Mercedes-AMG puts the pedal to the metal in 2014

Mercedes-Benz' high-performance brand AMG has become synonymous around the world with driving performance. It's been no different in China since AMG entered the market in 2007.

AMG now has the largest and most diverse product line-up in China's high-performance sector, covering everything from compact cars, sedans, coupes, SUVs and roadsters all the way up to the SLS AMG super sports car.

This year, the "one man, one engine" brand continues its strong product push, bringing China dynamic models from across the spectrum.

Compact segment

On one end, AMG is entering a new market segment with the launch of the A 45 AMG 4MATIC and CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC.

Combining style and performance, these high-performance compact models give customers new to the brand an attractive introduction to the exciting world of AMG.

Most notably, they feature a brand-new engine developed by AMG. With a staggering maximum output of 265 kW and peak torque of 450 Nm, the 2.0 liter direct injection turbo engine boasts the title of the most powerful series production L4 turbo engine in the world.

But that's not all - a power density of 133 kW puts the new engine on par with the world's most powerful super sports car, and propels these two new AMG models from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.6 seconds.

"With the A 45 AMG 4MATIC and the CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC, we are showing that even four cylinders can provide immense driving pleasure," said Tobias Moers, chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

"As the most dynamic, most powerful and also most efficient four-cylinder series-production cars, both high-performance models have hallmark AMG DNA," Moers added.

Given the exceptional power provided by AMG's new 4-cylinder engine, it is surprising that it also leads the way in terms of efficiency and emissions with combined fuel consumption figures that put the A 45 AMG 4MATIC and CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC at the top of their segments.

AMG is also particularly proud of the new performance-oriented 4MATIC all-wheel drive system that comes standard on both models.

Developed specifically for Mercedes-Benz compact cars, this 4MATIC system features fully-variable power distribution in order to best adapt to the specific type of driving at all times.

Together with the powerful new engine and new 4MATIC system, the AMG SPEED-SHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, AMG sports suspension and AMG high-performance braking system also support the vehicles' extraordinary driving dynamics.

But these two new models don't just perform at exceptional levels; they also look good doing it with bold AMG styling elevating Mercedes-Benz' already sporty and emotional A-Class and CLA-Class designs.

On the exterior, they feature AMG's sports exhaust system with two, rectangular, chrome-plated tailpipes. The bold AMG styling continues inside with AMG racing seats, red accents, and an AMG Performance steering wheel.

S 65 L AMG

On the other end of the spectrum, AMG is also bringing the S 65 L AMG to China. The only high-performance 12-cylinder car from a German premium manufacturer, the S 65 L AMG is the cr��me de la cr��me of Mercedes-Benz' flagship S-Class family.

It's impossible to talk about the S 65 L AMG without talking about its unrivalled power. The AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine delivers an astonishing 463 kW with a jaw-dropping maximum torque of 1000 Nm - figures that enable the S 65 L AMG to outperform all other vehicles in its segment. When floored, the S 65 L AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.3 seconds.

Like its 4-cylinder AMG counterparts, the S 65 L AMG also boasts noteworthy fuel efficiency in spite of its power. With a combined fuel consumption of 12.2 litres per 100 km, reduced by 3.7 litres per 100 km compared to its predecessor, the new S 65 L AMG is the world's most fuel-efficient V 12 high-performance saloon in terms of power and torque.

A key factor in reducing fuel consumption is the S 65 L AMG's AMG SPEED-SHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission with three individual driving programs that feature incredible dynamics and driving ease.

Further adding to the S 65 L AMG's incredible driving comfort is a new innovation from Mercedes-Benz.

With AMG sports suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL and ROAD SURFACE SCAN, the new S-Class is the first car in the world able to recognize road surface irregularities in advance and adjust accordingly.

The S 65 L AMG's exceptional specifications continue inside the vehicle. With Mercedes-Benz' innovative new touchpad that can recognize Chinese characters, Business Telephony in the rear, and the Burmester High-end Surround Sound system, the S 65 L AMG is an oasis for successful individuals who place maximum value on the highest level of prestige.

At the same time, the S 65 L AMG is a paragon of safety with numerous Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive assistance systems and Mercedes-Benz' new head-up display, which displays important information such as speed and navigation instructions on the front windscreen to ensure the driver's attention is less distracted from the road ahead.

A Rear Safety Package with belt bags and active buckles further protects the driver and passengers in case of an accident.

Even as AMG aggressively introduces new products to satisfy customer demand, the brand's trademark craftsmanship and engineering are never compromised.

Whether it's AMG's new 4-cylinder engine or its supremely powerful V12, all engines from the high-performance brand are assembled entirely by hand according to AMG's "one man, one engine" philosophy.

As proof of this commitment, each AMG engine bears the signature of the responsible engine fitter.

These three new models are only a taste of what AMG has to offer. With 5 new models coming to Auto China and more to come by the end of 2014, AMG is set to have its biggest year yet in China.

lifangfang@chinadaily.com.cn