The sporty, expressive design of the CLA is now further honed in a facelift involving new front and rear bumpers as well as new light-alloy wheel designs. The interior also benefits 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 addition of Active Brake Assist as a standard feature further strengthens the CLA’s credentials as a leader in its class, as does HANDS-FREE ACCESS as an optional convenience feature. The Mercedes-AMG CLA45 now features even more dynamic styling and a further upgraded interior. With a peak performance of 375 hp and maximum torque of 350 lb-ft, it is amongst the most powerful vehicles in its segment.
The facelifted version of the CLA 4-door Coupe will make its physical debut at the New York International Auto Show on March 23rd. The 2017 CLA will be available in US- dealerships in the third quarter of 2016.
In undertaking the facelift modifications, the Mercedes-Benz designers have subtly honed the distinctive look of the CLA. All models now have a new front bumper with a silver, black or chrome trim strip. The rear bumper is optionally available with a panel incorporating a trim strip in chrome or black (Night Package) between the tailpipes. The tailpipe trim panels themselves are now integrated flush into the bumper. This adds visual width to the vehicle and ensures a superior high-quality appearance thanks to even and narrow gaps where the panels join.
There is a new metallic paint available, Lunar Blue. Most of the available wheels now feature a new design – overall, six different wheels are available to chose from for the CLA250. The CLA previously included the latest generation of assistance and safetysystems that are, in some cases, only now gradually being introduced in the other model series. Among these are Active Brake Assist as standard (known until now as COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS), which is able to trigger autonomous braking as a means of reducing the danger of rear-end collisions, as well as the transmission mode selection function DYNAMIC SELECT. With this system the vehicle characteristics can be adjusted at the touch of a button, as the system modifies the engine, transmission and steering feel. The ambient lighting system, which can be individualized by setting any one of twelve color moods, has been part of the specification since the start.
The interior: slimmer display, new trim parts, chrome-plated controls
The interior also benefits from features such as new seat covers and trim parts, as well as chrome-plated controls. The highlight here is a much slimmer-looking freestanding 8-inch media display with a new-style glass cover, standard equipment in the US. The new-style dials and red needles in the instrument cluster make it easier to read the instruments.
Meticulous attention to detail is also evident from the silver chrome finish to the controls and to the fascia and switches in the doors for the electrically adjustable seats, as well as from the chrome surround to the stowage compartment in the center console.
New trim elements in sail-look finish, matt black ash wood, black DINAMICA microfiber trim (optional in conjunction with the Sport Package Plus) or aluminum with honeycomb grain, serve to liven up the interior. There is also a revised range of seat covers: for the optionally available Interior Package there is a new leather upholstery option in beige/black.
The equipment features: LED High Performance headlamps as an option
The CLA is optionally available with LED High Performance headlamps with a color temperature that is closer to that of daylight than traditional xenon headlamps. This is more restful to the eyes and therefore provides relief to the driver at night. The 34-watt LED low-beam headlamps also have very low energy consumption – around 60 percent less than xenon and around 70 percent less than halogen.
The low-beam headlamps use LED projection technology, while the main-beam headlamps use LED reflection technology. Direction indicators, daytime running lamps and position lights are in the form of multifunctional fiber-optic cables, which are also used for the ‘Coming Home’ function. As all lights use LED technology, there is never a need to change a bulb over the entire service life of the vehicle.
The new optional LED High Performance headlamps are combined with automatic intensity control tail lights, which reduce the dazzling effect for vehicles following. The multi-level functionality regulates the brightness of the brake lights and direction indicators in three stages (Day/Night-time driving/Night-time stationary).
Loading becomes easier with the HANDS-FREE ACCESS option. This system allows the trunk lid or tailgate to be opened without any physical contact; all it takes is a motion of the foot in the area of the rear bumper. HANDS-FREE ACCESS is now included as part of the Premium Package.
The optionally-available Smartphone Integration Package allows the integration and voice-operated control of iPhones® and Android smartphones via Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ respectively. Selected functions can be operated using vehicle controls, thus allowing safe use even while on the move.
