Love the A45s. So aggressive. If it had the engine tone of the RS3 then it'd be perfect for me. Quality interior and media system. So much tech it's IMO worth every penny. Just for the hand built engine alone. Such a master piece.
@@CobraJeffa If you're spending £60k on a car, you must be able to afford the maintenance, even this A45s will require special servicing, detailing and gas. Hatchbacks are far too expensive for what they are, F90 M5, 17-onwards RS5, C63, E400, M4 all beat these hatches at the same price, it's bizzare.
Great video, small correction, the refreshed A35 (post 2023) also has the 8 speed gearbox which is carried over from the A45. I have just taken delivery of the newest A35. Love it.
@ The facelift A35 had a pretty major upgrade, more even than the 45. New: Pan America style grille, sculpted bonnet, latest infotainment with car play, Mild hybrid and 8 speed gearbox to name only a few. It also gets the latest AMG steering wheel and illuminated driving mode nobs which looks pretty cool. Probably the biggest improvement in my opinion is the adaptive suspension which has 3 modes. The older car has passive which was just way too stiff. I previously owned a pre facelift 35 for 2.5 years.
@@julianadams2206 I think the current offers for the A35 are pretty hard to beat. I got mine 6 months ago and monthly is £200 less than a new Golf R and I've no deposit. Ok, you're 30 horses and a trick rear diff down on the Golf, but it's a big chunk of change, not to mention the insurance on an R.
I have a 73 plate one and have to say its a superb car, performance is great and so is the handling it an experience every time you get behind the wheel, great review as well as always
Had an A45s sold it after 8 months very fast but left me feeling numb. My grandmother could drive it fast. Had several other cars since but just over a month ago I bought a fl5 civic type r. Can't stop driving it not as fast but it's a proper drivers car.
Of course it’s worth the money in the current climate. It’s an absolute weapon. I picked up a used one with 15k miles back in July and haven’t looked back. Anyone that hates on a car like this, quite simply, doesn’t like cars or can’t afford them. Or both.
If you take this over a C63s, you're high. Btw, you can also get a Giulia QV for a similar price. Again - saying you like cars then taking a 4 cyl A45 over a Giulia QV... you have some weird brand snobism, probably , otherwise I can't explain it
@szotakandrei c63s is a lot heavier and not a nimble fun to drive Hatchback like the a45s. The fuel costs are also ridiculous but it is reasonable on the a45s
Merc figures of 3.9 seconds are for 0-62mph (0-100kph), so the 3.7 seconds tested here, sound about right. Anyone launched theirs in the different modes and noticed different times ? I've only tried Sport + so far.
I remember when I first saw a yellow a35 it looked stunning especially the interior back then. Not soo much now but if I was in the market I would strongly look at it
Ive got a 20 plate 45s and its a great car. Mine runs a sports cat and been mapped so sounds alot better over stock and the car in the video. Currently running 520bhp and still handles the power well. Definitely prefer my style interior tho over the facelift.
@andyp8464 est performance supplied and fitted it. It's a down pipe straight off the turbo. Standard pipe has the cat and opf filter built into 1. The sports cat removes the opf part of it.
What? 93% of viewers do not subscribe? Why? Subscribe! Max's content is superb! Brilliant, relatable reviews on cars that are always interesting. Just a fantastic channel and content. Thank You, Max! Oh! The Merc.. AMG A Class 45.... Firstly massive Thank You to Daniel. Yes for this car spec is spot on. Personally, not a fan of Mercedes...too bling! This is the yellow colour seen so much is well too much! Golf R every day of the week for me. Or Clubsport. That said i know as Max pointed out, " night and day" yet an A 35 surely makes sense for a daily. Thanks again Max. Now hopefully subscribers numbers will increase! Richly deserved! 👍💪💯👌
@@keithronson2624 Hopefully he can get the facelift new model 35h with the better gearbox and electric boost. Far better than the older 35. Id like to see his opinion as he has a fair bit of seat time in the 45S now and had reviewed the older pre facelift 35.
Good video, i've been looking at these since the facelift. However, one thing you forgot to mention in the video is 2023 onwards facelift model has HUD (Heads Up Display) as standard on premium spec. - This wasn't available in any UK pre-facelift models or specs. However, it was an option in all other countries.
Recently punted a launch 8Y RS3 for a new facelift A45s. If you care about the driving experience over everything else, get the Merc. For me, someone who has owned both, it's not even a competition.
I wonder why Mercedes don't sell the standard A45 AMG (non S) version in the UK. It too has a massive power output and its price wouldn't be as eye watering as the A45S's price.
@@shay-jt8su Go and test drive one pal. Two completely different cars in their own right. M140i Is a weapon and so tuneable. But so is the 45s with just an ECU + intake system you can push 500bhp. But the 4matic + is a work of art for keeping you on the road
M2 would be more comparable. M140I is great, but everyday road handling you can’t touch 4WD. And when you compare this, there’s nothing BMW have like for like… maybe an M1 Xdrive for the future, who knows.
You can get a 45S for a lot less than 45 grand. 35k mile 69 plate non category car for 31k. 20 plate with 42k miles same price unless you are referring to the facelift cars?
Yeah saw one of these on the road and some chav was giving it some and my ninja 650 just destroyed it. Look on his face was like ‘I’ve wasted my money’ 😂😂
The EV sales they arent having and the resulting fines are the reason cars got so expensive in the past 5 years, essentially we are paying the politician imposed fines. Vote them out Reform Reform Reform
@@DrivenPlusone of the main criticisms of this car across most reviews is the interior build and material quality. It’s just very poor for the money, loads of rattles. Had a mate who had one and he hated it. Poor ride quality too
The whole Merc model line throughout are BEYOND EXPENSIVE in comparison to the rivals such as BMW and Audi not paying myself into a coma in order to any Merc over the same car in the form of BMW and Audi. Sorry Merc it's just not worth buying this brand. Four cylinders Mercs are now more expensive then rival six and eight cylinder cars. 🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬
One point I can't agree with is the build quality. I borrowed one for a day and everything you touch inside squeaks and creaks and flexes. The piano black finish everywhere also cheapens it which is a shame because I really like the design and styling inside but it's all a bit fur coat and no knickers for me. Awesome car though.
I was a huge merc fan.. but they lost the plot the last few years.. Merc and bmw are definitely ahead… 4 cylinder c63..🤣🤣 wtf.. And this overpriced a45….
Although I'm certainly not an Audi fan, I am a mechanic and I'm afraid you're wrong. There is no way a stock 4 pot 2 litre is outlasting a stock RS3 (of any year). The boost that thing is running to achieve that output means it's extremely stressed. No replacement for displacement at the end of the day. Also, in the scheme of AMG engines, the 2 lite ones are pretty poor. They went downhill after the W204.
@ the Audi quality is going down hill a brand new 2023 Audi rs3 with engine failure. The car was returned to Audi for inspection and metal partials were found in the oil. Told Audi to take their car back and get the money paid for it back.
I’m an M2 comp owner, test drove the A45s and loved it ❤
Great video as always. ❤
Thank you!
Love the A45s. So aggressive. If it had the engine tone of the RS3 then it'd be perfect for me. Quality interior and media system. So much tech it's IMO worth every penny. Just for the hand built engine alone. Such a master piece.
In all honesty, for that money, I’d rather get an M5C. So much better. But great video!
Thanks! M5C is in a different category 👌
Buying a car is one thing, but driving it and maintenance is another thing. ( insurance, road tax, gas etc)
@@CobraJeffa If you're spending £60k on a car, you must be able to afford the maintenance, even this A45s will require special servicing, detailing and gas. Hatchbacks are far too expensive for what they are, F90 M5, 17-onwards RS5, C63, E400, M4 all beat these hatches at the same price, it's bizzare.
In may last year i bought a 2014 SL500 in hyacinth red cream leather £29.5k only 22k miles. I'm happy I made that choice.
Nice! That’s a lot of car for the money!
@DrivenPlus indeed. I considered an SLK55 of similar age and mileage at almost same price!
