Offering world-leading aerodynamics, avant-garde coupé design and 4MATIC all-wheel drive (optional), the CLA (fuel consumption combined: 7.3-3.7 l/ 100 km, combined CO₂ emissions: 171-98 g/km) established a new segment in 2013. Sporty proportions and the powerfully dynamic design idiom, with its interplay between concave and convex surfaces, give this four-door coupé its unmistakable look.

The vehicle's striking features include the bonnet with its powerdomes, set right into the front end, and the diamond radiator grille. The arrangement of the light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp lenses gives rise to the characteristic "torch" effect for the daytime running lamps and indicators.

Numerous details indicate that on a design level the CLA represents a further development of that modern classic, the Mercedes-Benz CLS. Three prominent lines give structure to the vehicle when viewed from the side: the front structural edge over the wings flows towards the rear end in a characteristic dropping line. Another, more sinewy line spans the shoulder muscle above the rear axle, while the third feature line extends in a sweeping curve from the front wheel towards the rear. Together, these lines lend depth and dynamism to the side profile.

The sporty, expressive design of the CLA was honed still further in a facelift in summer 2016 involving new bumpers, a diamond radiator grille in black as standard and new light-alloy wheels. The interior also benefited from numerous enhancements, among them new seat covers and trim parts, as well as chrome-plated controls. LED High Performance headlamps, HANDS-FREE ACCESS and further possibilities for integrating smartphones into the control system are all options that serve to enhance safety and comfort.

The CLA Coupé in profile:

• Range: 14 model variants (incl. Mercedes-AMG)
• Lines: Urban, AMG Line
• Special model: WhiteArt Edition¹
• Price: from €29,678.60² (CLA 180 and CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition)
• Length/width/height: 4640/1777/1432 mm
• Wheelbase: 2699 mm
• Boot capacity: 470 l (according to VDA)
• Model history: Market launch 04/2013, facelift: 06/2016
• Production: Kecskemét/Hungary

The basis for all versions of the petrol engine in the CLA is the all-aluminium M 270 unit with two overhead chain-driven camshafts and four valves per cylinder. The M 270 is available with a choice of four output ratings in the CLA. Featuring the flagship engine, the CLA 250 has a displacement of 1991 cc, an output of 155 kW (211 hp) and a peak torque of 350 Nm, which is available between 1200 and 4000 rpm. The CLA 250 Sport has a maximum output as high as 160 kW (218 hp).

The data of the two test cars at a glance:

¹ In Germany: PEAK Edition

² MSRP for Germany including 19% VAT