Mercedes-AMG are working on the new generation of pocket rocket in the form of the AMG A45 S 4MATIC+ and I joined them on a frozen lake in Sweden to get a feel for what it is going to offer! The new 4WD system offers 'Drift Mode' and as we discover on the snow and ice; it's really rather impressive.

Joining the AMG Driving Academy at Arjeplog, we can learn a few details about the new car and speculate that this will be the 'S' version as has become the norm in the Mercedes naming structure. In particular though it's an opportunity to focus on the 4MATIC+ system which offers a 'Drift Mode' as first seen on the E63 S but in a new style given the setup. In this case it uses an electro-mechanical central differential on the rear axle with dual clutches to distribute power as required for both performance and fun.

Although no details on the numbers are confirmed, a leak from German insurer, HUK Coburg suggested 421PS for the A45 S and 387PS in the regular A45. Other differences between the two will largely be surrounding visual elements, but as we see it here with the full aero package including a more aggressive front end as seen on the A35, the Panamericana front grille, rear wing and a diffuser housing the 4 exhaust tips.

After a quick introduction to the car, I join Tim from AMG Driving Dynamics in the car for some experiences of the different driving modes including the oh-so-fun Drift Mode as the car demonstrates the way in which it can pull donuts and slides.

Thanks for watching, Tim

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