LEAKED: The new CLA 45 AMG revealed prior to NYIAS 2013 debut

The new Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG comes to complete the new compact portfolio of the Affalterbach tuner that kicked off with the new A 45 AMG premiering at Geneva Motor Show this month. Following the same recipe, the high-performance four-door coupe will be officially unveiled at the New York International Auto Show starting March, 29th, thus marking the introduction of the C 117 series onto the American market.

First official details and hi-res pics from Mercedes-AMG are set to come as early as tomorrow or next days, so prior to the automotive event. The CLA 45 AMG features a grumpier stance in comparison to its hatchback brother. The dominant signs of the front end are the sharpened headlights featuring LED technology, the twin-blade grille and the carbon fiber fins placed near the extraordinary looking air intakes. The chromed logos on the front wings highlight this car is equipped with AMG's brand new TURBO M133 powerplant. While the profile is practically identical to the standard-spec CLA, the rear end receives a pronounced aerodynamic lip on the trunk hood, a muscular diffuser and quad exhausts.

The sports ride gets enhanced by the 3-stage ESP® with ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist, which combines with the high-grade suspension and brake system to deliver an unparalleled level of dynamism. Performance characteristics are similar to the A 45 AMG. The Performance 4MATIC platform sends the maximum output of 360 hp and directs the impressive amount of torque of 450 Nm to the four wheels in a front-biased ratio of 67:33 with the help of the SPEEDSHIFT DCT-7 dual-clutch automatic transmission. Zero to 100 km/h takes a mere 4.6 seconds, while the top speed reaches the 250 km/h barrier (electronically governed).

Like the sports hatchback, the CLA 45 AMG too benefits from the extensive customization programme of the AMG Performance Studio, which offers unlimited choices for personalizing your dream car. Obviously, the EDITION 1 limited-run model will be available from the start of sales. Reports suggest that starting price for the new CLA 45 AMG should come below 50,000 dollars in USA and below 40,000 euros in Europe.

Stay tuned to find out the latest as new details and pictures are released!

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