Overview

What's New for 2019

Mercedes-Benz makes the CLA-Class in three trim levels: CLA250, CLA250 4Matic, and CLA45 AMG. The CLA250 comes with standard cruise control, automatic wipers, 17-inch alloy wheels, power adjustable driver's seat, driver memory settings, premium vinyl upholstery, 60/40 split folding rear seats, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, infotainment Comand interface, 5.8-inch color display, Mbrace telematics and smartphone integration system, Bluetooth connectivity and a sound system with a CD player. CLA250 4Matic models add all-wheel drive. The CLA45 AMG has the same features, plus the 4Matic all-wheel drive, larger brakes, 18-inch wheels, and a revised suspension tuning for better performance. The optional Premium 1 package can be fitted onto either model, and it includes dual zone automatic climate control, automatic dimming mirrors, heated seats, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system with satellite radio and an iPod interface. The Multimedia package includes a rearview camera, a 7-inch infotainment screen, 10-gigabite music server, navigation with voice commands, and a six-CD changer. A Driver Assistance package includes lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and lane keeping assist. CLA250 models can be outfitted with the Sport package, which adds a more aggressive front fascia, 18-inch wheels, and upgraded brakes. A number of stand-alone options exist for all three trims. These include a rear spoiler, panoramic sunroof, summer performance tires, bi-xenon headlights, leather upholstery, bi-xenon headlights, heated seats, wood trim, low-cost navigation system for the 5.8-inch display, and parking sensors plus an automated parking system. CLA45 AMG models can be outfitted with some exclusive stand-alone parts like interior and exterior carbon fiber trim, 19-inch wheels, an AMG sport steering wheel, sport seats, and brake calipers painted red. A CLA-Class comes with a factory invoice of about $30,000 for a CLA250 and an MSRP of about $31,000. The CLA250 4Matic adds about $2,000 to the vehicle’s MSRP. You benefit as a member when you visit your Certified Dealer, meaning you are guaranteed to save money on your vehicle purchase without having to endure any kind of a hassle.

The CLA250 has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder engine that puts out 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The only transmission is a seven-speed automated manual, which also includes shifter paddles. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available. The CLA45 AMG uses the same engine, but through a twin-scroll turbocharger and more robust internal components, the engine produces 355 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The seven-speed automatic transmission is also tuned for faster shifts, and all-wheel drive is standard. Both models have a start/stop feature that prevents idling, helping to save on fuel.

Mercedes fans will be relieved to know that while the CLA-Class is inexpensive for a Benz, the interior is anything but cheap. The analog gauges are large and easily read, the controls in the center stack have a conservative and highly organized look to them, and the display screen sits at the top of the center stack, making it incredibly easy to reference while driving. The fit and finish is excellent, with luxurious materials throughout. One strange feature in the car is the steering column-mounted shifter, instead of the shifter being located in the center console like in other Mercedes. The front seats are well padded and nicely contoured, and the optional sports seats are even more contoured and feature large side bolsters. The front seating area is also quite spacious. The bad news is the rear seats are fairly comfortable yet they're cramped. The sloping roofline makes for little headroom and small door openings that make climbing in an out a difficult task. Trunk capacity is about 11 cubic feet, which is average for a compact sedan.