The next-generation Mercedes A45 AMG has been spotted multiple times already and while some prototypes had only two exhaust tips (like the one in the gallery at the bottom of the page), others have been spotted rocking a quad setup with oval exits. Some might ask why would there be two configurations of the very same car and one possible explanation has to do with the juicy rumour about a hybrid version being in the works.
While Mercedes-AMG has already confirmed the new A45 will hit the 400bhp mark, there’s one report about the possibility of an even more powerful derivate codenamed 'Predator'. Perhaps the latter will be the one to receive the quad exhaust once it makes its debut later during the A-Class’s life cycle. Considering the standard W177 model won’t be unveiled until the first half of 2018, we will have to patiently wait for the new A45 version.
The so-called Panamericana front grille will likely trickle down to the A45 following its debut on the Mercedes-AMG GT R in June 2016. Four-wheel drive will be standard for both versions of the hot hatch, with the Predator model slated to feature additional chassis tweaks and quite possibly other enhancements.
Aside from generating more horsepower, the reworked 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine will also be massaged to deliver additional torque and allow the A45 put up a better fight against the five-cylinder Audi RS3 Sportback.
Slotting below the A45 models will be a warm version, which company insiders have suggested will carry the A32 4Matic or A36 4Matic badge. It will feature more than 300bhp and is going to bridge the current massive gap between the 218bhp A250 Sport and the A45, which in the outgoing model has around 380bhp on tap.
An official debut of the standard A-Class isn’t too far away considering Mercedes just revealed the car's interior, so we might get to see it in March 2018 at the Geneva motor show.
Gallery: Mercedes-AMG A45 Spy Photos
