You Can Have Your Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 Edition 55 In Any Color - As Long As It’s Black

The performance divisions of both Mercedes-Benz and BMW are marking milestone anniversaries this year, with Mercedes-AMG celebrating 55 years and BMW’s M division toasting 50. AMG is inviting its customers to join the party with their new CLA 45 Edition 55.

On the heels of Mercedes-AMG’s release of details surrounding the exclusive Edition 55 models of the G63 and CLA 35 we’ve seen in recent weeks, AMG enthusiasts will be excited to hear that there will also be a Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 Edition 55.

While there’s been no indication that the limited edition CLA 35 will make its way to the US, word has it that 55 of the AMG G63 Edition 55 models will make their way to American soil. As for the AMG CLA 45, the latest press release from Mercedes-Benz US indicates that it too will see an allotment of 55 examples destined for the United States.

Like the G63 Edition 55 announced in March, color selection in other markets includes both black and white, but vehicles shipping to American soil are only available in black. In the case of the AMG CLA 45 Edition 55, the one and only finish option is Cosmos Black Metallic.

With such a limited production run we can see the point, although some may find it ironic considering the recently announced Mercedes E-Class Night Edition could be had in any of the brand’s color options.

Will there be more ponies on tap to ramp up the fun?

Let’s get this out of the way right off the bat…under the hood, the Edition 55 gets the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder and 8-speed automatic transmission as other CLA 45’s.

While a power bump would’ve been nice, enthusiasts will still have to make do with 382 hp and 354 lb-ft of twist routed through the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system. Not that the standard setup is lacking, and with Drift mode on tap, there’s plenty of fun to be had if you’re so inclined.

Then what’s so special about the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 Edition 55?

Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 Edition 55 models are equipped with an AMG Aerodynamics package that was developed in the wind tunnel to improve high-speed driving characteristics. To deliver an aggressive appearance, high-gloss black covers the more prominent front splitter and additional flics, deflectors on the simulated rear apron air outlets, and the AMG rear wing and diffuser.

In case one Night Package isn’t enough…

The CLA 45 Edition 55 includes both the Night Package and Night Package II available on other AMG CLA 45 models. It’s safe to say that it further reinforces the sinister appearance by adding even more high-gloss black accents to the car’s exterior. The cars also come with dark-tinted heat-insulating glass from the factory, and further shadowy accents come in the form of a black-chrome finish on the Panamericana grille, tailpipes, and rear badging.

For what it’s worth, the Edition 55 can’t completely hide in the shadows. Unique grey decals that have a retro fade-effect adorn both sides of the car, and a silver AMG fuel filler cap also catches the eye. Where the rubber meets the road, every Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 Edition 55 rides on matte grey AMG 19-inch cross-spoke forged wheels with special “Edition 55” center caps.

The outside looks great, but does the CLA 45 Edition 55 get an upgraded interior?

Upon opening the door, passengers are greeted by backlit door sill panels with AMG lettering illuminated in red. Settling into the red and black Nappa leather AMG Performance seats, drivers are presented with a microfiber wrapped flat-bottom AMG Performance steering wheel that has a unique “Edition 55” badge as well as a black 12 o’clock marking.

Other highlights in the cockpit include dark brushed aluminum AMG trim pieces offset by plenty of black and red accents. Even the floor mats get into the act, with the Mercedes-AMG velour rugs emblazoned with “Edition 55” in red stitching. As a final touch, new owners are also presented with a custom indoor car cover with a silver AMG logo to protect their investment.

So, when can you get your hands on a Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 Edition 55?

Mercedes says the US market 2023 AMG CLA 45 Edition 55’s are set to arrive later this year. The company has yet to release exact timing or US pricing for the upgrade, but when you combine an MSRP of US $55,900 for the regular CLA 45 and factor in the Edition 55 upgrade charge of €14,280 (US $14,800) in Germany, American buyers will likely be looking at figures north of $70,000 to get their hands on one.

Let me know your thoughts on the Edition 55 and any other Mercedes topics!

Tom Bennett covers premium German automotive brand news at Torque News and has had a lifelong obsession with cars, spending more than his share of time in, around, (and frequently under the hood of) a wide variety of vehicles. His eclectic taste in cars has led to the ownership of a steady procession of vehicles from nearly every mainstream brand over the past 3 decades. After working in and writing about the foreign exchange industry for over 20 years, he is excited to be shifting gears to share his passion for all things automotive. You can follow Tom on LinkedIn and Twitter for daily automotive news.