The all-new Mercedes CLA has officially arrived in showrooms worldwide, bringing a refreshed take on the brand’s entry-level luxury coupe. Priced from £45,615 in the UK and $44,400 in the US for the base CLA 250 model, this sleek four-door positions itself strategically in the compact premium segment against rivals like the Audi A3 Sedan and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe.
Under the hood, Mercedes has upgraded the CLA with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine featuring mild hybrid technology. The standard powertrain delivers a respectable 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, enough to propel the CLA 250 from 0-60 mph in a brisk 6.3 seconds. The drivetrain is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive as standard and 4MATIC all-wheel drive available for those seeking enhanced traction.
The CLA’s turbocharged 2.0-liter powerplant delivers 221 horses while mild hybrid tech enhances both performance and efficiency.
Efficiency doesn’t take a backseat despite the performance credentials. The CLA 250 achieves impressive fuel economy ratings of 26 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined. The mild hybrid system not only boosts efficiency but also smooths out the operation of the start-stop system, a welcome refinement that I’ve found lacking in some competitors.
The interior showcases Mercedes’ commitment to technology with the latest MBUX 2.4 infotainment system featuring wireless smartphone integration. Racing enthusiasts will appreciate the flat-bottom sport steering wheel that provides precise handling and a performance-focused feel. Passengers will enjoy the standard Panorama roof that bathes the cabin in natural light while enhancing the open-air driving experience. Despite its coupe styling, the CLA offers seating for five and practical cargo space of 11.6 cubic feet, enhanced by 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats.
For performance enthusiasts, the lineup expands to include the AMG CLA 35 with 302 horsepower and the range-topping AMG CLA 45 S 4MATIC delivering a substantial 416 horsepower.
Safety remains paramount with Mercedes’ extensive suite of driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking.
Mercedes clearly aims the CLA at younger luxury buyers seeking to enter the brand’s ecosystem. With its blend of style, technology and performance at a relatively accessible price point, the CLA continues Mercedes’ strategy of offering premium experiences in more compact packages.