Nice, but not as much car for the money
Great video, small correction, the refreshed A35 (post 2023) also has the 8 speed gearbox which is carried over from the A45. I have just taken delivery of the newest A35. Love it.
Thanks for the info. I was referring to the pre-facelift A35, didn’t know the new ones had the 8 speed - that’s nice!
@
The facelift A35 had a pretty major upgrade, more even than the 45.
New: Pan America style grille, sculpted bonnet, latest infotainment with car play, Mild hybrid and 8 speed gearbox to name only a few. It also gets the latest AMG steering wheel and illuminated driving mode nobs which looks pretty cool.
Probably the biggest improvement in my opinion is the adaptive suspension which has 3 modes. The older car has passive which was just way too stiff. I previously owned a pre facelift 35 for 2.5 years.
Wow… why would you buy the A45s then…?
@@julianadams2206 I think the current offers for the A35 are pretty hard to beat. I got mine 6 months ago and monthly is £200 less than a new Golf R and I've no deposit.
Ok, you're 30 horses and a trick rear diff down on the Golf, but it's a big chunk of change, not to mention the insurance on an R.
@@DrivenPlusThe engine and the 4matic+ drivetrain. and it's in a different league of car !
I have a 73 plate one and have to say its a superb car, performance is great and so is the handling it an experience every time you get behind the wheel, great review as well as always
Had an A45s sold it after 8 months very fast but left me feeling numb. My grandmother could drive it fast. Had several other cars since but just over a month ago I bought a fl5 civic type r. Can't stop driving it not as fast but it's a proper drivers car.
Of course it’s worth the money in the current climate. It’s an absolute weapon. I picked up a used one with 15k miles back in July and haven’t looked back. Anyone that hates on a car like this, quite simply, doesn’t like cars or can’t afford them. Or both.
Or has some common sense 😂
@@404040h Come on mate, elaborate. That’s throw away comment that needs a bit of input why you come to that conclusion.
@@Buck3366 Please don't feed the trolls.
If you take this over a C63s, you're high. Btw, you can also get a Giulia QV for a similar price. Again - saying you like cars then taking a 4 cyl A45 over a Giulia QV... you have some weird brand snobism, probably , otherwise I can't explain it
@szotakandrei c63s is a lot heavier and not a nimble fun to drive Hatchback like the a45s. The fuel costs are also ridiculous but it is reasonable on the a45s
You have a new subscriber from Canada today. Take off eh!!!!!!!!!
Thank you! Hello from Wales 🏴
Been subscribed for a bit now Good content and not shouty .
Thanks Jason 😎🙏🏼 appreciate it and more to come
Subscribed all the way from South Africa
Thank you! Hello from Wales 🏴
Great review of a great car 👍 My order of one in magno grey is going in very soon
Love these 👌
Me too!
Merc figures of 3.9 seconds are for 0-62mph (0-100kph), so the 3.7 seconds tested here, sound about right.
Anyone launched theirs in the different modes and noticed different times ? I've only tried Sport + so far.
Wow this car rocks man. Pity it's too small for me. I had a 2017 gla 45 and it was a beast and a half, this thing is on a different level.
I remember when I first saw a yellow a35 it looked stunning especially the interior back then. Not soo much now but if I was in the market I would strongly look at it
Amazed any of these sell tbh would be good to know what swayed owners
Pass. Quick, looks good in yellow, but there's no escaping the fact it's an overboosted 2 litre 4 pot that sounds like a Dyson.
Keep up the good work.
Thanks Neil 👍
TT rs 8s or a rs3 8v face lift would be my choice over this.
@Tagomago12 personally, I'd opt for a BMW but your suggestions are certainly better than the Merc
How's the comfort in the uk with the performance seats? This is whats holding me back from placing an order whilst I wait to test drive
Ive got a 20 plate 45s and its a great car. Mine runs a sports cat and been mapped so sounds alot better over stock and the car in the video. Currently running 520bhp and still handles the power well. Definitely prefer my style interior tho over the facelift.
Who did you do your cats from? Assume it was a long tube headers replacement?
