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Mercedes-AMG CLA35: AMG's new baby sedan revealed

The AMG CLA35 will sit below the CLA45, which is yet to be revealed.

Not long after the debut of the AMG A35 sedan, Mercedes-AMG has revealed another new entry-level model in the form of the four-door coupe CLA35. 

Using the same 225kW/400Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine as the A35 sedan and hatchback, the CLA35 hits 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds and is electronically limited to 250km/h. 

Like other A-Class and CLA models, the CLA35 uses a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with launch control.

The interior features the brand's MBUX multimedia system. The interior features the brand's MBUX multimedia system.

As with the A35, the CLA35 features the company’s '4Matic' all-wheel drive system, which “combines the best possible traction with lots of driving fun.” 

It offers as much as a 50:50 split of power front to rear, while the torque distribution is infinitely variable across each axle. 

As with the A35, five driving modes are included that change the character of the car through the stability program, throttle response, suspension stiffness, transmission mapping and steering weight. 

Slippery, comfort, sport, sport+ and individual modes are available - the last allows drivers to choose their own settings.

The steering rack has also been AMG-enhanced, with a special rack for sportier steering feedback. New four-piston calipers and 350mm front/330mm rear brake discs are also fitted for enhanced braking ability. 

The exhaust system features an automatically controlled exhaust flap, which makes the car’s noise louder or softer depending on the driving mode selected.

The rear end features dual exhaust pipes. The rear end features dual exhaust pipes.

Based on the A35, the CLA35 is “even bolder with its iconic design”, according to Mercedes-Benz. Based on the swoopy new CLA, the design of the CLA35 is more aggressive than the A35 sedan, with larger air intakes at the front, more stylised side skirts and large dual tailpipes with a lip spoiler. 

The interior of the CLA35 follows the same path as the A35, with a number of sporty details including AMG sports seats, 64-colour LED ambient lighting and red piping on the seats and red rings on the ventilation nozzles further enhancing the racy vibe in the cabin.

Standard equipment is Mercedes’ 'MBUX' multimedia system, which replaces the previous system and incorporates two screens under one large window. 

MBUX features a more personalised user experience with a ‘hey Mercedes’ voice command. In the CLA35, it also features a 360-degree parking camera, and a customisable digital instrument cluster with three AMG display styles.

The 2.0-litre engine produces 225kW of power. The 2.0-litre engine produces 225kW of power.

Confirmed for Australian release in the fourth quarter of 2019, Mercedes-AMG is confident in the 35's local sales potential.

According to spokesperson Ryan Lewis, Mercedes-Benz Australia is "confident the CLA35 will be met with a warm reception."

"This is not only due to the strength of the AMG brand in this segment but also because the second-generation CLA has grown in size and brings a raft of new technology," he said.

Would you choose a Mercedes-AMG CLA35 over an AMG A35 sedan or even an AMG C43? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.