Mercedes-Benz is planning an onslaught of AMG variants across its range of models. At one time the letters were reserved for extremely high-performance versions of selected models, they are much more widespread today. What’S more, they are produced under a separate Mercedes-AMG banner.
A side effect of the multiplication of models carrying that badging is the increasingly complexity of the luxury automaker’s model naming system!
Today’s news concerns AMG-branded models carrying the 45 label. Vehicles denominated 43 and 63 are already part of certain models’ rosters, with the 43s soon to be replaced by 53s. What’s important to keep in mind is this: the higher the number, the more power lurks under the hood.
As for the 45 models, Autocar magazine reports that they will deliver more power than ever to the automaker’s entry-level models. First up to get the AMG treatment will be the A Class, which debuted earlier this year. The next-generation CLA and GLA models will be next in line. For all three of these models, AMG 45 versions will be produced.
An improved version of the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine serving the current 45 models will boost output well beyond 400 hp, according to Autocar. That means over 200 horses per litre – a number we could scarcely have imagined possible just a few years ago.
There had been rumours of hybrid 45s being under consideration, but AMG head Tobia Myers explained to Autocar that that would not be happening. The company is working on hybrid technologies, but it is choosing to introduce them larger products first.
With the next generation of 45s getting increased power capabilities, that presumably leaves room for new variants that could slide in beneath them. A 300-hp A 43 AMG 4MATIC, for example, would make a compelling rival versus the Volkswagen Golf Type R.
The manufacturer could end up with AMG 43 and 45 versions for entry-level models, and AMG 53 and 63 editions of the larger, more powerful models, like the C-Class and E-Class.
All of this could happen sooner rather than later. AMG is in full expansion mode and is exploring every growth opportunity. The time to try new things is now, evidently, and those tries are successful for Mercedes-Benz, the sky might well be the limit for the AMG division and its decision-makers.
We will be watching developments closely, starting with the 400+-horsepower 4-cylinder engine that we’re just itching to try!