A Rear View Camera is now included in the standard equipment for the United States.
Drive system: Efficient and dynamic
The four-cylinder engine in the CLA250 delivers an output of 208 hp and is paired as standard with the 7G-DCT. It is available in both front-wheel drive or with optional 4MATIC.
Overview of the gasoline models:
| CLA250 / CLA250 4MATIC | AMG CLA45 | |
| Number of cylinders / arrangement | 4/inline | 4/inline |
| Displacement (cc) | 1991 | 1991 |
| Rated output (hp) | 208 @ 5,500rpm | 375 @ 6,000 |
| Rated torque (lb-ft) | 258 @ 1,200-4,000rpm | 350 @ 2,250-5,000 |
| Acceleration 0-60mph (s) | 6.9 / 6.8 | 4.1 |
| Top speed (mph) | 130 mph | 155 mph |
Latest AMG design language and improved aerodynamics: AMG CLA45
“Avant-garde meets Driving Performance” is the motto for the Mercedes-AMG CLA45. Offering a unique combination of a sporty driving experience, extravagant design and maximum individuality, the CLA45 also benefits from updated exterior asthetics. LED High Performance headlamps now come as standard, as does the twin louver radiator grille finished in silver chrome.
Aerodynamics have been further improved and the coefficient of drag has been reduced, all to the benefit of driving dynamics and stability. Further exterior features of the facelift include the AMG front bumper in a new A-wing design with front splitter inserts in matte titanium grey and high-gloss black flics, and a new design for the AMG lip spoiler on the trunk lid. New at the rear is the design of the diffuser insert, with four vertical fins. An AMG Aerodynamics package is now available as an optional extra. This comprises a larger front splitter, additional flics, a black AMG lip spoiler plus black accents over the simulated air outlets on the rear bumper.
Two attractive light-alloy wheels join the range: the standard specification includes 18 x 8.0-inch AMG ten-spoke wheels painted titanium grey or black and with a high-sheen finish, with 235/40 R 18 tires. Available as an option are 19 x 8-inch AMG cross-spoke light-alloy wheels with 235/35 R 19 tires. Here, too, there are two color variants, with matte black or titanium grey paintwork, in each case with a high-sheen rim flange.
The interior has been similarly upgraded and interiors are given an exclusive finishing touch of red contrasting topstitching. The new AMG trim design features a matte painted finish while the structure still has a polished surface that bears the AMG logo. It is available in black/red or in black/silver, depending on the chosen upholstery. Also new is the optional AMG DINAMICA Interior package with a trim element in DINAMICA as well as a full-DINAMICA AMG Performance steering wheel.
With a peak performance of 375 hp and maximum torque of 350 lb-ft, the Mercedes- AMG CLA45 4-door Coupe is among the most powerful vehicles in its segment, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds.
Extensive modifications undertaken by Mercedes-AMG last September had already added to the fun at the wheel and emotional appeal of the CLA. Along with the more powerful engine, the new features included the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes as standard, plus shorter gear ratios of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sport transmission. A mechanical limited-slip front differential is available in conjunction with the Dynamic Plus package (optional extra).
MERCEDES-BENZ CLA AND CLA SHOOTING BRAKE:
Stuttgart. The sporty, expressive design of the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake is now being honed further in a facelift involving new bumpers, a diamond radiator grille in black as standard and new light-alloy wheels. The interior also benefits 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 new efficiency champion is the CLA 180 d BlueEFFICIENCY Edition with an output of 80 kW (109 hp) and CO2 emissions from as low as 89 g/km. The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4MATIC Coupé and Shooting Brake models now feature even more dynamic styling and a further upgraded interior. With a peak performance of 280 kW (381 hp) and maximum torque of 475 Nm they are among the most powerful vehicles in their segment.