@andyp8464 est performance supplied and fitted it. It's a down pipe straight off the turbo. Standard pipe has the cat and opf filter built into 1. The sports cat removes the opf part of it.
@@johngledhill7441 which probably opens the sound up and gives it a bit more power too hopefully
Did you go straight to stage 2 or did you have just the est remap before , just asking because I am considering it myself
What? 93% of viewers do not subscribe? Why? Subscribe! Max's content is superb! Brilliant, relatable reviews on cars that are always interesting. Just a fantastic channel and content. Thank You, Max!
Oh! The Merc.. AMG A Class 45.... Firstly massive Thank You to Daniel.
Yes for this car spec is spot on. Personally, not a fan of Mercedes...too bling! This is the yellow colour seen so much is well too much!
Golf R every day of the week for me. Or Clubsport. That said i know as Max pointed out, " night and day" yet an A 35 surely makes sense for a daily.
Thanks again Max. Now hopefully subscribers numbers will increase! Richly deserved! 👍💪💯👌
@@keithronson2624 Hopefully he can get the facelift new model 35h with the better gearbox and electric boost. Far better than the older 35. Id like to see his opinion as he has a fair bit of seat time in the 45S now and had reviewed the older pre facelift 35.
They're probably not signed in, or don't even have accounts.
Hi Keith, thank you for the kind words! I appreciate your support and always commenting 🙌
It would be good to get behind the wheel of one too
Good video, i've been looking at these since the facelift. However, one thing you forgot to mention in the video is 2023 onwards facelift model has HUD (Heads Up Display) as standard on premium spec. - This wasn't available in any UK pre-facelift models or specs. However, it was an option in all other countries.
That's incorrect, I am afraid. I have a 69 plate UK spec A35 Premium Plus and that has the head up display.
Overpriced
Saved £10k and bought an F82 Comp instead. No regrets. Just don’t like the look of these.
Good choice.
Thanks. I think so.
Recently punted a launch 8Y RS3 for a new facelift A45s.
If you care about the driving experience over everything else, get the Merc. For me, someone who has owned both, it's not even a competition.
Lovely car, great video. Could you share details on the exhaust mods for this car? Sounds great.
Thanks! I believe it was a resonator delete and back box modification done at a garage
I wonder why Mercedes don't sell the standard A45 AMG (non S) version in the UK.
It too has a massive power output and its price wouldn't be as eye watering as the A45S's price.
I do wonder why too
Good car but the spoiler is so embarrassing. They make them look like an aftermarket boy racer car 😂
A demo M2 for the same coin? but awesome car indeed
No brainer regarding the M2
I’ve got an M140i. Would you upgrade to this?
That would be a downgrade keep the M140i and fit lsd
@@shay-jt8sum140i needs a lot more than an lsd to drive properly
@HondaEnjoyer12if you’re that bothered get a proper m car
@@shay-jt8su Go and test drive one pal. Two completely different cars in their own right. M140i Is a weapon and so tuneable. But so is the 45s with just an ECU + intake system you can push 500bhp. But the 4matic + is a work of art for keeping you on the road
M2 would be more comparable. M140I is great, but everyday road handling you can’t touch 4WD. And when you compare this, there’s nothing BMW have like for like… maybe an M1 Xdrive for the future, who knows.
Here in The USA you can pick up a clean low mileage gt amg for $50k
You can get a 45S for a lot less than 45 grand. 35k mile 69 plate non category car for 31k. 20 plate with 42k miles same price unless you are referring to the facelift cars?
Is he not on about new cars?
@@lukebennett.He says in the used car market.
Yeah don't know why he said 45 to 50 grand used market, there's loads for 30-35 grand on autotrader... big difference
None aeropack ones are those prices
@@AnnoyedGlobe-sf9yo Are you checking Autotrader before commenting? Obviously not . I’m looking at one now with it. 38k miles 20 reg. £31,000
Deffo worth the money
I think so too
Good looking car but these days Mercedes build quality is questionable, too many cheap feeling parts
Are they still putting Renault engines in the non-AMG variants?
Personally given I'm spending 50k give me the C63. Just more car to look at IMO 🤷♂️
M2 all day every day
Honestly, don’t know the last time anyone even mentioned Mercedes. It’s all about BMW now and then Audi.
