Mercedes-Benz Test Day 2019: from the A 35 to the AMG GT

As is customary, Mercedes-Benz invited the press from Galicia -where I come from- to discover, through a first drive, the novelties that have strengthened the brand over the past year. The Mercedes-AMG A 35, AMG GTC and GLE were the cars that passed through our hands this time, and we will talk about them in this article that concerns us today. If you are thinking of buying any of these models from the star brand, this test will surely be of interest to you. So, without further ado, join us.

The icy morning that covered Lalín -the location where this event takes place- greeted me with cold and rain. Nevertheless, the bad weather failed to dampen my excitement and eagerness to get behind the wheel of the models I mentioned a few lines above. Once I arrived at my destination, I could make out those who would be in charge of keeping you busy for most of the day. Two A 35s -one compact and one saloon- led the line of vehicles ready to win us over with their charms; but it was the imposing AMG GTC that stole all the glances.

Mercedes-AMG A 35 Saloon

But before getting to the main course, let me tell you about one of the models that has generated the most expectation among the brand’s enthusiasts: the Mercedes-AMG A 35. For the first time in the history of the German firm, the 35 designation is used for a sporty model that, at the same time, is the most “modest” of the AMGs.

Although the compact body was also present, I decided to opt for the Saloon, a variant that has strongly caught my attention since it was announced. Aesthetically, it is a fairly discreet car despite the power it hides; but this particular unit was equipped with the aerodynamic pack capable of adding a significant dose of spice through a ducktail spoiler, a more exuberant diffuser and quite appealing front canards.

The cabin has all the ingredients found in any standard A-Class except for the specific AMG steering wheel, flanked by two digital button panels that allow us to configure different parameters and the driving mode, a detail I find to be a real success on the part of the star brand. But then came the most anticipated moment, the moment to press the Start/Stop button and unleash the four-cylinder engine that powers the A 35.

Behind this sporty version of the German compact hides the same engine that lives in the A 250. But AMG’s engineers have subjected it to an intense tuning, through which the total output has risen to 306 CV and 400 Nm of torque. These figures allow it to accelerate from 0 to 100 in 4.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 250 km/h.

On paper it is fast, and on the asphalt I can assure you it is too. Its four-cylinder engine is explosive across practically the entire rev range, with the middle of the tachometer being where its strength is felt most. The steering is quick and precise, although one more point of feedback would be welcome. The suspension is firm, but its balanced setup means the A 35 neither rolls excessively nor is uncomfortable in daily driving. However, despite the good overall setup, it lacks a little more sensation at the controls, a common ailment of today’s sporty compacts.

Mercedes-Benz GLE

One of the most important renewals from Mercedes-Benz has been that of the GLE, one of its most successful models. With this new generation now on the market, we find not only a new design, but also a generous technological showcase that raises the star’s SUV substantially to a higher level.

The unit present in Galician lands was the GLE 450 4Matic. This designation hides an inline six-cylinder engine capable of producing 367 CV and 500 Nm of torque. However, we must also highlight the presence of a small electric motor capable of reducing CO2 emissions and fuel consumption, and which comes into action when the sailing mode is activated.

But what is truly remarkable about this new GLE is not its mild-hybrid system, a technology already common in today’s market, but its ride and its extraordinary off-road capability. On asphalt, the German SUV above all prioritises comfort, something it achieves thanks to superb sound insulation and a smooth, compliant engine; though beware, because when we demand more of it, it will show its true character with vehemence.

This overwhelming on-road behaviour is accentuated by a first-class interior that pairs with generous front seats. Space is still present in the second row, where passengers can adjust the backrest recline to their liking and the legroom which, in its most extended position, still leaves a generous boot for stowing objects.

But what happens when we go on an off-road excursion? Well, thanks to its air suspension -a key component in making the ride quality excellent- it is capable of overcoming practically any type of terrain, however adverse. One of the most striking functions is “rocking”, a system designed to get the GLE out of trouble when it gets stuck, by constantly raising and lowering the suspension itself, with the aim of modifying the pressure it exerts on the ground and thus regaining traction.

Mercedes-AMG GTC

The king of kings, the Mercedes-AMG GTC, the intermediate variant of the German supercar that serves as a prelude to the even more radical GTR, was my final test companion of the day. Here there is no friendly appearance or attractions seeking to simulate a sporty character, but a true supercar whose aggressive and imposing styling foreshadows heart-stopping performance.

Mercedes has subjected its favourite son to a renewal, which includes various improvements to the rear lights and exhaust tailpipes. Not surprisingly, the novelties are found inside, where a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is introduced, along with the new AMG steering wheel and central console dials that are now digital, a detail first seen on the four-door AMG GT and which injects a dose of modernity into the German supercar.

But the real heart of the Mercedes-AMG GTC lies in its mechanical section, featuring a colossal 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 capable of producing 557 CV and 680 Nm of torque, figures that catapult it to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and allow it to reach a top speed of 310 km/h. Despite its GT status and its philosophy as a supercar suitable for everyday use, we find a car that is radical by nature.

The AMG GTC makes it clear from the outset that its natural habitat is the track, through a firm suspension, a very precise and quick steering -although one more degree of feedback would be welcome- and a very low driving position. Its twin-turbo V8 is the cherry on top of this succulent cake and the final touch that reveals it to be a pure, hardcore supercar.

The two turbos are positioned inside the “V” itself in order to be more efficient, and the truth is that turbo lag is barely noticeable when we tickle the AMG GTC’s accelerator. With Sport+ mode engaged, the German supercar becomes an abrupt and aggressive machine and, although it still forgives driver errors, the sway of its rear when we press the right pedal reminds us that we must be cautious at the controls.

Its engine pulls strongly, delivering a first surge between 1,900 rpm and 5,700 rpm, a range in which the 680 Nm of torque will hit you without warning. But when it seems the party is over, the 557 CV arrive all at once at 5,750 rpm, and believe me when I say they make themselves felt , creating the sensation that the AMG GTC’s power has no end.

Even so, the Mercedes-AMG GTC also has a gentle side and, although it is not as peaceful as the Audi R8 or the Porsche 911, comfort is part of its recipe. With this premise, we find a high-flying supercar that is rough and very capable when we want to enjoy the track and, at the same time, calm enough to make a motorway journey without suffering.