Following on from the Mercedes GLA launch last year, the German firm has now added this super-fast performance AMG model to its compact SUV line up.

Using the same 355bhp turbocharged motor as found in the smaller A45 AMG hatch, this GLA AMG 45 certainly develops the same high octane performance thrills, but in a slightly more spacious and comfortable package.

Visually, it clearly looks different to regular GLAs, thanks to the matt titanium grey AMG front apron with front splitter and twin blade radiator grille. Other stand out design features include: AMG lettering at the side between the louvres of the radiator grille and Black Flics (air deflector elements) above the large cooling air intakes.

Ride height is lower than on the regular GLA, although you still sit 40mm higher than in the A45 AMG hatch. The driving position is largely identical to that of the hatchback – which is well aligned and comfortable, although you don’t get the lofty view of the road as found in the Audi RSQ3 or Porsche Macan, for example.

The good news is that the car’s low-slung centre of gravity translates to well-balanced handling and driving manners, with precise steering, making it easy to place on twisty roads. Compared back-to-back, it’s not quite as sharp and engaging as the A45 AMG, but countering that is greater pliancy and comfort. It still feels very composed and capable of handling the performance on offer from the highly tuned, hand-built 2.0 litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. 0-62 mph is dispatched in an ultra-swift 4.8 seconds (only 0.2 seconds slower than the A45 AMG) and it’ll storm onto an electronically limited 155mph top speed. Yet, CO2 emissions are a reasonable 175g/km and with a light foot you should get somewhere near the official 37.6 combined mpg figure.

Along with sizzling performance, there’s also effortless driveability – the generous 450 Nm of torque ensuring plenty of pull from under 2000 rpm, meaning that it’s a doddle to drive around town.

The engine can sound a bit rough at lower speeds, but the sound track quickly changes into a purposeful rasping growl once some revs have been applied and in sport mode the exhaust crackles on gear change upshifts – reminiscent of a rally car.

Inside the GLA 45 AMG feels every bit as sporty as its racy exterior, with half leather and alcantara flat-bottomed steering wheel, red seat belts and red markings around the gauges. The supportive recaro sports seats hold you firmly in place, while still maintaining good levels of comfort. AMG’s trademark square leather covered gear change selector is compact (and square) in shape and very intuitive to operate - the only options being: D N R and P button for park.

Having an aerodynamic, slippery shape also means that the GLA doesn’t suffer from much wind noise, while road noise – despite the large wheels – is also pretty well isolated. The downside to the lower-slung body is that the cabin does feel a bit dark and closed-in, especially with black leather upholstery and rear privacy glass.

Like many of its ilk, the GLA’s rear visibility is a bit restricted, so the £705 Active Park Assist system comes recommended, which along with parking sensors and rear reversing camera, has the neat trick of identifying and guiding drivers’ into suitable parking spaces.

Accommodation levels are significantly better than the A-Class hatchback, with decent leg and headroom. Back aft, the 481 litre boot is well-shaped for loading luggage and capacity can be further extended to 1,235 litres with rear seats folded flat. There are also good-sized cubbies, centre armrest and cup holders.
 

Verdict: 

Mercedes GLA 45 AMG offers close to the same levels of seriously hot performance as the A45 AMG hatchback, along with greater comfort and practicality.
 

Tech spec:

Mercedes GLA 45 AMG
OTR Price: £44,595
Engine: 2.0-litre turbo
Power: 355bhp
Torque: 450NM
0-62: 4.8 seconds
Top speed: 155mph limited
MPG: 37.6
CO2: 175g/km