In addition to the A 45 AMG and CLA 45 AMG, the GLA 45 AMG is the third vehicle with the four-cylinder turbo engine to appeal to a young target group. The trend-oriented customers set great store in styling, dynamics and independence – traits that are perfectly embodied in the new high-performance SUV from Affalterbach. Meeting a wide variety of customer desires has always been one of the strengths of Mercedes-AMG. The GLA 45 AMG now expands the extensive SUV line-up to five models (GLA 45 AMG, ML 63 AMG, GL 63 AMG, G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG). Mercedes-AMG thus offers the widest range of SUVs among all high-performance premium brands.

Development of the high-performance turbo engine, which is part of the BlueDIRECT family, placed emphasis on a sustainable reduction in particulate emissions. Consequently the GLA 45 AMG today already complies with the second stage of the EU 6 emissions standards coming into effect in 2017. The AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine features spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors positioned centrally in the four combustion chambers and an injection pressure of 200 bar. The combination of multiple fuel injection and multiple spark ignition improves fuel economy and significantly increases the thermodynamic efficiency, leading to low exhaust emissions. The injection system’s outstanding flexibility also ensures a high degree of freedom in terms of application. There are up to five injections per combustion cycle in the cold-start and warm-up phase, which is so crucial for emissions. One of the key factors for in-engine particulate reduction is a reduction of the individual injection quantities.

The shift times in manual mode "M" and in sport mode "S" are similarly sporty in character to those of the SLS AMG GT super sports car. Quick and precise retardation of the ignition and suppressing injection under full load lead to even faster gear shifts in "M" and "S" modes, with a more thrilling sound. The transmission control fully utilises the benefits of the direct injection technology right up to the physical limits: the quicker engine response ensures that injection is suppressed with even more precision. The effect: the shift speed and an emotional sound experience are optimised.

Another special feature designed to enhance dynamic performance and driving pleasure is the so-called "Momentary M mode" – as seen in the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series super sports car.

In "C" mode (Controlled Efficiency), smooth transmission and engine characteristics support a fuel-efficient and comfort-oriented driving style. In addition, the ECO start/stop function is active in "C" mode.

As in all AMG high-performance automobiles, the interior of the GLA 45 AMG delights with its high-quality appeal, combined with sporty flair and exclusive equipment features. Sports seats in Artico man-made leather/Dinamica microfibre with red contrasting topstitching and red designo safety belts are just as much at home as the AMG DRIVE UNIT. The three-spoke nappa leather multifunction sports steering wheel with red contrasting topstitching, perforated leather in the grip area and steering-wheel shift paddles allows for perfect vehicle control. The AMG instrument cluster with two-tube design and central colour display, AMG main menu and RACETIMER is on hand to provide information to the driver. On opening the door, the driver is greeted by the AMG start-up screen. The trim of the instrument panel is of brushed aluminium and, in tandem with the brushed stainless-steel AMG front door sills, emphasises the high-grade, exclusive ambiance inside the GLA 45 AMG.