercedes-Benz has done a fine job of masking the EQC’s 2.5-tonne weight and it’s only when you push on in faster, twisty roads that you realise that discretion is the better part of valour.

In its element on motorways and fast A-roads, where it’s an effortless, refined and relaxed cruiser, there’s also plenty of punch in reserve should you need it.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

The steering is light and precise, especially around town, plus there’s ample grip from those huge wheels (20 or 21 inches, depending on the trim level).

The ride is excellent, and for the most part it glides over poorer road surfaces, only coming unstuck over sleeping policeman and steep driveways, for instance, where the low front air dam rubber flaps scrape unless you’re extra cautious.

So, the EQC is an impressive EV, but it comes at a price. The entry-level AMG Line starts at £74,330, the AMG Line Premium is £78,975, while the range-topping AMG Line is priced from £81,225. To give it its full title, our test car was an EQC 400 4MATIC AMG Line.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

And as you’d expect from a car in this price range, the EQC is one of the safest vehicles on the road, achieving a maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating. A full suite of safety and driver assistance systems are available, with parking sensors, a reversing camera, blind-spot alert, autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning and LED headlights as standard.

Verdict: The Mercedes-Benz EQC should definitely be on your shortlist if you’re looking for a premium zero emissions SUV. It may not have class-leading dynamics or range, but it’s fast, safe, spacious, comfortable, loaded with tech and oozes class.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

Mercedes-Benz A-Class review

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

We road test the updated Mercedes-Benz A-Class – the entry-level model in the three-pointed star line-up…

Priced from £31,905 and available as a hatchback or saloon, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class has been a huge success, delivering a relatively affordable, yet stylish and upmarket family car.

The latest model was launched in 2018 and quickly become one of the best-selling cars in the UK (it was the fourth most popular car after the MINI in 2021).

Now in its fourth generation, the A-Class continues to shine in a sector not without strong competition – think BMW 1 Series, Audi A3, Peugeot 308, DS 4 and MINI Clubman.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

So, what’s new for 2023? Well, there’s tweaked styling, upgraded equipment, added mild hybrid petrol engine technology and a wider colour choice.

The exterior changes are subtle with revised lights front and rear, and LEDs as standard. There are now a couple of slim bonnet bulges and the front grille is bigger than ever.

The big change is inside where the latest MBUX infotainment system has been fitted.

As seen on Mercedes-Benz cars higher up the range, it’s a slick and stylish set-up featuring two 10.25-inch screens.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Meanwhile, it’s more comfortable than ever with four-way lumbar support on both seats up front, while the overall quality of materials in the cabin and finish is superb.

There’s a choice of three petrol engines, a diesel and a plug-in hybrid.

All new Mercedes-Benz A-Class petrol engines now have 48V mild hybrid tech.

A 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo is at the core of the petrol and hybrid engine options, while the diesel gets a 148bhp 2.0-litre unit, delivering 57.6mpg economy.

We tested the entry-level A180 (petrol) and A250 e (plug-in hybrid) versions.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

The former produces 134bhp, delivering a 0-62mph time of 9.3 seconds and a top speed of 134mph. Capable of up to 48.7mph, its CO2 emissions are a reasonable 134g/km.

The PHEV option, which sadly is only available on the saloon version of the A-Class, pairs the 1.3-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, giving a total output of 212bhp.

The small 15.6kWh battery gives a pure EV range of up to 51 miles with on-paper fuel economy of up to 353mpg, and CO2 emissions of just 23g/km.

With a 0-62mph time of 7.5 seconds, it has a top speed of 143mph. If you want even more pace, then look at the performance-orientated Mercedes-AMG A-Class line-up.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

First the A180. The mild hybrid system is designed to make the engine start process quieter and allows the car to ‘sail’ with the engine switched off when cruising or coasting to a halt.

On the road the A 180 feels swifter than the official figures suggest – more than enough for everyday driving.

The mild hybrid tech works well, with smooth starting from a standstill and extra oomph when you get going. Mercedes claims the battery gives the car a 14bhp power boost when pulling away or during acceleration, and I can well believe this. What’s more, 50mpg is very achievable on a sensibly-driven longer run.

