Car Guy Magazine Car Guy Magazine Issue 1214 | Page 46

with elaborate axle technology. The AMG axles feature independent steering knuckles at the front together with
specially configured elastokinematics. All axle bearings
have a more rigid design compared to the standard production version. These measures result in more spontaneous and direct turn-in and handling characteristics as
well as greater lateral acceleration capabilities. The AMG
chassis with its specially tuned spring/damper elements
and more powerfully proportioned anti-roll bars forms
the basis for superb lateral dynamics and reduces body
roll when cornering at speed.
The AMG Sport speed-sensitive steering gives the
driver extremely precise control over the vehicle. The
purpose-designed high-performance braking system,
meanwhile, with vented and cross-drilled brake discs all
round provides for dependable, instantaneous deceleration.
The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake makes its mark in
style with a sporty and progressive design. Highlights
when viewed from the front include the radiator grille
with AMG lettering and twin louvre in matt titanium grey,
along with the brand’s trademark front apron featuring a
splitter in a striking colour finish. The large air intakes on
the outside are framed by prominent black surrounds.
Along the vehicle’s flanks, side sill panels with inserts in
matt titanium grey and “TURBO AMG” badging on the
front wings produce an air of sporty superiority. Various
light-alloy wheels in 8 x 19-inch format with size 235/35
R 19 tyres are available as an alternative to the standard
5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted titanium grey
with a high-sheen finish and measuring 8 x 18 inches
with 235/40 R 18 tyres.
The elongated roof line that slopes down towards the
rear terminates in a powerful and athletic-looking tail end.
The roof spoiler with its special trailing edge is exclusive to
the range-topping AMG model. Measuring around three
centimetres in height, this Gurney flap, as it is known, reduces the lift that can occur at high speeds, thereby improving roadholding at the rear axle. The sports exhaust
system’s chromed twin tailpipes are integrated into the
black diffuser insert. Matt titanium grey trim and a rear
apron with simulated air outlet openings at the sides add
further visual highlights.
The sense of dynamism and exclusivity so characteristic of Mercedes-AMG is also clearly apparent in the interior of the CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake. Classy touches