Brabus adds subtle style and not-so-subtle power to the Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG

By Stephen Edelstein March 19, 2014

Mercedes-Benz tuner Brabus has made a point of getting its hands on every model with a three-pointed star, from the apocalyptic G63 AMG 6×6 to the chic CLA-Class.

Mercedes’ compact “four-door coupe” has wowed and perplexed traditional customers with both its styling and A-Class hatchback roots. While it’s proven to be a competent car, that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for improvement.

The car pictured here is Brabus’ take on the top-of-the-line CLA45 AMG. Already augmented with a body kit from the factory, this upscale pocket rocket already packs plenty of visual punch, which may be why Brabus kept its changes on the subtle side.

The red-banded black wheels (other designs are available) make quite an impressive, and contrast nicely with the car’s silver exterior. Matching carbon fiber mirror caps complete the look.

Other notable changes include rear deckled and roof spoilers, while the interior features plenty of red trim to match the exterior.

Brabus also offers a software upgrade for the CLA45, which boosts the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine’s output from 355 horsepower to 394. The extra power lowers the Brabus CLA45’s 0 to 60 mph time from 4.4 seconds to 4.2.

While not as wild as some of Brabus’ other Benzes, the modified CLA45 AMG should offer owners a way to stand out, not that they need it.

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Stephen Edelstein

Contributing Editor

Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…

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