You can also choose from four driving modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport and Individual). As ever, Comfort is just fine, with Eco dulling the driving the experience. Sport increases throttle response and livens up things a little, but the A180 is at its best cruising along.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

The engine is refined, only becoming vocal under heavy acceleration, while the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox is smooth and responsive.

If you prefer a low driving position, then you’ll like the A-Class. The steering is quick and it can be hustled through corners with well-controlled body roll.

It’s not a Ford Focus or BMW 1-Series, but it feels planted and the ride is a good blend of comfort (on the firm side) and driving engagement.

The A250e PHEV is the more powerful and slicker of our test cars. Starting off in whisper-quiet EV mode, it’s a while before the petrol motor kicks in.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Again, most at home in Comfort mode, it switches from petrol to electric and vice versa smoothly most of the time. It’s a little heavier than its mild hybrid sibling, but it still manages to deliver an enjoyable ride.

The eight-speed automatic gearbox isn’t best in class, but goes through the motions, while the accelerator pedal is a little on the sensitive side.

The A250e can be charged from 10-100% at an AC charging station in 1 hour and 15 minutes, or 1 hour 45 minutes using a home wallbox.

Given the tax benefits, the A250e makes absolute sense for business users. Private buyers should be put off though. If you can manage without the hatchback, you have a home charger and you don’t cover high mileages, your visits to the petrol station will be few and far between because you’ll be running your A-Class in EV mode most of the time.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

When it comes to space, the A-Class has plenty up front, and unless you’re over six foot, it’s fine in the back too. Luggage capacity is a useful 355 litres in the hatchback, expanding to 1,195 with the rear seats folded. Battery storage means the PHEV takes a small hit (345/1125 litres).

Ultimately, the A-Class isn’t quite as sporty as it looks, but there’s still fun to be had, it drives well, and it’s practical.

Verdict: Mercedes-Benz has done just enough to keep the A-Class relevant in the premium family hatchback sector. Stylish, easy to drive, comfortable and well equipped, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class oozes quality.

Mercedes-Benz UK

EMBRACING ELECTRIC VEHICLES FOR A SMARTER TOMORROW

Guest Blogger

3 days ago
Auto Blog

Ready to experience the thrill of the best electric vehicles? Buckle up and join me on this journey as I take you through the best electric vehicles in 2023, starting with the luxurious Smart#1 from Mercedes Benz. This superlative brand offers fantastic capabilities and features that will leave you over the moon.

Features of the Smart#1

The Smart#1 electric vehicle is equipped with gorgeous LED headlights that offer a stylish appearance and intelligence. You can choose your favourite colour from over 64 options and illuminate every mood with 20 illumination levels. Its halo roof design allows you to enjoy the feeling of space travel from the comfort of your seat, showcasing a clear blue sky or stars. It’s simply out of this world. The new smart car model also has a full LED touchscreen, a 12.8-inch display screen, and a full 9.2-inch LCD HD digital instrument cluster, where you can get directions and play your favourite music tracks while on the go. These fantastic features apply to all Smart#1 electric vehicles. The Smart#1 all-wheel-drive system provides maximum traction on slippery surfaces, ensuring you stay in control no matter what the road conditions are like. The super wheel system combines sensors and computer controls to adjust power distribution. You will surely love it with the super all-wheel system.

Classification of the Smart#1

The Smart#1 electric vehicle comes in different types: Smart#1 Brabus, Smart#1 Premium, and Smart#1 Pro.

