155

I've thoroughly enjoyed the last 4 years in my 2010 Civic SI sedan but it's now time to move on. A sad day indeed but they say change is good right?

With our expanding family my wife will be using my car a few times a week and I think the CLA would fit the bill perfectly. A fun car up to 8/10's, turbo, fast, great looks and three pointed star, how can you go wrong?

I'm debating the following options in these trims:

Option A
- CLA250 4matic
- Red on black
- Sport package w/18's
- Dark ash trim
- Bi-xenons

Option B
- CLA45 AMG
- Red on black
- Carbon interior trim

I'm not crazy about optioning out my vehicles (as you can probably tell) but I'm open to hearing feedback on what you feel are the "must have's". Our family car, an R350 is a stripper model and it's proved to be squeak free and reliable for us for the past 6 years (minus the factory rebuilt transmission at $10k )

Not that this really matters but I plan to upgrade the ECU/TCU for more power and pointier shifting in either case.

So AMG. I've never owned an AMG but i've driven enough to know one will be in my garage one day. I'll go ahead and just say it. I'm having a hard time justifying the CLA AMG when a 250 + tune offers such incredible bang for the buck.

I'd love to hear your thoughts.

LakeShow23

Sorry dude, no matter which way you cut it a standard Mercedes will never be anywhere even remotely close to what an AMG gives you overall. Especially not a 250 and 45AMG.

CLA45AMG2.0

Lol that's like saying a CLK350 is like a CLK55 AMG. Lol GOOD TRY BRO! LOL

AMG Boost

If you are an enthusiast. Go for CLA45. Forged internals, bigger brakes, chassis and handling tuned by AMG... You wont regret it man AMG makes killer cars.

I got a 08 civic si also for my DD.

CLA45 has the most powerful 4cyl in production ever... That is enough reason for me

Also as far as tuning... Its possible. But a tuned CLA250 will still get raped by a stock 45.

nk789

if you are a car guy and you like performance, its a no brainer, just go for the Cla45. Your smiles will last a lot longer with an AMG car. Don't waste your money on aftermarket parts because no matter what you add, its never gonna come close to a CLA45, the engine internals are much stronger. If you just want a stylish daily commute with good gas mileage, go for the Cla250.

kickR

Ask yourself what you want more. A small upgrade to replace your Civic, or that AMG that you imagine in your garage one day, but that day coming true as early as tomorrow. The 250 will never be a 45 and you will regret choosing the smaller of the two everytime you come across a true AMG, I promise you!

vaelin

Even with the best available piggyback available today, you're still going to be down by 100hp from a 45 if you get a 250.

tekfoc

The All-New 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG


'Driving Performance' at its Best


MONTVALE, NJ – Mercedes-Benz AMG will celebrate its world debut of the
2014 model year CLA45 AMG at the New York International Auto Show. The four-door coupe follows in the design footsteps of the successful CLS63
AMG, the trendsetter for four-door high-performance coupes. With a maximum power output of 355 hp and a peak torque of 332 lb.-ft., the 2014
CLA45 AMG is the world's most powerful four-cylinder engine built in series production. The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive on the CLA45 AMG sets new standards in the competitive segment as well. The 2014 CLA45 AMG goes on sale in the U.S. this November.


Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "In the CLA45 AMG,
Mercedes-AMG presents a unique and absolutely desirable automobile with the characteristic AMG genes. The high-tech package with the world's most powerful four-cylinder production engine and performance-oriented AMG
4MATIC all-wheel drive stands for 'Driving Performance' at its best."


Mercedes-Benz AMG establishes a new segment with the exciting new four-door performance coupe CLA45 AMG -


Key figures at a glance:

Press Information



March 27, 2013






Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG

Displacement

1,991 cc

Bore x stroke

83.0 x 92.0 mm

Compression ratio

8.6 : 1

Rated power output (U.S.)

355 hp at 6,000 rpm

Peak torque (U.S.)

332 lb.-ft. at 2,250-5,000 rpm



Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand


















Engine weight (dry)

326 lbs.

Maximum engine speed

6,700 rpm

Power density

178 hp per liter

Maximum boost pressure

26.1 psi (1.8 bar)

Acceleration 0-60 mph km/h

4.5s (est)

Top speed

155 mph




*electronically limited


Pure AMG: the most powerful four-cylinder production engine in the world


The 2014 CLA45 AMG 2.0-liter turbo engine is the most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder production engine with a maximum power output of 355 hp and a peak torque of 332 lb.-ft. of torque.


