Is the Mercedes-Benz CLA classified as an A-segment or C-segment car?
2 Answers
The Mercedes-Benz CLA belongs to the A-segment. Here are the specific details about A-segment cars: A-segment cars, also known as compact cars, typically have a body length ranging from 4.3 meters to 4.79 meters, a wheelbase between 2.35 meters and 2.79 meters, and an engine displacement generally from 1.4 liters to 2.0 liters. A-segment cars are further divided into the following two categories: 1. A0-segment sedans: A0-segment sedans, or subcompact cars, have a wheelbase of 2.35 meters to 2.5 meters and an engine displacement of 1 liter to 1.6 liters. 2. A00-segment sedans: A00-segment sedans, or microcars, have a wheelbase between 2 meters and 2.35 meters, with an engine displacement of 1 liter or less.
I think the Mercedes-Benz CLA is actually firmly in the A-Class camp. As Mercedes' entry-level four-door coupe model, it's just over 4.6 meters long with a wheelbase of around 2.7 meters - dimensions similar to compact cars like the Volkswagen Golf. Look at its positioning too - it's nearly 100,000 yuan cheaper than Mercedes' C-Class models, and its powertrain options are mainstream compact car engines like the 1.3T and 2.0T. The platform makes it even more obvious - both the CLA and A-Class use the MFA front-wheel-drive platform with particularly high parts commonality. A friend who works at a dealership said they display the CLA alongside A-Class models in the showroom. That said, its fastback styling is much cooler than a regular A-Class, and the frameless doors look very premium. Nowadays many young buyers go for these entry-level luxury models - they get the badge while saving some money.