  • The Smart#1 Brabus offers exceptional performance compared to other electric vehicles, with a maximum speed of 180km, total power of 315kW (428 PS), and the ability to use 66 kilowatts per hour. It can accelerate to 62mph in just 3.9 seconds, making it a strong machine that will get you to your destination faster than expected. The electric vehicle has an interactive feature that’s easy to use. Brabus has won the hearts of many enthusiasts, and we hope we can earn yours too.
  • The Smart#1 Premium offers exclusive luxury comfort with ample space for people and goods. Rated as the most revolutionary vehicle of the year, it has convenient charging of 150 kilowatts, can travel up to 273 miles on a single charge, and its thermal heat pump is designed to supply heat during cold weather seasons. It is considered the biggest Smart vehicle, with a catered luggage boot that involves a 15- liter space located under the bonnet. This amazing car isn’t that heavy, with a Kerb weight of 1788 kilograms, which is more than twice the weight of the already EQ fortwo. All thanks to the brisk performance and a nice-mannered chassis.
  • The Smart#1 Pro is a boss when it comes to combining convenience and comfortability. With an artistic design, this vehicle is equipped with an adaptive high beam that allows you to see long distances at night. The amazing characteristic of this car is with its single motor version, which totally impacts the cost of these Smart#1 Pro vehicles, providing simplicity at an energy-efficient rate compared to other brands of electric vehicles using duo or multiple motor versions, making it more convenient for you.

Why Choose the Smart#1 EV?

One significant advantage of the Smart#1 EV is that it is cost-effective compared to other brands on the market. With low maintenance, this vehicle will save you a great deal of money in the long run. It is remotely accessible through the Smart app, where you can monitor your vehicle’s location, mileage rate, and car condition. You can simply run upgrades to your electric vehicle network with this automated app. choose a smart electric vehicle today and you will never regret it. The security of the Smart#1 electric vehicles is top-notch both inside and out. The vehicle’s screen gadget uses the internet, but all conversations and privacy are protected, making it highly unlikely for anyone to gain unauthorized access. Furthermore, these electric vehicles are built with sturdy steel, making them highly resistant to break-ins.

Lastly, the Smart#1 EV produces zero emissions, making it environmentally friendly and perfect for anyone who wants to protect the environment while enjoying a peaceful ride experience. When it comes to durability The Smart#1 electric vehicles pass numerous durability tests as they are built with high-quality materials designed to withstand the test of time. The body of the car is made from a mix of lightweight materials that are also built to last. So, what are you waiting for? Visit smart#1 today to check out the fantastic features of the Smart#1 EV. Get ready to unleash a new world of exciting experiences as you embark on a smart future with an EV!

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Wimbledon stars and their cars

Novak Djokovic – an ambassador for PEUGEOT

With Wimbledon fast approaching, all eyes are on the world’s elite players as they battle for one of the sport’s most lucrative prizes.

Overall, there’s £40.35 million worth of prize money to play for, spread out over four rounds, the semi-finals and the finals.

The 2022 Wimbledon winners will win £2m each and the runners-up get a cool £1.05m, with much more to be earned via sponsorships.

As a result, the most famous tennis players boast some of the world’s best car collections.

Prestige car experts Anglo Scottish Asset Finance know a thing or two about luxury cars, and they’ve taken a look at some of the car collections of some of tennis’s most famous players to find out who’s got the biggest and best car collection.

Novak Djokovic
Estimated value of car collection: £830,000
Six-time Wimbledon winner and holder of 20 Grand Slam Men’s singles, Serbian legend Novak Djokovic is a well-known petrolhead. A brand ambassador for Peugeot, Djokovic is the owner of numerous electric cars, one of which is a limited edition E-208 bestowed on him by Peugeot. He is also the proud owner of a Tesla Model X.

As well as his electric cars, Djokovic’s collection includes a series of sportier motors, including an Audi R8, Aston Martin DB9 (worth over £200,000), and Bentley GT Continental. For everyday use, where a more understated car is required, he also has a Fiat 500.

With Djokovic’s Aston Martin retailing for over £200,000, and his Bentley, Audi R8 and Mercedes S500 all retailing for over £100,000, his collection will be the envy of petrolheads around the world.

Rafael Nadal
Estimated value of car collection: £836,000
With 21 Grand Slam titles and two Wimbledon wins, Nadal holds the most Men’s singles titles in history. Having faced Djokovic 58 times, their rivalry is considered one of the greatest ever – and their car collections rival each other too.

