Mercedes-Benz Australia has just dropped something exciting for performance car enthusiasts. The German luxury automaker has expanded its popular Edition R lineup beyond the bigger C 43 and GLC 43 models, bringing this special treatment to the compact A-Class and CLA range. Even better? They’ve introduced a brand-new Edition R+ variant that takes things up another notch.
What Makes These Special Editions Different
The Edition R treatment isn’t just about slapping on some badges and calling it a day. Mercedes-AMG has thoughtfully curated a package that transforms these already sporty compact cars into something that genuinely stands out from the crowd.
Edition R Models: The Perfect Entry Point
The Edition R package covers three models that many consider the sweet spot in Mercedes’ compact lineup:
- AMG A 35 Hatch
- AMG A 35 Sedan
- CLA 35 Coupé
What really catches your eye first are those aggressive styling elements. The AMG Aerodynamics Package comes standard, which means you get a larger front splitter that gives these cars a more planted, serious look. The high-gloss black diffuser blade at the rear adds to that sporty aesthetic, while the A 35 Hatch gets a proper rear wing and the sedan and CLA 35 get a sleek spoiler.
The 19-inch black AMG alloy wheels are probably the most noticeable upgrade from the street. Paired with those eye-catching red brake calipers, they give these cars a distinctly more aggressive stance. Inside, the ARTICO/MICROCUT black upholstery features red contrast stitching that ties everything together beautifully, complemented by AMG aluminum interior trim.
Edition R+: For Those Who Want It All
Here’s where things get really interesting. The new Edition R+ specification is exclusively available on the range-topping models:
- AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+
- CLA 45 S 4MATIC+
These variants get everything from the Edition R package, but Mercedes decided to go further. The AMG Performance Seats are a significant upgrade – they’re designed for serious driving and provide the kind of support you need when you’re making the most of that turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. The CLA 45 S Edition R+ also gets an AMG fixed rear wing that’s all business.
Performance That Backs Up The Looks
Don’t worry – all this styling hasn’t come at the expense of what these cars do best. The Edition R models still pack the same 225kW and 400Nm from their turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines. The Edition R+ variants continue to deliver the full 310kW and 500Nm that makes the A 45 S and CLA 45 S such formidable performers.
Value That Actually Makes Sense
Here’s perhaps the best part about these special editions – the pricing strategy actually works in buyers’ favor. The Edition R models are priced $3,500 less than their regular counterparts while adding significant value through the included packages. The Edition R+ variants cost exactly the same as the standard A 45 S and CLA 45 S models, making them essentially a no-brainer if you’re already considering the flagship versions.
Pricing and Availability
| Model | Price (excluding on-road costs) |
|---|---|
| A 35 4Matic Edition R | $86,200 |
| A 35 4Matic Sedan Edition R | $87,800 |
| CLA 35 4Matic Edition R | $97,700 |
| A 45 S 4Matic+ Edition R+ | $122,500 |
| CLA 45 S 4Matic+ Edition R+ | $129,300 |
Should You Consider One?
These special editions make sense for different types of buyers. If you’ve been eyeing an A 35 or CLA 35 but wanted something that looked more distinctive, the Edition R models offer genuine value. You’re getting styling packages and wheel upgrades that would cost considerably more if optioned separately, all while paying less than the standard models.
For those considering the flagship A 45 S or CLA 45 S, the Edition R+ variants are compelling simply because they cost the same as the regular models but include the performance seats and additional styling elements as standard equipment.
The timing feels right too. With SUVs dominating the market, these compact performance cars offer something different – they’re engaging to drive, practical for daily use, and now available with exclusive styling that helps them stand out in parking lots full of similar-looking crossovers.
FAQs
Q: Are there any mechanical changes in the Edition R models?
A: No, all Edition R and Edition R+ models retain the same engines and performance as their standard counterparts.
Q: How long will these special editions be available?
A: Mercedes hasn’t specified an end date, but special editions typically have limited production runs.
Q: Can I order these models in different colors?
A: Mercedes hasn’t detailed color options yet, but expect the usual AMG palette to be available.
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