The facelifted version of the CLA Coupé will make its debut at the New York International Auto Show (25 March to 3 April 2016), while the modified CLA Shooting Brake will be launched to the public on the occasion of the awards ceremony for the Laureus World Sports Awards in Berlin on 17/18 April 2016. Both models will be available to order from April and will land in dealerships in July 2016.
Their sporty proportions and powerful, dynamic design language characterised by sensuously rounded contours make the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake quite unmistakable. In addition, the CLA Shooting Brake offers a concept that is unique in this class of vehicle: while certain styling elements, such as frameless windows, give the car the character of a coupé, it also offers the versatility and practicality of an estate car.
In undertaking the facelift modifications, the Mercedes-Benz designers have subtly honed the distinctive look of the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake. All models now have a diamond radiator grille in black as standard, plus a new front bumper with a silver, black or chrome trim strip. The rear bumper is optionally available with a panel incorporating a trim strip in chrome or black (Night package) between the tailpipes. The tailpipe trim panels themselves are now integrated flush into the bumper. This adds visual width to the vehicle and ensures a superior high-quality appearance thanks to even and narrow gaps where the panels join.
There is a new paintwork shade, cavansite blue metallic. The range of available wheels has also been significantly extended. There is now a choice of five 45.7 cm (18-inch) light-alloy wheels, all in all, including one in a new 5-twin-spoke design in conjunction with the AMG Line. This is available in two colours (painted black or titanium grey, with a high-sheen finish).
Both the CLA and the CLA Shooting Brake already previously included the latest generation of assistance and safety systems that are, in some cases, only now gradually being introduced in the other model series. Among these are, for example, Active Brake Assist as standard (known until now as Collision Prevention Assist Plus), which is able to trigger autonomous braking as a means of reducing the danger of rear-end collisions, as well as the transmission mode selection function Dynamic Select. With this system the vehicle characteristics can be adjusted at the touch of a button, as the system modifies the engine, transmission and steering at the driver’s behest. The ambient lighting system, which can be individualised by setting any one of twelve colour moods, has been part of the specification since the start.
The interior: slimmer display, new trim parts, chrome-plated controls
The interior also benefits from features such as new seat covers and trim parts, as well as chrome-plated controls. The highlight here is a much slimmer-looking freestanding 20.3 cm (8-inch) media display with a new-style glass cover. This is available as an option for the Audio 20 USB and Audio 20 CD systems. The new-style dials and red needles in the instrument cluster make it easier to read the instruments.
Meticulous attention to detail is also evident from the silver chrome finish to the controls and to the fascia and switches in the doors for the electrically adjustable seats, as well as from the chrome surround to the stowage compartment in the centre console.
New trim elements in sail-look finish, matt black ash wood (in conjunction with Exclusive package), black Dinamica microfibre (optional in conjunction with AMG Line) or aluminium with honeycomb grain, serve to liven up the interior. There is also a revised range of seat covers: for the Exclusive package (optional extra) there is a new leather upholstery option in sahara beige/black, while the Urban equipment line is now available with a combination of Artico man-made leather/Maringá fabric in crystal grey or black. Customers opting for black can choose between designs with white or blue highlights.
The equipment features: LED High Performance headlamps as an option
Both the CLA and the CLA Shooting Brake are optionally fitted with LED High Performance headlamps. Their colour temperature is closer to that of daylight than xenon headlamps, for example. This is more restful to the eyes and therefore provides relief to the driver at night. The 34-watt LED low-beam headlamps also have very low energy consumption – around 60 percent less than xenon and around 70 percent less than halogen.
The low-beam headlamps use LED projection technology, while the main-beam headlamps use LED reflection technology. Direction indicators, daytime running lamps and position lights are in the form of multifunctional fibre-optic cables, which are also used for the “Coming Home” function. As all lights use LED technology, there is never a need to change a bulb over the entire service life of the vehicle.
The optional LED High Performance headlamps are combined here with tail lights with automatic intensity control. These reduce the dazzling effect for vehicles following. The multi-level functionality regulates the brightness of the brake lights and direction indicators in three stages (Day/Night-time driving/Night-time stationary).
