Mercedes-AMG A35 4MATIC, New and Improved

AMG might still be considered relatively new to the hot hatch world, but the new A35 model reveals new found maturity in the latest performance A-Class AMG's entry to the hot hatch world with the explosive A45 was no halfhearted attempt. For a brand associated with big, V8-powered Mercedes-derived hot rods this was a huge departure but the boys from Affalterbach attacked the problem the only way they know how: horsepower and handling to leave the opposition reeling. Mercedes-AMG A35 4MATIC, New and Improved.

We're now an A-Class generation on from that first foray and, having blasted its own distinctive niche in a competitive market, this time round AMG is taking a more structured approach. We're promised an even more extreme successor to the A45 in due course but, to begin with, we have this, the A35. Much as the rest of the range has its two-tier structure of sixcylinder 43 and 53 AMG Performance models bridging the gap to the full-blown V8-powered monsters, this new model is intended fit between 'civilian A-Classes and the eventual full-fat AMG flagship.

Which isn't to say it's been watered down. With a 302bhp version of the two-litre M260 turbocharged four-cylinder from the A250 it's got a significant Sibhp power advantage and is on terms with class benchmarks like the Golf Rand related Audi S3. Not so long ago this kind of power in an all-wheel drive four-or five-door car was the preserve of Japanese rally reps bristling with bonnet scoops and crazy aero; that you can now enjoy the same behind a respectable prestige badge is a measure of how far things have come in recent years, though the option of an aero package remains for those who aren't ready to grow up entirely.

Further reassurance this is the real deal comes in the knowledge AMG wouldn't put its name to the car if it was simply a power upgrade. So the engine gets a revised turbo installation, new intercooler and revised mapping and there's extensive reinforcement underneath, including an aluminium 'shear panel' under the engine, rigidly mounted rear subframe, special steering knuckles and a stiffer uniball mounting on the front axle arms. The latter is inspired by a similar set-up developed for the GT R, proof trickle-down technology really does come from the very top of the AMG range. The aim of all this extra engineering is to give a solid platform for the engine, steering and suspension to work from. And it's more than delivered.

A Step Up

The next gen all-wheel drive system is a lot more sophisticated than that in the A45, electromechanical clutches rather than the hydraulic ones of before drawing information from a wider range of sensors and able to proactively divert drive torque to the rear wheels without having to wait for the front ones to slip first. There was little to complain about in the A45's responses but, where the old car used an aggressive suspension set up to tip it into the corners, the A35 takes a more mature and homogenous approach to handling.

Rather than drive around initial understeer with a lift or trailed brake in the traditional hot hatch style, here you find you can drive the A35 more smoothly using the throttle and all-wheel drive to balance the car through the turn without even waking the ESP. It'll do it on any surface but it's most welcome - and noticeable-on a wet and slippery road, your confidence growing to the point you can get on the power as early as you might in the dry.

The biggest revelation is in the ride though. Where the A45 adopted an unapologetically form set up the new A35 rides with a new level of maturity, even on the standard passive dampers. Rather than attempt to batter the road into submission like the old car the new one takes a more cooperative approach, flowing with the undulations and encouraging a fast-and-smooth style rather than the pants on fire approach of before. While there wasn't a car available to drive with the optional adaptive set up the AMG expert joining us on the event assured us they make an even more dramatic impact.

As such the new A35 combines the maturity and premium bragging rights over cars like the Golf R while being able to match them blow for blow when the road or conditions get a bit tasty. It's perhaps a little less raucous than the A45 as a result. And, if there is a criticism, it's that the improved composure and more sophisticated powertrain rather highlight the power deficit over the A45. Whereas the old car felt - enjoyably - like it was just slightly over-engined for its own good this one clearly has more to give.

But that's fine, because in due course it will do. As well as being a superb hot hatch in its own right, and offering improved performance at a more reasonable price point, the new A35 also gives AMG licence to make the A45's successor even more extreme. Meaning everyone's a winner.

Mercedes-AMG A35 4MATIC (W177)

ENGINE M260 1,991cc 4-cyl

POWER 302bhp5.800rpm 

TORQUE 295lb ft3,000-4,000rpm 

TRANSMISSION 7-speed dual-clutch, AWD

0-62 MPH 4.7sec TOP 

SPEED 155mph 

FUEL CONSUMPTION 38.7mpg

CO2 EMISSIONS 167g/km 

All figures from Mercedes-Benz.

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