This is the final addition to Panamericana’s family.
Mercedes-AMG will finally give the A35/CLA35 the same Panamericana grille as all AMG models. This means even the cheapest Mercedes-AMGs can match AMGs at all levels. The Panamericana grille has become a status symbol. However, this unique styling feature dates back to the 1950s.
In the 1950s, the Panamericana grille was first used on the 300SL. Other racing models also used the grille. After a fight with a vulture, a 300SL equipped with this grille won the Carrera Patagoniana in 1952.
In 2018, the Panamericana grille was introduced to the AMG GT sportscar. Mercedes-AMG began using the grille on all AMG models, from their SUVs to their luxury S65 and S63 models after it was first used on the AMG GT. All AMG products eventually had the Panamericana Grille. This will now include both the A35 & CLA 35.
The entry-level A35, CLA35 AMGs offer aspiring Mercedes-AMG customers the chance to join an exclusive club with a more practical and affordable vehicle. These cars are often dismissed as “unrealistic” AMGs by many. This engine is not Mercedes-AMG and was not built by hand like other Mercedes-AMG engines. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine instead is a modified version from the A250 and CLA 250 entry-level engines.
Are these details enough to undermine the performance and value of the A35/CLA 35? Is it worth sacrificing some exclusivity for a lower-priced entry-level AMG model?