Mercedes A-Class AMG Hot Hatch Spied Testing

Update: moving away from earlier talk of a FWD layout, the latest reports out of Europe is that the A-Class AMG will get an AWD system.

The top-shelf AMG-tuned version of Mercedes' recently-revealed A-Class is on its way, and new spy photos this week offer another look at the hot hatch.

According to reports out of Europe, the carmaker will call on its UK-based High Performance Engines outfit to massage the engine in its range-topping A-Class model.

Responsible for developing the carmaker's Formula One racing engines, the HPE team will reportedly overhaul Merc's existing turbocharged M271 petrol engine.

While the 1.8 litre engine produces 150kW in the E 250 CGI, Britain's Autocar magazine claims that HPE will increase displacement to 2.0 litres and screw more than 250kW out of the small mill.

A version of the M271 engine is also used to power cars in the Formula 3 racing series, and was recently made the control engine in Australia's F3 championship.

The report says that AMG boss (and former HPE head honcho) Ola Kallenius has laid down one simple rule: the AMG-badged A-Class car must rival Audi's RS 3, which uses a turbocharged five-cylinder engine to deliver 250kW and 450Nm of torque.

If the team can come through with the goods, the so-called A 25 AMG (or should that be A 20 AMG?) will also best the expected 235kW output of the new BMW M135i.

Unlike the rear-wheel-drive Bimmer however, the AMG A-Class is expected to channel its power through a version of Merc's all-wheel-drive system.

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