The luxury compact car segment has seen significant growth since Mercedes-Benz introduced the CLA series in 2013, marking its first foray into the front-wheel drive market in the United States.
This move not only expanded Mercedes-Benz’s offerings but also brought a new level of luxury to a more accessible price point, making it an attractive entry-level model for many buyers.
As we review the Mercedes Benz CLA250, we will examine its position in the luxury compact car segment, its evolution, and how it balances luxury with affordability.
Our analysis will cover whether the CLA250 delivers the expected Mercedes-Benz experience and how it competes against other luxury compact sedans.
Table of Contents
The Mercedes Benz CLA 250 at a Glance
The Mercedes Benz CLA250 represents a significant milestone in the automotive industry, embodying the perfect blend of luxury and performance. As part of Mercedes-Benz’s strategic lineup, the CLA250 is positioned between the A-Class and C-Class, offering a unique blend of style, features, and price.
Key Specifications and Features
The Mercedes-Benz CLA is known for its sleek, coupe-like design and premium interior. Key features include advanced infotainment systems, driver assistance packages, and a range of engine options. The CLA250, in particular, boasts a 2.0L turbocharged engine, delivering a balance of power and efficiency.
Some of the notable features of the CLA250 include its LED headlights, AMG Line exterior, and burled walnut trim interior accents. These elements combine to create a luxurious driving experience that is both comfortable and exhilarating.
Model History and Positioning
Since its introduction in 2013, the CLA model has undergone significant transformations, with each generation bringing improvements in design, technology, and performance. The CLA is positioned above the A-Class and nearly on par with the C-Class in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup, making it an attractive option for those seeking a stylish and feature-rich vehicle without the higher price tag of the C-Class.
The CLA250 has been a strategic model for Mercedes-Benz, serving as an entry point to the brand for many younger buyers. Its success is underscored by the first generation’s sales of approximately 750,000 units worldwide, marking it as one of Mercedes-Benz’s most successful launches in recent history.
Exterior Design and Styling
The CLA250’s exterior styling is a perfect blend of sportiness and luxury, making it a head-turner on the road. Its sleek design is characterized by sharp lines and distinctive accents that give it a unique presence on the road.
Four-Door Coupe Aesthetics
The Mercedes Benz CLA250 is designed as a four-door coupe, offering the elegance of a coupe with the practicality of four doors. Its sloping roofline and fastback design give it a sporty profile, while the wide stance and low-slung body enhance its dynamic appearance.
Available Styling Packages
The CLA250 offers various styling packages that allow buyers to personalize their vehicle. The Night package is particularly popular, adding distinctive black accents to the exterior. The Edition1 model, for instance, includes red accents on the radiator grille and exterior mirrors, along with AMG sports stripes in matt graphite grey above the side sill panels.
Different trim levels offer a range of wheel options, from standard designs to more aggressive AMG-styled multi-spoke alloys. For example, the Edition1 model features AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels in matt black with special AMG hub caps, enhancing its sporty character.
| Styling Package | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Night Package | Black accents, distinctive look |
| Edition1 Model | Red accents, AMG sports stripes, matt black wheels |
| AMG Styling | Aggressive multi-spoke alloy wheels, sporty appearance |
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The CLA250’s powertrain and handling characteristics are designed to provide a responsive driving experience. At the heart of this experience is its engine and transmission.
Engine and Transmission
The Mercedes Benz CLA250 is equipped with a robust engine that produces 221 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque between 1,800-4,000 rpm. Paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, this powertrain delivers smooth and efficient power delivery. The transmission’s quick shifting capabilities enable seamless acceleration and responsive driving.
Handling and Ride Quality
The CLA250’s handling is characterized by its agile steering and responsive braking. The ride quality is generally comfortable, making it suitable for daily driving. However, the sport-tuned suspension can make the ride slightly firmer, which is typical for performance-oriented vehicles.
Fuel Economy
The CLA250 achieves an EPA estimated fuel economy of 24 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. We analyze the CLA250’s fuel economy ratings, comparing them to its competitors. Factors affecting real-world fuel economy, such as driving style and traffic conditions, are also considered. The CLA250’s efficiency technologies, including start-stop functionality and optimized transmission programming, contribute to its respectable fuel economy.
By balancing performance and efficiency, the Mercedes Benz CLA250 meets expectations for a modern luxury compact. Its powertrain and handling characteristics work in harmony to deliver a compelling driving experience.
Interior Comfort and Quality
Step inside the CLA250, and you’ll be greeted by a sophisticated cabin that blends premium materials with cutting-edge technology. The Mercedes Benz CLA250 interior is designed to provide a luxurious driving experience.
Cabin Design and Materials
The CLA250’s cabin is a masterclass in design, featuring premium materials and attention to detail throughout. The dashboard is sleek and modern, with a prominent screen dominating the center console. We appreciate the use of high-quality materials, including leather and wood trim, which add to the overall sense of luxury.
