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MERCEDES-BENZ CLA COUPE CLA 180 Sport Edition 4dr Tip Auto

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Key Features

android-auto
Android auto
apple-carplay
Apple carplay
climate-control
Climate control
cruise-control
Cruise control
lumbar-support
Lumbar support
parking-aid
Parking aid
rear-camera
Rear camera
sat-nav
Sat nav
touchscreen
Touchscreen

The Mercedes CLA is a very different proposition in third generation form. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Ten Second Review

Once a niche Mercedes compact model, the CLA has gone mainstream in this impressively advanced third generation form. It's still a streamlined small saloon (or estate), but now comes with a very efficient pair of propulsion options - full-Hybrid or full-EV.

Background

Welcome to a new kind of small Mercedes-Benz; this car, the third generation CLA. First launched back in 2013, with a second generation version following in 2019, the CLA model line has turned out to be both popular and profitable for the Stuttgart maker. Which perhaps was what prompted the brand to use this third generation version, announced in early 2025, as the launch pad for a whole new generation of electrified technology. Gone are the combustion petrol, diesel and PHEV units of the MK2 design. In their place, we've got an all-new 1.5-litre full-Hybrid; or a full-EV powertrain so efficient that from launch, it positioned the most frugal version of the CLA as Europe's longest-ranging and most efficient electric car. There's also one of the most slippery body shapes ever made in this segment. And the cabin that truly democratises luxury sector technology. Let's take a closer look.

Engines and Tech Spec

There are plenty of headlines here. A self charging full-Hybrid engine at last in a compact Mercedes, mated to an equally new 8-speed eDCT auto gearbox. And the biggest headline of all, an EV version offering what at the time of this model's launch was the longest range from any European market electric car. Mercedes makes no apology for the fact that the Hybrid CLA had to fit very much into the design parameters of the EV; this petrol version's 1.5-litre engine was specifically created to fit into the same front-end space as the EV's front motor. This four cylinder unit seems uncompromised as a result though, assisted by a little 1.3kWh battery energised by a 27bhp electric motor. These work together to send either 134bhp or 161bhp through the front wheels or, in the top 4MATIC version, 188bhp to all four wheels. Diesel-like economy is promised. What Mercedes really wants to talk about though, is the EV model, in volume form clumsily named the 'CLA 250+ with EQ Technology'. There's nothing clumsy about the technology on offer here though, based around an 85kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery said to be capable of taking the car up to 492 miles between charges. Lots of clever engineering lies behind that attention-grabbing stat, a 268bhp front-mounted motor working with a Porsche Taycan-like two-speed gearbox, rather than the usual single-speed EV transmission. The idea is that this provides a short first ratio for quick launches and extra efficiency at town speeds; and a much longer second ratio to improve consumption at a cruise. 0-62mph takes 6.7s on the way to 130mph. As you'd expect, the brand also offers a twin motor EV model, the 'CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology'. This gets an extra 107bhp motor with a single-speed gearbox on its front axle, giving a combined output of 349bhp, which cuts the 0-62mph sprint time to just 4.9s. Range remains impressive at 478 miles. For the future, there'll be an entry-level 58kWh CLA EV with a lower price but less advanced LFP lithium-ion-phosphate cells and a shorter range (expect about 300 miles). And a flagship Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4MATIC+ EV with a pair of Yasa-developed axial flux motors developing over 500bhp.

Design and Build

Prior to this car's introduction, Mercedes had always created entirely bespoke EV models to sit alongside their combustion counterparts. But that policy changes with this third generation CLA, which apart from front grille and badging differences, looks near-identical in either EV or Hybrid forms. Previous generation CLAs championed futuristic styling over generally mundane mechanicals. Here, if anything, it's the other way round. The sleek design is smart but unremarkable and, as previously, can be had either as a four-door coupe (read 'small saloon') or in 'Shooting Brake' form (reads 'small estate'). Previous models were cramped and claustrophobic in the back, so Mercedes has made this MK3 35mm longer, 25mm wider and 29mm taller than its predecessor; and added a standard-fit panoramic glass roof. There are some nice detail touches - like the three-pointed stars in the headlights and tail lamps. And the EV versions front grille is illuminated with a 142 individual LEDs. The silhouette is super-slippery, its drag coefficient an impressive 0.21Cd. Inside at the wheel, you're faced with a huge full-width panel that incorporates a 10.25-inch driver instrument cluster and a 14-inch central infotainment display. In this panel's full (optional) 'Superscreen' form, there's a further 14-inch passenger-side display on which your fellow traveller can watch films, go online or set navigation destinations. With the standard set-up, this passenger screen is replaced by a glass panel with LED back-lit star logos which match the ambient lighting. Media connectivity is of course cutting-edge; there's the brand's very latest MB.OS software, with Virtual Assistant voice control using generative AI and Google Maps built-in. What else? Quality has taken a step up and the style of the seats and steering wheel champion a sporty vibe, particularly if you select one of the more exuberant cabin colour choices. That bigger body (with its 2,790mm-long wheelbase) will noticeably improve rear seat space. But disappointingly, boot capacity has fallen substantially - from 462 to 405-litres. Though in the EV version, that won't matter so much because you'll also have a 101-litre under-bonnet 'frunk', the first Mercedes has ever offered.

