The fact that both the new Mercedes A45 and CLA45 AMG models are enjoying a great success should be no surprise to anyone. After all this is the first time AMG ->ke8 is offering reasonable priced cars and also is the first time an AMG model is offered by an inline-four engine.

In a recent interview with Motoring, Mercedes-Benz->ke187 AMG boss Tobias Moers confirmed that the company itself was a little bit surprised by the huge success the two models are enjoying: "For sure when you enter a new segment there is much interest. I was not surprised at the success of the cars... Well, maybe a little surprised... But the feedback from the distributors around the world for the next year – that was very surprising."

As a result, AMG will have to increase production to meet the expectations around the globe. You also have to keep in mind that next year Mercedes plans to introduce the new GLA 45 AMG model that will boost sales even more.

Moers also confirmed that the two models will not receive a Black Series version, because Black Series will be kept exclusive for the two-door models.

Click past the jump to read more about the Mercedes CLA 45 and A 45 AMG.

Mercedes CLA 45 AMG

Mercedes unveiled the CLA 45 AMG at the 2013 New York Auto Show and put it on sale in September at a starting price of $48,375.

The model is powered by an AMG-built 2.0-liter turbo engine that delivers a total of 360 horsepower and a peak torque of 331 pound-feet. With this power the CLA 45 AMG will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds and up to a top speed of 155 mph.

Mercedes A45 AMG

The A45 AMG was unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show and went on sale in April. Up to this point this model is not offered on the U.S. market.

Just like with the CLA45 AMG, the A45 AMG is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 360 horsepower and a peak torque of 331 pound-feet of torque. Performance figures are also identical: 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph.