When you hear Mercedes-AMG, what initially come to mind are cars such as the sleek and sexy GT, and probably the absurd Project One. We are here to inform you though, that the brand also has several smaller offerings, especially if you’re looking for your next hot hatch.

This is the A35, your gateway drug into the crazy, high-performance world of AMG.

Based on the petite Mercedes A-Class hatchback, expect aerodynamic improvements on it as it features the full-fat AMG aero package that has been developed in actual wind tunnels. You get bits such as the signature AMG grille, more aggressive bumpers and fenders, and a prominent roof-mounted rear wing.

Powering the whole shebang is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-banger mated to a seven-speed AMG SpeedShift DCT. This may sound small, but a power output of 306hp and 400Nm in a package that weighs 1,580kg allows the vehicle to rocket to 100km/h from a standstill in 4.7 seconds.

It rides on an AMG-tuned suspension, and power is sent to all four wheels via the 4Matic four-wheel-drive system. It runs on 19-inch AMG five-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels with high-performance brakes, so it is more than capable of carving corners and stopping on a dime when you need it to.

Even with all its sportiness, it still is a luxurious vehicle and has the premium features to prove it. It has a Nappa-leather performance steering wheel, sport seats, and stainless steel pedals. The AMG menu has options to display a G-meter, a race timer, and engine data.

MBUX is front-and-center with two 10.25-inch screens (instrument and infotainment) that are voice-controlled. It supports modern phone connectivity, and there is a wireless charger so no more fiddling with cables.

Other creature comforts include a Burmester surround-sound system, 64-color ambient lighting, heated front seats with fatigue-fighting energizing seat kinetics, heat-insulating glass, and driver aids like blind-spot monitoring and active lane-keeping assist.

For more details, you can visit this site or any of the Mercedes-Benz dealerships found in EDSA-Greenhills, Bonifacio Global City, Alabang and Cebu.