Mercedes’ performance arm, AMG, has been on a roll in the Indian market, having launched five new models in the past year. The sixth and seventh models to launch in the country will be facelifted versions of the CLA 45 and GLA 45, scheduled to arrive on November 7, 2017.
There will also be special-edition models under Mercedes-Benz’s 'designo' personalisation platform, called Aero Editions, allowing customers to customise their vehicles according to their preferences.
The performance-oriented four-door coupe and SUV will be available in a new black finish and feature some external changes, including decals on the doors and a sporty yellow strip running on the front and rear bumpers, the sides, on the outside rear view mirrors and the blacked-out alloy wheels. The GLA also gets a boot-mounted spoiler with yellow touches, further accentuating the sporty theme.
In terms of equipment, the facelifted CLA and GLA will also feature a new 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 360-degree camera. On the inside, we expect similar yellow elements in the cabin, along with special-edition badges for the Aero Edition models.
The engine and transmission options will continue to be the same as the standard models. The CLA 45 and GLA 45 share the 1,991cc, four-cylinder, turbo-petrol mill that produces 381hp and 475Nm of torque. The motor is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels via Mercedes’ 4Matic system.
As the current CLA 45 is priced at Rs 86 lakh while the GLA 45 costs Rs 88.99 lakh (both prices on-road, Delhi), expect the new models to cost a small premium over the outgoing ones.