For the first time in the company's history extending back over more than 45 years, Mercedes-Benz's performance brand is offering a fascinating high performance vehicle in the compact class - the A 45 AMG.

With a maximum output of 360bhp and up to 450Nm of torque, the A 45 AMG's 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine is the most powerful series production four-cylinder engine in the world. At the same time, the engine also boasts supreme fuel efficiency and complies with the EU6 emissions standard.

These credentials indicate that a further high performing member of the BlueDIRECT family is now taking to the road.The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive onboard the A 45 AMG sets new standards in the car's segment.

"The A 45 AMG will enable Mercedes-AMG to appeal to new customers and tap new markets," observed Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

"With the new A 45 AMG we have well and truly achieved our aim of developing the most dynamic, powerful and efficient four-cylinder series production car," commented Tobias Moers, Head of Overall Vehicle Development and Board Member of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.