The combination of high power, strong torque and performance-oriented AMG
4MATIC all-wheel drive lend the CLA45 AMG superb driving performance. The powerful coupe sprints from 0-60 in 4.5 seconds. Top speed
is electronically limited to 155 mph. Mercedes-AMG achieves these impressive figures by the use of high-tech engineering throughout the engine and related systems. The combination of multiple injection and multiple spark ignition improves fuel utilization and substantially increases thermodynamic efficiency, leading to low exhaust emissions. Other highlights include the sand-cast all- aluminum crankcase, weight-optimized crank assembly with forged steel crankshaft and forged pistons with friction-optimized piston rings, NANOSLIDE cylinder lining technology, water-to-air intercooling, alternator management
and ECO Start/Stop function.


Twin-scroll turbochargers and AMG sports exhaust system with butterfly valve


Mercedes-AMG masters the essential challenges concerning the response of small-displacement turbo engines by means of a twin-scroll turbocharger, minimized restrictions in the exhaust system and an innovative injection strategy. The twin-scroll technology makes effective use of exhaust gas back pressure, temperature and momentum to provide a more spontaneous build-up of boost pressure. This results in a quicker build-up of torque from low revs. As a positive side effect, the twin-scroll technology also benefits fuel consumption




and exhaust emissions. With a maximum boost pressure of 26.1 psi (1.8 bar),
the AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine also leads the field in this respect.



The AMG performance exhaust system features large pipe cross-sections and an automatically controlled butterfly valve in the exhaust system. This technology, which is familiar from the SLK55 AMG, allows the CLA45 to deliver a commanding roar on acceleration while also offering a refined note during sustained speed, such as on the highway. The valve is continuously adjusted by the engine mapping in line with the accelerator input, load status and engine speed.


It provides for an even more emotional and striking exhaust note when the throttle is open and when shifting gears. The rev-matching function during downshifts and the suppression of ignition and injection during upshifts under full load produce a particularly powerful sound with the AMG Performance exhaust system creates a level of emotion that is typically reserved for engines with more than four cylinders.


High-performance cooling system with components from the SLS AMG GT


The high level of driving dynamics of the 2014 CLA45 AMG call for a highly effective cooling system. Similar to the technology of the SLS AMG GT, a low- temperature circuit is additionally installed for water-to-air intercooling of the charge air of the four-cylinder turbo engine. The large radiator at the very front of the cooling module is supplemented by an additional radiator in the wheel well. A high-performance electric pump provides the required flow through the water radiators located behind the large intake ports and the intercooler connected in line. This provides ideal cooling of the highly compressed charge air, thereby contributing towards optimum engine performance.


Cooling of the transmission oil is integrated into the hot-water cooling circuit of the engine. The radiator positioned behind the front fascia is supported by the heat exchanger, which is fitted directly on the transmission and supplied with cooling water as required by means of an auxiliary pump.


"One man, one engine": engine production the traditional artisan way


Like all eight- and twelve-cylinder engines, the new AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine is also hand-built according to the traditional AMG philosophy of "one man, one engine." An exclusive assembly line has been set up for the new






Page 3





AMG engine at the Mercedes-Benz engine production plant in Kölleda, Germany. A characteristic feature of the "one man, one engine" production process is the AMG engine plate bearing the signature of the responsible engine fitter. Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative production quality, the AMG engine plate also attests to the peerless genes of the Mercedes-Benz high-performance brand.


AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed sports transmission


Dual clutch transmission and all-wheel drive – the drive train on board the CLA45 AMG is a demonstration of high-end engineering prowess. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed sports transmission is mounted directly to the transversely installed AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine. The dual clutch transmission of the CLA45 AMG features seven gears, three driving programs,
a rev-matching function and RACE START for optimum acceleration. The highlights of the AMG DCT sports transmission include spontaneous gearshifts without interruption in tractive power, a tailor-made control strategy,
extremely smooth and easy gearshifts and a high level of efficiency. Reinforced gears ensure maximum durability. Synchronizer rings with carbon-fiber
friction linings improve longevity while also optimizing response during manual gearshifts – the ideal situation for ambitious lap times on a closed circuit.


"Momentary M mode" for even greater dynamics and driving pleasure


Another special feature designed to enhance dynamic performance and driving pleasure is the so-called "Momentary M" program. In C and S mode, this enables the driver to activate manual mode ("M") without having to remove a hand from the steering wheel by pressing the "up" or "down" shift paddle once. In "Momentary M" mode, the driver experiences the dynamics and
performance in all automatic driving programs, with automatic upshifts upon reaching the rev limit. This allows the driver to devote his full attention to the vehicle's impressive performance.


The shift times in manual mode "M" and in sport mode "S" are of similar sporty character as those of the SLS AMG GT super sports car. Brief and precise suppression of ignition and injection under full load leads to even faster gearshifts with a more emotional sound than ever. In "C" mode (Controlled Efficiency), soft transmission and engine characteristics are conducive to a
fuel-efficient and comfort-oriented driving style. In addition, the ECO Start/Stop










Page 4




function is active in "C" mode.


Performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive



The 2014 CLA45 AMG features variable AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive as standard. In developing this all-wheel-drive system, the focus was on "performance" and "dynamic spirit." The power transfer to the rear drive train is facilitated by a compact power take-off unit (PTU), which is fully integrated
into the 7-speed sports transmission. Its lubrication is supplied by the oil circuit of the sports transmission. This configuration results in substantial weight advantages compared with rival systems, which branch off power by means of
an add-on component with dedicated circuit. Together with the friction- minimized tapered roller bearings, the PTU delivers excellent efficiency. As an additional bonus, the system weight of the new AMG 4MATIC
all-wheel drive is up to 25 percent less than the all-wheel-drive versions offered by the competition.


A two-part propeller shaft transfers the power of the AMG 2.0-liter four- cylinder turbo engine to the rear axle. In the interests of favorable weight distribution, an electrohydraulically controlled multi-disc clutch is integrated into the rear axle differential. The multi-disc clutch immediately detects slip at the front axle. A hydraulic pump instantaneously presses the discs together and channels the engine torque to the rear wheels as necessary. All this takes place virtually unnoticed by the driver. To enable particularly fast response, the pump is always active and does not require to be started up each time it is
needed, as is usually the case with other systems. Torque split is fully variable:
in normal driving, the CLA45 AMG has front-wheel drive bias in the interests of optimum efficiency. If the driving dynamics require, the variable AMG
4MATIC all-wheel drive splits the torque between front and rear axle at a ratio of up to 50 : 50 percent. The variables influencing the torque split ratio are vehicle speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, steering angle, speed difference between the individual wheels, selected gear and accelerator position.


3-stage ESP® with ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist


An exclusive feature is the interaction of the AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive with the 3-stage ESP® and ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist. The three ESP® stages enable the driver to vary the dynamics of the CLA45 AMG according to his/her individual preferences at the push of a button. The safety-oriented "ESP ON"




Page 5




mode supports the driver in maintaining neutral handling characteristics. The system initiates braking intervention on one or more wheels and reduces the
engine torque on detecting the onset of unstable driving conditions.



Briefly pressing the ESP® button activates "SPORT Handling" mode. This dynamically oriented driving mode applies appropriate control strategies for delayed ESP® intervention and increased torque at the rear axle. This means more driving pleasure for drivers who are keen to exploit the vehicle's dynamic potential. Pressing and holding the ESP® button activates "ESP OFF" mode. In this mode, the ESP® functions are not available. ESP OFF should only be used by experienced drivers on closed circuits. However, when the driver steps on the brake pedal in "SPORT Handling" or "ESP OFF" mode, all safety functions of the ESP® system are available for the duration of the brake application.


ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist complements the ESP® system to perfection: during dynamic cornering, imperceptible brake intervention on an inside wheel vectors torque to create a defined yaw movement around the vertical axis, resulting in precise and safe turn-in of the CLA45 AMG. ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist is adapted according to the selected ESP® mode. In "SPORT Handling" and "ESP OFF" mode it aids in fulfilling the driver's wish for increased agility and driving dynamics. ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist is an additional function of the Electronic Stability Program which noticeably improves not only agility, but also active driving safety at the limits of the laws of physics.


AMG sports suspension with multi-link front and rear axles


Like every AMG high-performance automobile, the CLA45 AMG also incorporates sophisticated axle technology. For enhanced driving dynamics, the three-link front suspension is provided with stiffer steering knuckles and totally new elastokinematics. Newly developed, more rigid bearings are employed in the lower link plane. These ensure more agile turn-in properties and more precise and direct feedback from the road surface. The more rigid
bearings also lead to higher camber stability, allowing higher cornering speeds. In developing the complete front axle, great importance has been attached to attaining the best possible traction under highly dynamic driving conditions.


