The wraps have come off a facelifted version of the Mercedes-AMG GLA45 S 4Matic+ compact performance SUV, which gains both “visual and technical” updates…

This is the subtly facelifted Mercedes-AMG GLA45 S 4Matic+, which the German brand’s Affalterbach-based performance division says has gained both “visual and technical” upgrades.

As a reminder, the H247-generation GLA was revealed back in 2019 (with the 45-badged variant following in early 2020), before receiving a mid-cycle update in the opening quarter of 2023. Now it’s the turn of the high-performance derivative…

So, what’s new? Well, spotting the changes takes an astute eye, with perhaps the most obvious updates being the new lighting signatures, fore and aft. In addition, you may notice the redesigned front apron.

Moreover, the GLA45 S derivative’s wheel-arch extensions are now painted in the colour of the body – rather than black – while 20-inch alloys wheels framing red brake callipers are standard. Round back, you’ll again find a pair of twin tailpipes and a prominent rear roof spoiler.

New light-alloy wheel designs include 19-inch 10-spoke rims and a pair of 20-inch wheels, each in a 5-twin-spoke design. Furthermore, the wheel catalogue again includes 21-inch multi-spoke or cross-spoke items.

What about the cabin? Well, the apex version of the 2nd-gen GLA upgrades to the latest generation of the AMG Performance steering wheel, while also gaining a new AMG-specific MBUX infotainment-system screen design, replete with an extended range of functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as are a higher USB charging output and an additional USB-C port.

Mercedes-Benz has also rolled out new upholstery covers and colour options for the standard sports seats or for the optional AMG Performance pews. In addition, the list of cabin options is expanded with the addition of open-pore lime wood (in brown) for the trim elements.

Meanwhile, the powertrain is unchanged, which means the Mercedes-AMG GLA45 S 4Matic+ still offers a heady 310 kW and 500 Nm from its turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine. Drive is again delivered to all 4 corners via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, with the obligatory 0-100 kph sprint taking a claimed 4.3 seconds and top speed capped at 270 kph.

Though Mercedes-Benz South Africa has yet to make any announcements on the expected arrival date of the facelifted GLA45 S, we’d say a local launch in early 2024 seems very likely. Stay tuned for pricing information, as it becomes available…

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