Mercedes-AMG gives its CLA 45 the practical treatment

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the practical Shooting Brake variant of its high-performance CLA 45.

Following on the reveal of the A 45 and CLA 45 a few weeks ago, the new CLA 45 Shooting Brake uses the same powerful 2.0-litre petrol engine as those two cars. In standard form it kicks out an impressive 382bhp, but upgrading this to the ‘S’ model increases the output to 415bhp. An eight-speed dual-clutch transmission delivers this burst of power to the front wheels.

The sprint to 60mph comes around in just 3.8 seconds in the S model, which is set to be the only version offered in the UK. It offers an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph, with an optional package increasing the limiter to 167mph.

Further performance features include a special drift mode which ensures that, despite the CLA 45 coming with all-wheel-drive, plenty of fun can still be had behind the wheel.

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As with the other ‘45’ models, the Shooting Brake gains AMG styling to separate it from the standard car. A revised grille, wider front wings and flared wheel arches are the ‘AMG’ giveaways. With the ‘45’ sitting above the ‘35’ model in Mercedes-AMG’s range, the more aggressive styling reflects this, too.

As for practicality, the Shooting Brake offers a 505-litre boot, and also a much wider boot opening than before – ideal for an estate car. The interior remains focused around the German firm’s MBUX infotainment system, with two touchscreens joining to create one futuristic-looking dashboard.

Full pricing and specs will be announced later in the year, but expect prices to start from around £55,000.