2023 Mercedes-AMG A45 S Review: The Ultimate All-Wheel-Drive Hot Hatch

Published February 2026
2023 Mercedes-AMG A45 S Review: The Ultimate All-Wheel-Drive Hot Hatch
2023 Mercedes-AMG A45 S Review: The Ultimate All-Wheel-Drive Hot Hatch Close
Overall Rating
9.1/10
Exterior Design
9/10
Interior & Comfort
9/10
Performance & Driving Experience
9.9/10
Technology & Safety
9.2/10
Ownership & Practicality
8.6/10
Cost and Value for Money
9.1/10

Maximum Performance in a Practical Everyday Package

The Mercedes-Benz AMG A45 S is widely regarded as one of the most extreme hot hatches ever produced. With supercar-rivaling acceleration, advanced all-wheel-drive technology, and a premium interior, the A45 S redefines what a compact performance car can deliver. For Australian buyers seeking maximum performance in a practical, everyday package, the AMG A45 S sits at the very top of its segment.
2023 Mercedes-AMG A45 S Review: The Ultimate All-Wheel-Drive Hot Hatch
2023 Mercedes-AMG A45 S Review: The Ultimate All-Wheel-Drive Hot Hatch Close

Aggressive, Compact and Purpose-Built

Exterior Design:

9/10

The Mercedes-Benz AMG A45 S leaves no doubt about its intent. It looks muscular, wide, and unapologetically performance-focused from every angle.

Exterior highlights include:

Panamericana AMG grille

Wide body stance with flared guards

Large alloy wheels and performance brakes

Quad exhaust outlets and aerodynamic detailing

It’s a hot hatch that looks as fast as it feels

2023 Mercedes-AMG A45 S Review: The Ultimate All-Wheel-Drive Hot Hatch
2023 Mercedes-AMG A45 S Review: The Ultimate All-Wheel-Drive Hot Hatch Close

Motorsport Energy with Premium Finish

Interior & Comfort:

9/10

Inside, the A45 S delivers one of the most advanced and visually impressive cabins in the segment. Everything feels driver-focused and purposeful.

Interior highlights include:

  • AMG performance seats with excellent lateral support

  • Dual widescreen digital displays

  • Premium materials and AMG detailing

  • Supportive driving position with excellent visibility

Despite its aggressive nature, the cabin remains refined enough for daily use.

Benchmark-Setting Pace

Performance & Driving Experience:

9.9/10

The heart of the AMG A45 S is its hand-built turbocharged four-cylinder engine — one of the most powerful production four-cylinders ever made.

On Australian roads, it delivers:

  • Explosive acceleration from a standstill

  • Exceptional traction in all conditions

  • Razor-sharp throttle response

  • Advanced torque-vectoring all-wheel drive

Few cars offer this level of performance in such a compact package.

Performance-Focused Intelligence

Technology & Safety:

9.2/10

Mercedes-AMG equips the A45 S with advanced technology that enhances both safety and driving engagement.

Key features include:

  • Comprehensive driver assistance systems

  • AMG-specific drive modes and displays

  • High-resolution infotainment with smartphone integration

  • Performance telemetry and configurable settings

Technology is used to amplify performance rather than dilute it.

Extreme Performance, Everyday Usability

Ownership & Practicality:

8.6/10

Despite its performance credentials, the A45 S remains a practical hatchback with usable rear seats and a functional boot.

Ownership highlights:

Strong desirability in the performance market

Broad appeal among enthusiasts and prestige buyers

Compact size suited to urban environments

High-performance vehicles like the A45 S remain highly sought after, making them attractive for owners who may later consider selling through a trusted prestige specialist such as MCT Motorsport.

Supercar Performance in a Hot Hatch

Cost & Value for Money:

9.1/10

While positioned at the premium end of the hot hatch market, the AMG A45 S delivers performance that rivals vehicles far beyond its price bracket.

Why it represents excellent value:

  • One of the fastest accelerating cars in its class

  • Advanced AMG engineering and technology

  • Everyday usability with extreme performance

For buyers chasing uncompromising performance, the A45 S delivers exceptional value.

Our Verdict

Overall Rating 9.1/10

The 2023 Mercedes-AMG A45 S is not just a hot hatch — it’s a technological showcase and a performance benchmark. With blistering acceleration, advanced all-wheel-drive grip, and a premium interior, it delivers an ownership experience that feels genuinely special.

For Australian buyers who want maximum performance without stepping into a full-size sports car, the AMG A45 S remains one of the most exciting options on the market.

If you’re considering a Mercedes-AMG A45 S or want to explore our current stock, click here, or speak with the team to secure one of the most capable performance hatchbacks available today.

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