Loading becomes easier with the Hands-Free Access option. This system allows the boot lid or tailgate to be opened (CLA and CLA Shooting Brake) and even closed (CLA Shooting Brake) without any physical contact. All it takes is a motion of the foot in the area of the rear bumper. Hands-Free Access is now included as part of the KEYLESS-GO Comfort package.
A trailer coupling is now available in conjunction with the AMG Line, too. Like the CLA Shooting Brake, the CLA now also features a coat hook on the grab handle above each rear side window.
The enhanced Smartphone Integration system (optional extra) allows the integration and voice-operated control of iPhones® and Android smartphones via Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ respectively. Selected functions can be operated using the vehicle controls, thus allowing safe use even while on the move.
By comparison with the existing Convenience Telephony option, the Universal Telephony package includes a universal smartphone cradle and two charging cables with Lightning or Micro USB connectors. The connection to the LTE-compatible exterior aerial is made via induction.
Drive system: New efficiency champion from 89 g CO2/km
The new efficiency champion is the CLA 180 d BlueEFFICIENCY Edition with an output of 80 kW (109 hp), which is available with manual transmission only. A series of consumption-reducing measures and the vehicle’s exemplary aerodynamics mean that its fuel consumption according to NEDC is a mere 3.5/3.6 l/100 km (figures for CLA/CLA Shooting Brake). CO2 emissions stand at 89/94 g/km.
The new CLA 220 4MATIC expands the choice for fans of all-wheel drive. Its four-cylinder petrol engine, with a displacement of 1991 cc, delivers an output of 135 kW (184 hp) and is paired as standard with the 7G-DCT.
New to the range of engines for the CLA Shooting Brake is also the CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition with a 1595 cc four-cylinder petrol engine and an output of 90 kW (122 hp). Its consumption according to NEDC is 5.5 l/100 km. This engine has only been available until now for the Coupé.
Overview of the current diesel models:
| CLA 180 d BE Edition | CLA 180 d | CLA 200 d2 | CLA 220 d1,2 | |
| Number of cylinders/arrangement | 4/in-line | 4/in-line | 4/in-line | 4/in-line |
| Displacement (cc) | 1461 | 1461 | 2143 | 2143 |
| Rated output (kW/hp at rpm) |
80/109 at 4000 | 80/109 at 4000 | 100/136 at 3200-4000 | 130/177 at 3600-3800 |
| Rated torque (Nm at rpm) |
260 at 1750-2500 | 260 at 1750-2500 | 300 at 1400-3000 | 350 at 1400-3400 |
| NEDC fuel consumption (/100 km) urban/extra-urban/combined | 4.0/3.1/3.5 (4.1/3.3/3.6) |
4.3/3.3/3.7 (4.7/3.8/4.1) |
5.2/3.3/4.0 (5.2/3.4/4.1) |
4.9/3.5/4.0 (4.8/3.6/4.0) |
| Combined CO2 emissions (g/km) | 89 (94) |
98 (101) |
104 (108) |
104 (105) |
| Combined fuel consumption from (l/100 km) |
3.5 (3.6) |
4.0-3.7 (4.2-3.9) |
4.4-4.0 (4.4-4.1) |
4.2-4.0 (4.3-4.0) |
| Combined CO2 emissions from (g/km) | 89 (94) |
108-98 (110-101) |
114-104 (115-108) |
111-104 (112-105) |
| Efficiency class | A+ (A+) | A+ (A+) | A+ (A+) | A+ (A+) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s) |
11.6 (11.9) |
11.6 (11.9) |
9.5 (9.7) |
7.7 (7.8) |
| Top speed (km/h) | 190 (190) |
205 (200) |
220 (215) |
232 (228) |
Figures for versions with manual transmission. In brackets: figures for CLA Shooting Brake.
