Launched: 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S 4Matic+ – RM539,888

Debuting at the Mercedes-Benz World today is the new 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S 4Matic+.

Besides the refreshed 2024MY Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4Matic and enigmatic Mercedes-AMG C63 S E-Performance, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) also welcomes the arrival of the new 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S 4Matic+.

This follows the initial launch of the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 4Matic model earlier this year, which was also being facelifted alongside its non-AMG-badged siblings.

Debuted at the ongoing Mercedes-Benz World event today, this souped-up SUV crossover is essentially the peppier version of the GLA 35 4Matic SUV launched earlier this year. Under its hood lies a familiar 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbocharged M139 mill borrowed from the A45 S hot hatch. Rated at 416 HP and 500 NM, the GLA 45 S can accelerate from 0-100 KM/H in just 4.3 seconds, en route to its limited 250 KM/H V-Max.

Mated to this four-pot mill is an eight-speed AMG Speedshift DCT gearbox, which helps to send the power to all four wheels via Merc’s proprietary 4Matic+ fully variable all-wheel drive (AWD) system that features AMG Torque Control.

For the recent 2024 facelift update, the GLA 45 S gained some minor exterior design updates. This includes the new front apron design that features AMG’s Affalterbach badge on the bonnet, a new lighting signature for its LED matrix headlights, extended wheel arches finished in matching body colour, as well as new 21-inch AMG light alloy wheels.

Several parts of the car have also been draped in a gloss black finish, including the side mirror caps, the roof-mounted rear wing, the rear diffuser, the quad AMG tailpipes, and many more.

The facelift treatment continues on-board the new GLA 45 S crossover, featuring some minor design and tech equipment upgrades. For starters, customers can now get the GLA 45 S with sporty AMG performance seats over the standard sports seats, with the former wrapped in plush Artico man-made leather and Microcut microfiber upholstery.

Other new bits of equipment primed here include the new AMG Performance steering wheel, the latest MBUX infotainment suite that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, several new USB charging ports, and many more.

Unlike the locally assembled (CKD) GLA 35 4Matic, the all-new 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S 4Matic+ is fully imported (CBU) from Germany and is now available for purchase at RM539,888 sans insurance. For said price, you’ll get the standard 4-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty provided by MBM.