The interior design is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about creating a comfortable environment for both drivers and passengers. The overall ambiance is enhanced by the available ambient lighting, which can be adjusted to suit individual preferences.
Seating and Space
The CLA250 offers comfortable seating for five, with front and rear seats providing adequate space for adults. While the rear seats are somewhat limited in terms of legroom, they’re suitable for shorter trips or for carrying passengers.
Cargo Capacity
When it comes to cargo capacity, the CLA250 offers a respectable trunk size. The sedan provides 460 liters of trunk space, while the Shooting Brake version offers more, with 470 to 495 liters available. Folding the rear seats flat frees up a usable 1354 liters, making it more practical for larger items.
| Model | Trunk Space (liters) | Folding Rear Seats (liters) |
|---|---|---|
| CLA250 Sedan | 460 | – |
| CLA250 Shooting Brake | 470-495 | 1354 |
We appreciate the standard 60/40 split-folding rear seats, which enhance cargo flexibility when needed.
Technology and Infotainment
The Mercedes Benz CLA250 boasts an array of innovative technology features that enhance the driving experience. At the forefront of this technology is the MBUX system, a sophisticated infotainment platform that offers intuitive controls and a highly personalized experience.
MBUX System and Controls
The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system is a highlight of the CLA250’s technology offerings. It features a high-resolution display and responsive touch controls, making it easy to navigate through various functions and settings. The system is also highly customizable, allowing drivers to tailor the information and features displayed to their preferences.
Voice command is another key aspect of the MBUX system, enabling drivers to control navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings with ease. This hands-free control enhances safety and convenience while driving.
Connectivity and Entertainment Options
The CLA250 also excels in terms of connectivity and entertainment options. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allows for seamless smartphone connectivity, enabling drivers to access their favorite apps, music, and contacts directly through the vehicle’s infotainment system.
Additionally, the Mercedes me connect services offer a range of remote functions, including vehicle status monitoring, remote start, and door locking/unlocking via smartphone. In-car WiFi for up to eight devices is available for a low monthly rate, making the CLA250 an ideal vehicle for those who need to stay connected on the go.
Safety Features and Driver Assistance
Mercedes Benz has equipped the CLA250 with a robust set of safety features, underscoring the brand’s commitment to protecting drivers and passengers. This commitment is evident in both the standard safety equipment and the optional safety packages available for the vehicle.
Standard Safety Equipment
The CLA250 comes with a range of standard safety features, including Collision Prevention Assist Plus, which helps reduce the risk of rear-end collisions. Additionally, the Attention Assist and Traffic Sign Assist (with Speed Limit Assist) systems are also standard, enhancing safety by monitoring driver fatigue and traffic signs.
Key standard safety features include:
- Collision Prevention Assist Plus
- Attention Assist
- Traffic Sign Assist with Speed Limit Assist
These features work together to create a safer driving environment.
Optional Safety Packages
The CLA250 also offers several optional safety packages that can be added to enhance safety further. One of these is the blind-spot monitoring system, which is particularly useful for driver assistance during lane changes. Another valuable option is the active lane-keeping assist, which helps prevent unintentional lane departures through steering intervention.
The adaptive cruise control system with stop-and-go functionality is another optional feature that reduces driver fatigue in highway and traffic situations. Furthermore, the parking assistance systems, including a surround-view camera system, provide a 360-degree view around the vehicle, making maneuvering in tight spaces easier.
Conclusion: Is the Mercedes Benz CLA250 Worth It?
After a thorough examination, we conclude that the Mercedes-Benz CLA250 presents a mixed bag in terms ofperformanceand luxury. The CLA250 is Mercedes’ entry-level, front-drive, compact, four-door coupe, boasting a nicely-finished cabin and respectablefuel economyof 28 mpg.
However, thedriving experiencefalls short of expectations, with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder and seven-speed automatic lacking refinement. While it’s quick, the power delivery is uneven, and the ride can be stiff. The cabin is also noisy and cramped, particularly in the rear.
When evaluating the CLA250’s worth, we must consider itsprice-to-feature ratio. While it offers some luxury features, its premium over mainstream compact sedans may not be justified for everyone. The ideal buyer for the CLA250 is likely someone who prioritizes style and brand prestige over driving dynamics and rear space.
In comparison to rivals like the Audi A3, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, and Acura ILX, the CLA250 faces stiff competition. We recommend considering these alternatives before making a decision.
Ultimately, the CLA250’s long-term ownership considerations, including reliability expectations and maintenance costs, will be crucial in determining its overall value. While it may not fully deliver on the Mercedes-Benz brand promise, it remains a viable option for those seeking an entry-level luxury vehicle.