1 With 7G-DCT as standard; 2 also available with 4MATIC.
Overview of the current petrol models:
| CLA 180 BE Edition | CLA 180 | CLA 200 | CLA 220 4MATIC1 | |
| Number of cylinders/arrangement | 4/in-line | 4/in-line | 4/in-line | 4/in-line |
| Displacement (cc) | 1595 | 1595 | 1595 | 1991 |
| Rated output (kW/hp at rpm) |
90/122 at 5000 | 90/122 at 5000 | 115/156 at 5300 | 135/184 at 5500 |
| Rated torque (Nm at rpm) |
200 at 1250-4000 | 200 at 1250-4000 | 250 at 1250-4000 | 300 at 1200-4000 |
| Fuel consumption, NEDC (l/100 km)
urban/extra-urban/combined |
6.8/4.0/5.0 (7.5/4.4/5.5) |
7.4/4.2/5.4 (7.4/4.4/5.5) |
7.5/4.3/5.5 (7.5/4.5/5.6) |
8.4/5.4/6.5 (8.7/5.5/6.7) |
| Combined CO2 emissions (g/km) | 117 (126) |
125 (128) |
126 (130) |
152 (154) |
| Efficiency class | B (B) | B (B) | B (B) | C (C) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s) |
9.0 (9.1) |
9.0 (9.1) |
8.2 (8.5) |
7.1 (7.2) |
| Top speed (km/h) | 190 (190) |
210 (210) |
230 (225) |
240 (235) |
Figures for versions with manual transmission. In brackets: figures for CLA Shooting Brake.
1 With 7G-DCT as standard.
| CLA 2502 | CLA 250 Sport2, 3 | CLA 45 4MATIC1 | |
| Number of cylinders/arrangement | 4/in-line | 4/in-line | 4/in-line |
| Displacement (cc) | 1991 | 1991 | 1991 |
| Rated output (kW/hp at rpm) |
155/211 at 5500 | 160/218 at 5500 | 280/381 at 6000 |
| Rated torque (Nm at rpm) |
350 at 1200-4000 | 350 at 1200-4000 | 475 at 2250-5000 |
| Fuel consumption, NEDC (l/100 km)
urban/extra-urban/combined |
8.6/5.0/6.4 (8.7/5.2/6.6) |
8.9/5.4/6.7 [8.8/5.8/6.9] |
9.2/5.6/6.9 (9.2/5.6/6.9) |
| Combined CO2 emissions (g/km) | 148 (151) |
156 [160] |
162 (162) |
| Efficiency class | C (C) | D [D] | D (C) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s) |
6.6 (6.8) |
6.5 [6.7] |
4.2 (4.3) |
| Top speed (km/h) | 240 (240) |
250 [240] |
250 (250) |
Figures for versions with manual transmission. In brackets: figures for CLA Shooting Brake.
1 With 7G-DCT as standard; 2 also available with 4MATIC. 3 In square brackets: figures for CLA 250 Sport 4MATIC Shooting Brake.
Latest AMG design language and improved aerodynamics: CLA 45 4MATIC
“Avant-garde meets Driving Performance” is the motto for the Mercedes-AMG models CLA 45 4MATIC and CLA 45 4MATIC Shooting Brake. These two cars offer a unique combination of a fascinatingly sporty driving experience, extravagant design and maximum individuality, while also benefiting from the facelift modifications. Some items that were previously options, such as the LED High Performance headlamps, now come as standard. The twin louvre in the radiator grille is finished in silver chrome.
The aerodynamics have been further improved and the Cd value reduced, all to the benefit of the driving dynamics and stability. In the case of the Coupé for example, the design of the AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid is new. Further exterior features of the facelift include the AMG front apron in a new A-wing design with front splitter inserts in matt titanium grey and high-gloss black flics. The latter also help to improve the flow of cooling air. New at the rear is the design of the diffuser insert, with four vertical fins. An AMG Aerodynamics package is now available as an optional extra. This comprises a larger front splitter, additional flics, a black AMG spoiler lip at the rear plus spoiler lips over the simulated air outlets on either side at the back.
