The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG will arrive later this year and Mercedes-Benz invited journalists for a test drive this week. Here’s the first impression.

From Autoweek:

“In many ways, the AMG is a more pleasant everyday driver than the CLA45 AMG. The GLA delivers the same rousing performance, but offers a more comfortable ride, better for daily commuting.”

“…the transverse four-cylinder is most impressive from 4,500 rpm and up, where its character hardens and delivers explosive qualities on a planted throttle. It also sounds fantastic: a raspy growl under load and the occasional exhaust crackle.”

From Edmunds:

“We tried it on some rocky terrain and it happily traverses trails and loose gravel roads without feeling overly fragile or vulnerable. Whether you like it for its looks or its capabilities, the GLA fitted with the off-road package is uniquely appealing.”

“It adds more cargo space, a higher seating position for better visibility and even some rough road ability if you need it. Not bad considering it has the same footprint, similar styling and should likely deliver equivalent mileage numbers.”