Mercedes-Benz is working on its next-generation compact
range and according to a report out of the United Kingdom the
high-performance versions from Mercedes-AMG will offer at least 400 horsepower
and eventually even hybrid technology.
AMG’s current compact range, which consists of the A45
hatchback, CLA45 sedan and GLA45
SUV, offers 375 hp. Based on information from its sources, Autocar is
reporting that the successor models will have at least 400 hp.
The final figure will likely be higher to ensure AMG has the
edge over Audi Sport whose latest RS 3 is delivering 400 hp.
Yes, the power war is still very much alive among the German automakers.
The AMGs will draw their power from an uprated version of
the tuner's existing 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4. Enhancements are thought
to include new fuel injectors, a new turbocharger and changes to the combustion
process.
For subsequent performance increases, AMG engineers are
thought to be dabbling with hybrid technology, specifically the mild-hybrid system
Mercedes plans to introduce for its next-generation inline-4 engines. The
system features a 48-volt
belt-driven starter generator that can aid the engine during high-load
situations and recover energy at other times. The tuner is also said to be
looking at electric compressors, similar to what Audi is already using on its SQ7
TDI.
Note, AMG is also reportedly looking at hybrid technology
for a new
‘53’ series range based on larger Mercedes models.
Beyond the more potent powerplant, the new AMG compacts will
also benefit from changes planned for Mercedes’ own next-generation compacts.
The list includes a larger yet lighter structure, a 9-speed dual-clutch
transmission, and more advanced electronic driver aids. All-wheel drive will
remain standard.
One of the performance targets is a 0-60 mph time in under
4.0 seconds. Top speed will likely remain capped at 155 mph.
The first of Mercedes’ next-generation compacts will be a
new A-Class hatchback in 2018. The A45 hatchback should trail the regular hatch
by about a year. Mercedes plans to add three more body styles to its compact
range, bringing the total to eight. One of these will be an A-Class sedan,
previewed by the A Sedan
concept unveiled in April at the 2017 Shanghai auto show.
Interestingly, the concept previews the new A-Class sedan in AMG flavor.
Other AMG compacts will include new versions of the CLA45,
GLA45 and possibly a new, extra-rugged GLB45 SUV.
We hear there will also be tamer AMG compact cars along the
lines of the ‘43’ series cars currently offered by the tuner. These are
expected to come with around 275 hp and challenge the Volkswagen Golf GTIs and
Ford Focus STs of the world.
Despite AMG looking on track to deliver close to 100,000
cars this year, it’s clear the tuner has no interest in slowing down. Let’s
hope the brand manages to retain some exclusivity after the coming expansion of
the range.
source: http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1087103_next-mercedes-amg-a45-to-have-at-least-400-horsepower-possibly-hybrid-tech
by Viknesh Vijayenthiran
http://www.boscheuropean.com
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