2020 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 4Matic debuts with 310PS and 400Nm

Team OD Updated: December 12, 2019, 07:00 PM IST

Mercedes-Benz recently unveiled the new Mercedes-Benz GLA. This is the smallest SUV in its line-up and with this second-gen model, rounds off the brand's new line of small cars based on a front-wheel drive architecture. Like its siblings, the GLA SUV will also get its share of Mercedes-AMG versions, starting with the GLA 35 AMG 4Matic you see here.

As of now, this is the only AMG GLA shown, a 45 monikered version will eventually be added. Like the GLB 35, this SUV gets a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine which makes 310PS and 400Nm. This allows for a claimed 0 to 100kmph time of 5.1s and a 250kmph top speed. This comes paired with a new AMG honed 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 4Matic AWD system has also been retuned for this application, letting power be split 50:50 between both axles when required. Significant mechanical changes have been made to the standard GLA's structure to make it better suited for the extra power.

The front section of the bodyshell has been reinforced with the addition of a shear panel under the engine and two braces at the front. There are new suspension components and an optional AMG-specific adaptive suspension system that allows for three different suspension settings. Other changes are a high-performance braking system with larger ventilated discs and unique AMG callipers, a new steering rack with a set-up that allows for more feedback, and a new front section of the bodyshell that uses an exhaust gas flap to modulate sound as per the modes. Rounding off all these are the five driving modes, which ranges from Slippery to Sport+ and Individual. A new addition here is the AMG Dynamics handling control system. This system uses the ESP to further enhance the GLA's handling capabilities. This system comes in two modes and imperceptible brake the inside rear wheel during cornering to help the GLA 35 AMG turn-in better.

The design of the GLA 35 takes inspiration from larger AMG cars. Unique to this variant is the AMG-specific radiator grille, the louvres at the edges of the air dam, and a front splitter finished in silver or gloss black. There's a new diffuser at the rear, an AMG spoiler, and two tailpipes. Rounding these changes off are the 19-inch AMG wheels, 20 and 21-inch options are also available. The optional AMG Night package adds gloss-black design elements, dark-tinted glass from the B-pillar to the rear and black chrome-plated exhaust tailpipes. On the inside, there is carbon-fibre patterned trim, red accents, contrasting red seatbelts and stitching with the seat upholstery, an AMG steering wheel with can be optioned out for the sportier AMG performance wheel. Lastly, the widescreen digital cockpit gets AMG-specific dials and sub-menus for functions specific to this car. The centre console also has additional buttons to controls this car's new functions. The AMG Track Pace data logging system has also been integrated into the MBUX infotainment system.