2026 Mercedes-AMG® CLA 35 vs AMG® CLA 45 S Coupe Comparison
The AMG® CLA 45 S produces 114 more horsepower than the AMG® CLA 35. This performance advantage applies specifically to the handcrafted engine variant. Find the perfect level of power by viewing our new inventory.
Choosing the right new Mercedes CLA Wisconsin drivers want comes down to how much track-ready agility you desire. Before focusing strictly on engine output, you can explore the standard styling elements and technology packages by visiting our complete Mercedes-Benz CLA Coupe research guide. Once you are familiar with the baseline luxury features, you can browse our current AMG® models to find the exact performance profile that fits your weekend drives.
Engine Architecture and Power Output
The primary distinction between these two models lies in their engine construction. The AMG® CLA 35 utilizes an AMG®-enhanced 2.0-liter inline-4 turbo with hybrid assist. This setup delivers an impressive 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. For the everyday driving enthusiast, this translates to incredibly sharp responsiveness when accelerating from stoplights or passing slower traffic on Interstate 43.
The AMG® CLA 45 S steps into an entirely different category of performance. It features a handcrafted AMG® 2.0-liter inline-4 turbo engine, built entirely by a single technician. This intricate engineering marvel generates 416 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This immense AMG® CLA 45 S performance translates into unrelenting, surging power, pushing the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.0 seconds, when properly equipped.
Drivetrain Dynamics
Both vehicles utilize advanced AMG®-tuned transmissions and all-wheel drive systems, but their exact configurations differ. The AMG® CLA 35 features AMG® Performance 4MATIC® all-wheel drive, providing phenomenal grip during harsh weather or aggressive cornering.
The AMG® CLA 45 S utilizes the AMG® Performance 4MATIC® system. This enhanced setup includes torque vectoring capabilities that can distribute power not just between the front and rear axles, but also variably between the left and right rear wheels. This allows the vehicle to carve through corners with absolute precision, making it an ideal choice for weekend track days. You can verify these drivetrain specifications via the official Mercedes-Benz model portal.
Side-by-Side Specifications
| Specification |
AMG® CLA 35 Coupe |
AMG® CLA 45 S Coupe |
| Engine |
AMG®-enhanced 2.0-liter turbo |
Handcrafted AMG® 2.0-liter turbo |
| Horsepower (when properly equipped) |
302 hp |
416 hp |
| 0 to 60 mph (when properly equipped) |
4.8 seconds |
4.0 seconds |
| Drivetrain |
AMG® Performance 4MATIC® |
AMG® Performance 4MATIC® |
| Estimated Fuel Economy |
22 City / 29 Highway MPG |
20 City / 28 Highway MPG |
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