Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 and CLA 45 S 4Matic+ Shooting Brakes debut

Mercedes has pulled the covers of a pair of new shooting brake cars that we will never see Stateside. The cars are the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4Matic+ and the CLA 45 S 4Matic+. Both of the cars use the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engines, but the power output is different between the two.

The CLA 45 makes 387 horsepower and 480 Nm of torque. The hotter CLA 45 S makes 421 hp and 500Nm of torque. That is enough power to push the 45 S to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds with the standard CLA 45 needing 4.1 seconds for the same feat.

The base model is limited to a top speed of 250 km/h while the S model can reach 270 km/h. Base CLA 45 buyers can unlock the higher 270 km/h top speed if they choose the optional AMG Driver's package. Mercedes uses two-stage fuel injection to optimize the performance of the car. It also has a cooling system that can cool the engine, turbo, and charge air.

The engine inside the cars are hand-built by a single tech and paired up with an 8-speed AMG Speedshift DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission. Both are fitted with Race-Start launch control function, and the AWD system has AMG Torque Control. Other features include AMG Ride Control with three modes for different driving situations and conditions.

A special braking system uses 4-piston monobloc fixed front calipers and single-piston floating calipers at the rear. An optional Dynamic Plus package brings a larger brake system. The cars feature MBUX Infotainment systems and AMD Performance steering wheel with optional control buttons. Pricing for both modes is unannounced, and the car is aimed at drivers who need a vehicle that works for their active lifestyle.