Two attractive light-alloy wheels join the range: the standard specification includes 45.7 cm (18-inch) AMG 10-spoke wheels painted titanium grey or black and with a high-sheen finish, with 235/40 R 18 tyres on 8.0 J x 18 ET 48. Available as an option are 48.3 cm (19-inch) AMG cross-spoke light-alloy wheels with 235/35 R 19 tyres on 8 J x 19 ET 48. Here, too, there are two colour variants, with matt black or titanium grey paintwork, in each case with a high-sheen rim flange.
The interior has been similarly upgraded. The instrument panel is upholstered as standard in ARTICO man-made leather, as are the beltlines. Both are given an exclusive finishing touch of red contrasting topstitching. The trim element represents a further highlight: this features a matt printed finish, although the essential structure still has a polished surface that bears the AMG logo. It is available in black/red (standard) or in black/silver (in conjunction with the Exclusive package). Also new is the optional AMG DINAMICA Cockpit package with a trim element in Dinamica and a Dinamica Performance steering wheel. The ignition key and the E-Select selector lever each bear an AMG emblem.
With a peak performance of 280 kW (381 hp) and maximum torque of 475 Nm, the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4MATIC Coupé and Shooting Brake are among the most powerful vehicles in their segment, accelerating from rest to 100 km/h in just 4.2/4.3 seconds (figures for Coupé/Shooting Brake). At the same time, fuel consumption of just 6.9 litres for every 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) underlines the trailblazing standards of efficiency achieved by Mercedes-AMG.
Extensive modifications undertaken by Mercedes-AMG last September had already added to the fun at the wheel and emotive appeal of both CLA models. Along with the more powerful engine, the new features included the AMG Dynamic Select transmission modes as standard, plus the shorter gear ratios of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission. A mechanical differential lock is available in conjunction with the Dynamic Plus package (optional extra).
Did you know that…
…on sale in the USA since 2013, the CLA was the first compact car to be marketed in the US market by Mercedes-Benz. As the new entry-level model, it has proved hugely successful, with sales of 29,643 units (2015: +8.3% vs. 2014) making the USA the single most important market for the CLA in 2015.
…more than four million compact cars from Mercedes-Benz have already been delivered to customers worldwide?
…the model series is built at the company’s production facility at Kecskémet in Hungary? Production of the compact four-door Coupe started in January 2013. Since the facility opened in 2012 a total of 500,000 vehicles have already left the production line of the Kecskémet plant, which also produces the B-Class.
…as far as its technology is concerned, the AMG 2.0-liter turbo unit is related to the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine in the Mercedes-AMG GT that delivers up to 503 hp.
…the four-cylinder turbo engine has already received the renowned “Engine of the Year Award” twice? The AMG unit won the award in the category for engines with a displacement of 1.8 – 2.0 liters in both 2014 and 2015. The independent experts were impressed by the trailblazing engineering and outstanding characteristics of this high- end four-cylinder unit.
…the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake are the fourth and fifth members of the Mercedes‑Benz family of compact cars? And what a successful family it is: in 2015, sales of the A- and B-Class, the CLA, the CLA Shooting Brake and the GLA reached 582,531 – the highest figure ever for the compact models and representing an increase of 25.8% over 2014.
…the model series is built at the company’s production facility at Kecskémet in Hungary? Production of the compact four-door Coupé started in January 2013; that of the CLA Shooting Brake in January 2015. Since the facility opened in 2012 a total of 500,000 vehicles have already left the production line of the Kecskémet plant, which also produces the B-Class.
…as far as its technology is concerned, the AMG 2.0-litre turbo unit is related to the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine in the Mercedes-AMG GT that delivers up to 375 kW (510 hp).
… the four-cylinder turbo engine has already received the renowned “Engine of the Year Award” twice? The AMG unit won the award in the category for engines with a displacement of 1.8 – 2.0 litres in both 2014 and 2015. The independent experts were impressed by the trailblazing engineering and outstanding characteristics of this high-end four-cylinder unit.