The four-link rear axle of the CLA45 AMG is also a totally new development. In the course of optimizing the elastokinematics, the strut bearings were modified
for maximum driving dynamics and control. The rear axle carrier is fitted with




Page 6





Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand





more rigid bearings for increased directional stability; the subframe is rigidly bolted to the body. The AMG sports suspension with its specifically tuned spring/damper units and larger stabilizers ensures high lateral acceleration and a reduced body rolling tendency in fast S-bends. The CLA45 AMG comes
standard with twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels inlayed in titanium gray with a high-sheen finish, fitted with size 235/40 R 18 tires.


AMG speed-sensitive sports steering and AMG high-performance braking system


The electromechanical dual pinion AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with AMG-specific, speed-dependent power assist and a constant steering ratio (14.5 : 1) enables high steering precision and agility. The electric motor is installed in space-saving configuration on the steering gear. The AMG
high-performance braking system with ventilated and perforated front
and rear brake discs measuring 13.8” x 1.2” at the front and 13.0” x 0.8” at the rear provides spontaneous and reliable deceleration.


Unmistakable design


The new CLA45 AMG leaves no doubt even at first glance; similarities with the CLS63 AMG are intentional. Mercedes-AMG complements the expressive design idiom with distinctive AMG elements and thus creates a new design icon. The CLA was born with sporty proportions – the AMG "twin blade" radiator grille and the cross member in the AMG front fascia, both painted matte titanium gray, reinforce the dynamic appearance further. The large air inlet ports on the sides are framed by black winglets and improve the air flow
to the cooling modules located behind them. Bi-xenon headlights are part of the standard equipment.


Side sill panels with matte titanium gray inserts catch the eye in the side view. Typical elements of a powerful top-of-the-line AMG model furthermore are the twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels, inlayed in titanium gray and with a high- sheen finish, as well as the "TURBO AMG" lettering on the fender. The expressive feature in the rear is the AMG rear fascia of the CLA45 AMG. It includes stylized side air vents as well as a large diffuser insert and matte titanium gray trim elements. The two chrome-plated tailpipes of the AMG exhaust system with butterfly valve emphasize the dynamic spirit. The striking LED tail lights come as standard equipment.










Page 7




Dynamic, exclusive and high-quality interior



Impressive quality, high-end materials as well as the dynamic spirit and exclusive character typical of Mercedes-AMG – the interior of the CLA45 AMG leaves nothing to be desired. Sport seats wrapped in ARTICO man-made leather and DINAMICA microfibers with red contrasting topstitching, red seat belts,
the multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles, the AMG DRIVE UNIT and front AMG door sill panels all come as standard. The brushed aluminum trim of the instrument panel is perfectly matched to the five anodized ventilation nozzles. The AMG instrument cluster provides information with a central color display, the AMG main menu and the RACETIMER.


Numerous customization options are available for the CLA45 AMG (highlights):


· AMG Exterior Carbon-Fiber package: front splitter, side sill panel inserts and trim on rear fascia in genuine carbon fiber
· AMG carbon-fiber interior trim
· Multi-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels in size 8.0J x 19 fitted with size
235/35 R 19 tires, in two versions: inlayed in titanium gray with high- sheen finish or painted matt black with high-sheen rim flange
· AMG Night Styling: black anodized beltline trim strip, tailpipes with black-
chromed finish, radiator grille blades in silver chrome, gloss black painted front splitter, exterior mirrors, side sill panel inserts and rear fascia trim
· AMG Performance steering wheel
· AMG Performance seats
· AMG wheel center cap (for standard 18” AMG light-alloy wheels only)
· Red painted calipers

155

You must have been as high as me when your wrote this

C280 Sport

Go and drive both. Yea it starts life as a CLA and AMG makes the rest of it but if you are a performance lover you could not live with the 250 lol

155

There's truth to this. The CLA45 without a doubt is a performer, with a tune 12 flat at 115mph you can't ignore its capabilities. Even in stock trim a CLA 250 with mods won't come close.

You hit the nail on the head. I'm debating a small upgrade or go for the AMG now and fulfill my dreams. Ultimately the 2015 C63 is what I want but it's out of reach for the next few years. The CLA 45 I can do NOW. ***** envy is a powerful thing.

I am a car guy and the performance of the CLA45 cannot be ignored. For those that own at CLA45, is this your first AMG? If not, what other AMG cars have you owned and how does this compare?

It's no secret the motoring press is of mixed opinion when it comes to the CLA45. Where do you think it comes from?

You know as well as I do how awesome and underrated the Civic SI is. Close ratio 6 speed transmission, LSD, 8k redline, list goes on. Finding a suitable replacement has proved to be tough! Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

Ultimately I know you're right. Thanks.

