The luxury compact sedan CLA Class is the first product to come out of Mercedes-Benz India’s stable this year. The all-new CLA Class is an absolute stunner. The sedan is based on the Mercedes’ MFA (Modular Front-Wheel Architecture) platform, which is earlier used for CLA 45 AMG and A-Class. The diamond radiator grille, at the front end, looks identical to the A-Class, though, the new gloss black elements mark a difference. The bi-xenon headlamps, front bumper, LED daytime running lamps, coupe like roofline, side curves, sporty alloy wheel, compact rear and other styling elements grant it a true sporty appearance.
The CLA, from inside, looks similar to the A-Class, since both share the dashboard with the sporty dials, wide console and propeller-styled air vents. In terms of quality and build, it’s a pure Merc which means almost no compromise on that front. The sedan gets a HD infotainment screen with 5th generation software and new features for the COMAND computer. The racecar seat design looks very sporty. Both the front and rear seats get fixed headrests, and offer sufficient thigh support. It’s quite spacious; however, the rear row of seats, due to compact rear design, feels little cramped. The CLA hosts a bunch of advanced equipments and features too.
The CLA is powered by a 136bhp, 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel motor and a 181bhp, 2.0-litre petrol engine. Transmitting power to the front wheels of the car is a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with three driving modes – Economy, Sport and Manual. The refinement levels of both the powertrains are quite impressive, but aren’t sporty to drive. Ride is smooth and comfortable, thanks to a well-tuned suspension. Driving dynamics is more mature when compared to the A-Class hatchback.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA Class is perfect pick for the buyers who wish to own a stunning car with a three-pointed star. Now, have a look what critics said about the Merc’s CLA Class.
Here’s what automobile critics said about the car
“She looks stunning with lots of oomph and knows how to make heads turn; say hello to the gorgeous new Mercedes-Benz CLA. The plastic used inside the cabin is pretty good too though not as top-notch as one expects from Mercedes-Benz. The CLA 200 CDI does have quite a bit of punch, lots of torque and doesn’t get too noisy at high-speeds. The petrol was easily our pick for its sporty and peppy drive. The diesel, on the other hand, offers a more cruising type of driving dynamics. The suspension is well-tuned and doesn’t feel too stiff and takes in large speed-breakers or potholes.” – NDTV Auto
“Both the diesel and petrol CLA don’t feel particularly sporty to drive. The CLA 200 petrol, though more entertaining than the modestly powered CLA 200 CDI, still isn’t the car that you want to wring by the scruff of its neck. The cabin is a great place to be if you’re going to be sitting up front, and interior quality will keep reminding you that you’re sitting in nothing less than a Mercedes. But if there is one reason to buy the CLA, it’s got to be the stunning styling.” – Autocar India
“The CLA is a stunner both inside and out, drives well and is feature loaded too. The CLA will be the most affordable Merc sedan and has the potential to become yet another star for Mercedes-Benz.” – Overdrive
“The compact and sensible sedan, Great design with a comfy albeit snug-fit, cabon. Not a driving god like its AMG sibling but a conveniently sized package.” – Topgear India
Rating Based On Critics’ Review – 4/5
ENGINE
Engine Type 2.0-litre 2.2-litre
Maximum Power (bhp/rpm) 181/5500 136/3600-4400
Maximum Torque (Nm/rpm) 300/1200 300/1600-3000
TRANSMISSION
Type Seven-speed dual-clutch
