Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG Boasts Market's Most Powerful Four-Cylinder

TIVERTON, R.I., April 1, 2013 — Following the debut of its CLA45 AMG at the New York International Auto Show last week, Mercedes-Benz is out to prove that there are not just good, but great things that come in small packages. A high-performance version of the upcoming CLA-Class compact sedan, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG will feature what the automaker claims to be the most powerful production four-cylinder engine, a turbocharged 2.0-liter unit that yields 355 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque.

To help put all that power to the ground, the CLA45 AMG will come standard with an AMG-tuned all-wheel-drive system when it arrives at Mercedes-Benz dealerships in November. Featuring a variety of technical drivetrain enhancements and a seven-speed dual-clutch AMG sports transmission, the CLA45 AMG is estimated to sprint from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Meanwhile, the model reflects its inner aggression on its front fascia with an AMG twin-blade grille in matte titanium gray, as well as HID headlights.

"While Mercedes-Benz's presence in the U.S. compact luxury car market is in its infancy, it's already clear that the CLA-Class will set a new standard in the segment," said Will Dame, general manager of Viti, Inc., a Rhode Island Mercedes-Benz dealer. "Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class buyers will get the same performance, dynamic ride, luxury amenities and sophisticated style as the rest of the Mercedes-Benz lineup."

Sharing styling cues with the larger Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class dons both convex and concave design lines that combine with the frameless doors to create a swooping sense of motion. Mercedes-Benz claims that the car's sleek design also allows it to achieve a 0.23 drag coefficient, a record for production vehicles. When standard CLA-Class models go on sale in September, drivers will be able to stay connected with Bluetooth compatibility and mbrace2 smartphone integration through a 5.8-inch display.

Like the CLA-Class, the CLS-Class will receive a boost from AMG for the 2014 model year, with the CLS63 AMG increasing output in its 5.5-liter twin turbocharged V8 engine from 518 horsepower to 550 horsepower. The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG will also receive a new "S" model that will up the ante to 575 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque, and all models will now come standard with all-wheel drive.

"It is amazing that Mercedes-Benz is able to find new ways to increase power year after year without sacrificing handling or ride in the process," Dame added. "When they go on sale later this year, the new AMG models of the CLA- and CLS-Class are going to give buyers levels of performance that have never before been available in their respective segments."

About Viti, Inc.:
Winner of a 2011 Mercedes-Benz Best of the Best Dealer Recognition Award, Viti, Inc. has served New England Mercedes-Benz owners for more than 40 years, specializing in new and used Mercedes- Benz sales, service and parts. Whether you're looking for a new Mercedes-Benz C-Class or a pre-owned GLK-Class SUV, Viti's friendly and knowledgeable sales staff will ensure that you get the right vehicle without the hassle. Plus, with 150 loaner cars and 50 drivers at their disposal, Viti offers all of their customers free pick-up, delivery and loaners during servicing. Check out their full inventory online at www.viti.com, visit them in person at 975 Fish Road in Tiverton, or contact them by phone at 866-980-6224. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/VitiMercedesBenz.