The Mercedes-Benz CLA ups its game after the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan. The former most affordable Mercedes car in the US is getting a new generation model. Sources say that the next-gen series is due to be unveiled at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas by January 2019.

Since the CLA is closely related to the A-Class Sedan, it is going to offer the same set of trims. Recently, spy video and photos of the car’s Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 version have begun circulating.

The A-Class has an A35 model so there will also be a CLA35 model for the CLA range. However, we are quite sure that what we are looking at here is the CLA45 variant due to some distinguishing features.

Despite the heavy zebra camouflage covering the metal body of the CLA in the video and pictures, the exhaust tips of the auto mainly give away its identity. Like the A35, the CLA35 only has dual exhaust tips. Meanwhile, the A45 has four exhaust pipes which will be copied by the CLA45. The latter is expected to have sportier accessories as well, including a distinct front grille.

According to the source of the spy shots, both the CLA35 and CLA45 will get AMG’s 2.0-liter turbo inline-four engine. There is a strong likelihood that the unit will be mated to a mild hybrid setup.

Furthermore, the AMG CLA models will possibly be equipped with 8-speed dual-clutch transmission with drift mode. The source predicts that the top speed of the cars will be electronically limited to 155 mph. As for the CLA45, it is probably capable of doing a 0-60 mph run in under four seconds.