Mercedes CLA 45 AMG review, test drive

What also makes the entire experience so much nicer is the specially kitted-out AMG cabin. The brushed aluminium instrument panel, the carbon-fibre trim and the metallic paddle shifters all make it feel special. What’s also different from the regular CLA cabin (otherwise virtually identical to that of the A-class) is the fact that the gear lever is back in the centre console on this car.

The CLA 45 AMG isn’t likely to be one of the most practical cars around, especially in our conditions. Yes, it has a large boot, which is practical, but it has a low chin that will need to be babied over speedbreakers. There’s relatively little space in the rear and the stiff ride isn’t likely to be perfect for our conditions either. None of that, however, is likely to matter too much. The car looks stunning, goes like a bomb and Mercedes is expected to price it competitively too; somewhere around Rs 85 lakh (ex-showroom). This just could be one of the most successful performance sedans sold here yet.