EVOII_Racer

Well done Sir,
You said it all! I agree 100%


Imo the mixed feeling of the press is only due to the 4 cylinder engine...they are too used to the amg with a v8.

However, if you are objective, inside a cla or a class the amg 2 litre engine with the special amg performance exhaust is the perfect combo.
The journalist that critizise the 45amg with the performance exhaust are full of it!

The a45 and cla45 both handle like a dream, the interior is cool, its bloody quick around corner and the steering is wonderfull around a racetrack not to mention the price ! The 45amg have almost no weaknesses and i am being objective !!!

VividRacing

AMG all the way...

vaelin

Even Vivid had a 250 and had to upgrade to a 45.

(I think? or maybe I'm confusing VR with another vendor.)

VividRacing

actually my co-worker has the 250 and one of the owner's bought the 45 (he also has a Panamera and a 991 Porsche).

soolman32

If you can afford the AMG, it seems crazy to me that you'd want the 250. You can mod the 250 all day but it'll never be an AMG. Not to mention the engine in the AMG has forged internals, so if you're passionate about modding and getting more power out of it down the road, the AMG is a much better starting point.

155

Completely agree.

The dilemma is that my heart is after the new C63 but it's out of reach right now. My lease is up on my Civic in December so I've got to make a choice pretty soon about what to do next. There's some appeal to "upgrading" to a MB for Civic money, hence option A, the practical choice. That said the CLA45 is a stunner of a vehicle and getting into the world of AMG has never been more affordable.

The timing couldn't be better as at least for us in Canada December is a good time to buy cars.

Decisions, decisions.

vaelin

You can certainly negotiate down the price of the CLA45.

At the 250 pricepoint, I'll be honest; I'd rather buy a just-off-lease 335xi or IS350.

EVOII_Racer

A little ot but not really since both the cla and gla have a very similar chassis:

I agree with you but here is why i purchased a gla 250 instead of a gla45.

The gla 250 is still quick, looks great with the amg kit and handles great with the amg chassis...

So why on earth did (one of the bigest amg fan out there) purchased a 250 ??
Only one reason: fuel economy and i tested the gla45 amg after buying the 250 because i knew the 45 was way cooler

amanuuh

Im coming from a stock e92 bmw and a FBO E90.

This was my first AMG. I personally prefer it over my last two cars. I plan on adding an exhaust, downpipe, and tune sometime but don't want to throw a lot of money into this car. I am also getting the W205 C63.

zibby43

I'll probably be stoned to death for mentioning this but if you want turbocharged performance with tons of opportunities for modifications, give the BMW M235i a look.

I've driven the M235i a few times for kicks now and it is very impressive.

Can't go wrong with the CLA45. I would pass on the 250.

natman316

45 for sure...if you dont want to spend alot of money for the 45, get the golf GTI fully loaded. best car you can buy for 35k.

Nachtsturm

If someone told me, I will give you this new CLA250 for your CLK55. I would turn it down. Unless i could use the 250 as credit towards the 45.

As others have said, AMG all the way.

jsquared27

Nothing new to add really, I have had my cla45 for just shy of 6 months and it still puts a huge grin on my face everytime I get in, start it up and hear the exhaust brap as I shift gears. The sound alone should drive you to buy the 45!!

As for must have's...It all depends on what you want in your car. Must haves for me with the 45 were Recaro Seats, upgraded exhaust, Nav and the harmon kardon sound system. Other nice things that came with my edition 1, all the safety equipment/sensors. They really assist you in knowing where other cars are around you. Also great when someone locks it up in front of you. (Collision assist)

I drove both the 250 and the 45 when they first hit show rooms. The 250 was a fun car to drive but once I got in the 45 I forgot the 250 existed. A great economical Benz,? YES, 100%. However, in terms of power and handling and fun, the 250 is a long shot away.

Good luck with either! Also, I hope you find one on a lot. There is some talk about Canadian custom orders still taking 10-12months.

checkout http://www.mercedescla.org/index.php for more info!

J_Maher_AMG

He never said anywhere that the 250 is like a 45. He is comparing the 250 with a tune to the 45. And what he said regarding the 250 with a tune being great bang for your buck, he is right.

No need to be a total Asshat with your immature 'Lol's and nonsensical "Good try bro". If you can't offer him proper advice as to why the AMG is better, better off to forgo posting at all. Just embarassing to read a reply like this to someone who is asking enthusiasts opinions as to which route he should go.