And rightly so.
Unfortunately you are correct
BMW= BIG MONEY WASTED 💰
The new A35 has the same 8 speed gearbox as the A45S.
Unless my dashboard is lying to me.
it's not. The A35 facelift has had some huge improvements including gearbox. Looks so good now compared to the pre facelift
Thanks, I didn’t realise the facelift A35 had the 8 speed box
I had a test drive in one and it was full of creaks and rattles!
Sounds terrible...rather get an RS3 it has a soul.
Right 😂
Dare I saw it I think the rs3 sounds horrible standard
A soul that is run by 14 computers. All new cars are shit kind regards
Yeah any stock RS3 8V 2019 onwards along with any stock 8Y sound awful.😊
Yeah saw one of these on the road and some chav was giving it some and my ninja 650 just destroyed it. Look on his face was like ‘I’ve wasted my money’ 😂😂
My new A45s has Touch ID
The EV sales they arent having and the resulting fines are the reason cars got so expensive in the past 5 years, essentially we are paying the politician imposed fines.
Vote them out
Reform Reform Reform
Nice car, but WELL overpriced.
i could beat yer 0-60 in an mg4 xp and thats the economy car in the family hahaha
The interior on these is so cheap looking. The RS3 definitely feels much more premium.
Have you been in one?
@crocoman776 both. I'm not a fan boy of either.
I’d agree with you if we are talking previous generation A45 v RS3, but not this one
@@DrivenPlusone of the main criticisms of this car across most reviews is the interior build and material quality. It’s just very poor for the money, loads of rattles. Had a mate who had one and he hated it. Poor ride quality too
Ofcourse he hasnt 😂@crocoman776
Awful interior! The worst build quality I have ever encountered! It’s shockingly cheap and bad!
I actually found it to be built really well
Everyone said that that can't afford one I actually own one
Bro shut the fckup it has gorgeous interior and solid build,u just hating and can’t afford it anyway
Funny because Audi and BMW tried copying the interior lol
The whole Merc model line throughout are BEYOND EXPENSIVE in comparison to the rivals such as BMW and Audi not paying myself into a coma in order to any Merc over the same car in the form of BMW and Audi. Sorry Merc it's just not worth buying this brand. Four cylinders Mercs are now more expensive then rival six and eight cylinder cars. 🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬
One point I can't agree with is the build quality. I borrowed one for a day and everything you touch inside squeaks and creaks and flexes. The piano black finish everywhere also cheapens it which is a shame because I really like the design and styling inside but it's all a bit fur coat and no knickers for me. Awesome car though.
Its actually pretty cheap financed brand new with mercedes low interest rates.
I was a huge merc fan.. but they lost the plot the last few years..
Merc and bmw are definitely ahead…
4 cylinder c63..🤣🤣 wtf..
And this overpriced a45….
45 has been 2.0 ever since its inception. c63 is a big shame, but the way things are going you’ll be lucky to get a 1.5 soon.
I actually don’t mind the A45s, most other hot hatchbacks use a 2.0L engine anyway
that's a fake amg, m135 is a much better choice for money
how is it fake? It's has a hand built AMG engine the same as other AMG cars. Well worthy of the AMG badge
It’s not fake the engine is hand built
@@Howellsy1978while it is certainly hand built, it's a 2 litre 4 pot running massive bhp via huge boost. It won't last.
A hand built merc a45s engine over a rs 3 Audi generic engine all day everyday
Although I'm certainly not an Audi fan, I am a mechanic and I'm afraid you're wrong. There is no way a stock 4 pot 2 litre is outlasting a stock RS3 (of any year). The boost that thing is running to achieve that output means it's extremely stressed. No replacement for displacement at the end of the day.
Also, in the scheme of AMG engines, the 2 lite ones are pretty poor. They went downhill after the W204.
@ the Audi quality is going down hill a brand new 2023 Audi rs3 with engine failure. The car was returned to Audi for inspection and metal partials were found in the oil. Told Audi to take their car back and get the money paid for it back.