What is the CLA?
3 Answers
According to Mercedes-Benz's official introduction, the CLA is a compact four-door coupe, categorized as an A-segment vehicle. Its body dimensions are 4654*1777*1417mm, which aligns with the positioning of cars in this class. It features frameless doors and smooth body lines, making it popular among many young people. Additional information: 1. CLA's powertrain: The CLA offers a choice between a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The 1.6-liter low-power version delivers a maximum horsepower of 122 hp, while the high-power version produces 156 hp. The 2.0-liter low-power version has a maximum horsepower of 184 hp, and the high-power version reaches 211 hp. 3. CLA's transmission: In terms of transmission, the CLA is equipped with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission across all models. 4. CLA's drivetrain: For drivetrain options, the CLA is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. 5. CLA's suspension: Regarding suspension, the CLA features a McPherson strut independent front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension.
I was immediately captivated by the design of the CLA when I first researched it. As Mercedes-Benz's entry-level luxury compact car series launched in 2013, it inherits the brand's four-door coupe styling with an exceptionally handsome streamlined body. My friends and I agree that the CLA's most appealing feature is its sporty exterior – elements like the shark-nose front grille and fastback design turn heads on the road. Priced accessibly with base models around 300,000 RMB, it's within reach for young buyers. The interior features Mercedes' latest MBUX system with a dazzling central display and ambient lighting controls. However, space is somewhat limited with a 470-liter trunk, slightly restrictive compared to the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. Maintenance costs are notable, potentially running several thousand annually. Overall, it's perfect for style-conscious drivers who prioritize fashion over spaciousness, offering precise handling suitable for both city commutes and short road trips.
I've been driving the CLA for two years now, and as a working professional, it's quite practical. It's a compact model in the Mercedes-Benz family, with a starting price around 300,000 RMB. The first generation was launched in 2013, and now it has been upgraded to the new generation. The driving experience is smooth, especially in city traffic jams—the 2.0T engine responds quickly, and fuel consumption is kept at around 7L. The interior is luxurious, with well-supported seats that make long drives comfortable. However, the downside is the cramped rear space; after installing a child seat, taller passengers may feel a bit squeezed. In terms of reliability, I maintain it regularly with few issues, though I did encounter a minor wiper malfunction that was fixed after replacement. The safety features are ample, like active braking and blind-spot monitoring, which make nighttime highway driving very reassuring. Compared to competitors like the Audi A3 Sportback, the CLA has a more sporty vibe and offers great value for money. I recommend it for young families or singles—it's also easy to park.
