Overview

What's New for 2020

The Mercedes-Benz CLA comes in three trim levels, the CLA 250, AMG CLA 35, and AMG CLA 45.

The CLA 250 has a starting MSRP of about $37,000. Standard exterior features include 18-inch alloy wheels, run-flat tires, automatic LED headlights, heated side mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, and chrome window trim. Interior features include leatherette upholstery, 12-way front seats with memory settings, push-button start, voice-activated dual-zone climate control, a Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, seven-inch digital instrument cluster, seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, touchpad controller, and voice control.

For approximately $47,000, drivers can avail themselves of the AMG CLA 35 model, which is the mid-tier trim. It features a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, a panoramic moonroof, proximity keyless entry, satellite radio, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen.

Finally, with an estimated $55,000 base price, the AMG CLA 45 adds a yet-more-powerful engine, a unique eight-speed transmission, 19-inch AMG wheels, active blind-spot warning, power-folding mirrors, hands-free power trunk, and leatherette/Alcantara upholstered seats.

A range of optional equipment includes surround-view camera, Burmester surround-sound system, active LED headlights, MBUX Interior Assistant (Gesture Control), wireless smartphone charging, and MBUX Augmented Reality for Navigation.

The CLA 250 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, which creates 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It mates to a seven-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and power meets the pavement with either front- or all-wheel drive. The EPA estimates it should return 29 mpg combined on premium fuel.

The AMG CLA 35 is estimated to get 25 mpg combined, but then again, its 2.0-liter turbo has been massaged to generate 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, making the CLA accelerate much faster. It comes standard with all-wheel-drive.

For those who want all-out performance, the AMG CLA 45 is for them, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that creates 382 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Not bad for a car that weighs about 3,500 pounds. The AMG CLA 45 comes with a unique eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive.