2021 Mercedes-AMG A35 4MATIC Gallery

Could AMG's cheapest sedan be its most appealing? On paper, at least, the 2021 Mercedes-AMG A35 4MATIC is at a disadvantage. No inline-6 or V8 here, simply Mercedes' familiar 2.0-liter inline-four turbo, though AMG's handiwork squeezes 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque from it. That's significantly more than the Mercedes-Benz A220 offers.

Combined with an AMG Speedshift DCT 7-speed gearbox and optional sports suspension, and you get a pocket-rocket of a car. 0-60 mph comes in 4.6 seconds, and the A35 feels fast enough to excite without instantly hurling you into license-losing territory. It looks the part too, especially with the optional AMG Aerodynamics Package and AMG Night Package, plus special 19-inch black alloys.

Inside, there's plenty of space up-front and a slightly less accommodating rear and trunk. The MBUX infotainment is top-notch, however, with twin displays and effective voice control. Pricing kicks off at $45,850 (plus $1,050 destination).