German carmakers continue their quest to
fill every market niche possible, and Mercedes-Benz has plugged another gap
with its new CLA. What is this new four-door exactly? From the front, it looks
like another A-Class, but further back, its flanks take their own sleek,
swooping profile while the roofline flows 'coupe-like' down into the sculptured
rear end. To the uneducated, it's an A-Class sedan, but according to M-B, it's
a unique model line, a baby CLS if you like, and the car maker is touting it as
a genuine C-Class alternative. It's another product tasked with changing the
perception of the brand, and another 'more affordable' model for those who
aspire to the three-pointed star but don't quite have the traditional
wherewithal.
The
CLA 200 is likely to prove popular thanks to its flexible nature
The CLA shoots higher than the A-Class
however. Where the latter models start at under $50k, the CLA is a $65k-plus
affair. As such, the model line-up is different, starting with the $65,900 CLA
200, moving up to the 250 at $77,490 with the $107,990 A 45 AMG at the top,
making for a diesel-free range.
Styling aside, it is based on the new
A-Class chassis, meaning same engines, seven-speed twin-clutch and front-drive
layout. The CLA sits on the same 2,699mm wheelbase, and is similar in height
and width but with its elongated tail is 338mm longer at 4,630mm. Those extra
millimetres contribute to its slippery form which, with a stated Cd figure of
0.23, has Merc claiming the CLA to be the most aerodynamic production car on
sale today. It also nets it some handy luggage space, the CLA rated to carry
470L in a reasonably useful boot, and extra versatility comes with a 40/ 60
split folding rear seat. Stylish car designs usually come at some cost, and for
the CLA, that's rear head space. Watch your head on entry too, as the sloping
roofline can be a headache. The back seat is described as a 2+ 1 affair. Cosy,
in other words.
The
driving position is a little high, and space is at a premium for large adults
Up front, the CLA 200 is better equipped
than the equivalent A-Class. It uses the same 1.6-litre 115kW/250Nm turbopetrol
powertrain. The 200 features sat nav, dual-zone climate control, sports pews
trimmed in Merc's faux leather, and offers more connectivity options, while the
exterior benefits from the diamond grille treatment, 18-inch wheels and active
park assist. Safety equipment includes nine air bags, stability control and
Mercedes-Benz's collision warning and blind spot avoidance systems, among
others. There are plenty of options to choose from too, including infotainment
and safety upgrades, styling kits and, if you are quick, an Edition One option.
This consists of a limited production run of CLS 200s which come with extra
specification and AMG styling bits for an additional $4,900. This offer is
available until December.
The A250 Sport is AMG engineered,
benefitting from the usual sporty tune ups to the chassis, styling and
interior. Its 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine outputs 155kW and 350Nm but it
doesn't dot down here until February next year. If you want even more power,
the fully-equipped A 45 is the one with 265kW, 450Nm and AWD.
The
rear is only really suitable for smaller occupants; the low roofline makes
access difficult for taller people
We sampled the CLA 200 and found it drove
remarkably like the A-Class, but with a little extra stability, particularly at
the rear. There's enough grip, poise and tum in to keep most happy, while the
turbo-bred torque ensures a comfortable pace without the need to murder the
mechanicals. Merc's twin-clutch gearbox does an adequate job, although it isn't
the best of the breed, being a touch slow on the gearchanges for our liking. We
also had a chance to try the sports suspension but the jiggly ride just doesn't
suit the 200's refined character.
The CLA is one of those cars that looks
more expensive than it is, and with that big Merc badge on the grille, it's
sure to hook yet more sales for the brand.
