Car Guy Magazine Car Guy Magazine Issue 1214 | Page 45

tion.The strengths of the dual-clutch transmission include
spontaneous gear shifts without loss of tractive power, a
tailor-made control strategy based on the AMG SPEEDSHIFT functions, extremely smooth gear shifts, and a high
level of efficiency. The shift times in the manual mode “M”
and the sport mode “S” are extremely sporty.
Quick and precise retardation of the ignition interruptions 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. This results in a highly fascinating shift speed and an emotional
sound experience.
In “C” mode (Controlled Efficiency), smooth transmission and engine characteristics support a fuel-efficient
and comfort-oriented driving style. In addition, in “C”
mode the ECO start/stop function is active. Another special feature designed to enhance dynamic performance
and driving enjoyment is the so-called “Momentary M
mode” – as seen in the new Mercedes-AMG GT sports car.
AMG Performance 4MATIC – this highly sophisticated
variant of the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides the
best possible mix of dynamism, traction and efficiency in
any driving situation. This is made possible by fully variable distribution of drive torque, ranging from full frontwheel drive to a 50:50 split.
A two-part propeller shaft transfers the power from
the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine to the rear
axle. In the interests of favourable weight distribution, an
electrohydraulically controlled multiple-disc clutch is integrated with the rear axle differential. The multiple-disc
clutch control detects slip at the front axle. A hydraulic
pump instantaneously presses the discs together and
channels the engine torque to the rear wheels as necessary. All this takes place without the driver noticing.
Power distribution is fully variable: during normal
driving, the CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake uses front-wheel
drive for optimal efficiency. Depending on driving conditions and driver input, the variable all-wheel-drive system
splits the torque between the front and rear wheels up to
a ratio of 50:50.
The 3-stage ESP® program offers a choice of three
customised driving modes: “ESP ON”, “SPORT Handling
Mode” and “ESP OFF” can be activated at the push of a
button.
Like the other AMG high-performance compact cars,
the CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake also comes equipped

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