Sponsored by Kia, Nadal was gifted their most exciting sports car – the Kia Stinger GT, boasting 365hp and twin-turbo V6 engine. Nadal clearly feels the need for speed, as the owner of an Aston Martin DBS and Ferrari 458 Italia, the fastest car in his collection, with a top speed of 203mph. He even owns a Mercedes AMG GTS, adorned with an eye-catching tennis ball paint job.

When it comes to cars, Nadal might just edge Djokovic out. With the Aston Martin and Ferrari alone worth almost £500,000, the estimated value of his collection just pips that of his competitor.

Serena Williams
Estimated value of car collection: £637,000
Winner of 23 Grand Slams, Serena Williams is one of the most decorated women’s players of all time, and has the car collection to match! Williams owns an Aston Martin Vanquish, having been previously sponsored by the British car manufacturer, and is also the owner of a Bentley Continental GT.

Williams is the owner of a Mercedes G-wagon, and her garage is also home to some slightly more accessible ‘everyday’ cars, like a 2016 Mini Cooper, and a Lincoln Navigator. Upon becoming the face of Lincoln in 2018, Williams immediately got behind the wheel of a Navigator, which she had owned as her first car years prior – her beloved SUV was back.

Williams’ Aston Martin Vanquish, worth over £300,000, is the figurehead of her collection, which is estimated to be worth well over £600,000.

jaguaripace.

Andy Murray
Estimated value of car collection: £444,000
Having passed his driving test just five months before, Scottish hero Andy Murray ditched his understated VW Polo for a bright red Ferrari 430 – quite the improvement! However, after admitting that he felt like ‘a bit of a prat,’ Murray switched the Ferrari for a classier Aston Martin DB9, made famous by James Bond.

In 2015, Murray won the Munich Open, his first title on clay. A BMW i8 was included as part of his prize, and he also became the owner of a Jaguar I-Pace as a result of a sponsorship deal with Jaguar. Despite his ever-growing car collection, Murray still owns his original VW Polo, stating: ‘I enjoy driving it. It was my first car and I’m attached to it.’

Murray’s understated British charm extends to his car collection – whilst not as lavish as Nadal or Djokovic, his garage oozes class.

Roger Federer
Estimated value of car collection: £638,000
Suave Swiss player Roger Federer has developed a stunning car collection over the years, having held a lucrative contract with Mercedes-Benz since 2008. Federer owns at least six different models.

Federer is famously the owner of a sunburst-yellow Mercedes AMG GTS, as well as an AMG G63, more commonly known as a G-wagon. Boasting a Mercedes for every occasion, Federer has a convertible SL AMG for a sunny afternoon and a 4×4 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S – there’s plenty of horsepower in his garage. He also owns a Range Rover – a staple of the pro sportsman’s car garage.

Though we’re sure Federer will have paid nothing for his car collection, it’s still the envy of car owners around the world, worth well over £600,000.

Naomi Osaka
Estimated value of car collection: > £250,000
A four-time Grand Slam singles champion, Naomi Osaka secured a sponsorship with Nissan in 2018 after beating Serena Williams in the U.S. Open. As part of their partnership, Nissan released a series of limited edition GT-Rs.

Osaka helped pick the colour combinations for the new GT-Rs, which she described as her ‘dream car.’ Available in Midnight Opal, Brilliant White Pearl and Meteor Flake Black Pearl, the production run of the new GT-Rs was limited to 50, making Osaka the owner of one of the rarest cars on this list. 

Whilst we don’t know much about Osaka’s other motors, you can expect her uber-rare limited edition GT-R to fetch at least £250,000!

From powerful sports cars to G-wagons and luxury 4x4s, tennis’s biggest stars rightly own some of the best cars on the planet – which will maintain their value on account of being owned by a famous tennis player!

Despite having the option of owning any car on the planet, it’s nice to know that there’s still room in Andy Murray’s garage for his old VW Polo.

“Many of the world’s top sportspeople pride themselves on their car collection, and tennis is no different,” said Allan Hetherington, Head of Prestige Car Finance at Anglo Scottish.

“However, with personalised prestige car finance options available, you need not feel priced out of affording your dream car.”