Market and Model

Expect CLA pricing this time round to sit in the £40,000-£55,000 bracket. The big news here is that in a push for parity, Mercedes is trying to price the EV CLA on a par with the Hybrid version. This is apparently thanks to cost savings of around 30% in battery production, bringing the EV's overall price down by around 15%. As usual with Mercedes sporty models, expect a choice of various kinds of 'AMG Line' trim. There's an awful lot of new technology included here. Take MBUX Surround Navigation for instance, which the brand describes as a feature that 'seamlessly integrates the driver assistance view with a 3D representation of the surroundings and route guidance in real time on the driver display'. Then there's the Virtual Assistant with its generative AI system, which uses ChatGPT and Microsoft Bing for internet searches for the questions you might ask it. Drive assist tech has also taken a step forward. All CLAs come with the brand's DISTRONIC Distance Assist and there's the option of the company's latest 'MB.DRIVE ASSIST' system. This complements Distance Assist DISTRONIC with Steering Assist, making it a state-of-the-art Level 2 driving assistance system. New in the CLA is Lane Change Assist, which facilitates lane changes with a simple click of the indicator lever. Standard safety features include active brake assist, lane keeping assist, speed limit warning, attention assist and a reversing camera.

Cost of Ownership

Proof that this CLA in EV form takes frugality onto the next level is delivered by a claimed efficiency figure for the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology model that manages to better 5.0mpkWh. Mercedes says that three keys to achieving that impressive stat include the slippery drag coefficient (0.21Cd), the advanced two-speed gearbox and a clever rear-mounted permanent magnet motor. The latter uses a new silicon carbide inverter that develops greater output from a smaller package, reducing weight. And the engineers claim its torque density's boosted by the magnets being inserted in an innovative double-V formation, concentrating their field. There's also a powerful regen braking system that can provide up to 200kW of stopping power off-throttle, helping to keep the battery topped up. And the 4MATIC EV model retains impressive range because its additional front motor is decoupled from the front axle when it isn't needed, reducing energy losses to friction by 90%. The carbon footprint of the new all-electric CLA is reduced by 40 percent over the entire value chain compared to its non-electrified predecessor. At the right public charging station, this third generation CLA can be DC rapid-charged at up to 320kW thanks to its adoption of an 800V electrical architecture. This enables 201 mile top up in just 10 minutes. What about the combustion Hybrid model? Well Mercedes claims that it can deliver 'diesel-level' efficiency (think over 50mpg in regular use), with a system that can provide several miles of engine-off propulsion. So much so that the brand has decided not to offer a Plug-in Hybrid derivative this time round. "We think Hybrid is the best combination we can offer for those who aren't completely ready for electric", says transmission engineer Jan Becker.

Summary

Previous generation CLA models were really more about fashion than function. This MK3 design still looks smart, but its priorities have shifted very firmly in favour of engineering technology. Here at last is a Hybrid really does deliver diesel standards of economy. And an EV that really does deliver a compact electric car with close to the operating range of petrol one. New standards have been set here and rivals will need to up their game to keep up. That being the case, it's a pity that this third generation CLA doesn't look quite as eye-catching as its predecessors once were. Because of that, this MK3 model won't necessarily bring a new kind of customer to Mercedes; just a cleverer one.

Body Glass
Electric windows
Variable front intermittent wipers
Heated glass rear windscreen + timer control
Rain sensing windscreen wipers with two sensitivity settings
Brakes
ESP curve dynamic assist
Active brake assist includes forward collision warning system with autonomous braking
Adaptive brake assist with hold function and hill start assist
Electric parking brake
Anti lock braking system (ABS) with brake assist
Electronic stability programme with acceleration skid control
Brake pad wear warning indicator
Carpets/Rugs
Velour floor mats
Chassis/Suspension
Comfort suspension
Communication
Radio aerial integrated into front and rear windshields
Hey Mercedes Voice activation
Bluetooth connection
Driver Aids
Active lane keeping assist
Attention assist - Monitors steering behaviour and long journey fatigue
Direct steer system
DYNAMIC SELECT with a choice of driving modes (ECO, Comfort, Sport and Individual)
Cruise control with limiter
Mercedes me remote services
Driver Convenience
ECO start/stop function
Car wash mode
Driver Information
Outside temperature gauge
Service indicator (Active Service System)
Speed limit assist
Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android auto
Hard-disk navigation
Lamp failure indicator
Mercedes me connect including emergency call system, accident recovery, breakdown management and maintenance
Fluid level warning indicator for fuel, oil, coolant and washer fluid
Trip computer in multifunction display with current consumption indicator
10.25 inch touchscreen central media display
Pre-installation of private car share
10.25 inch Instrument display with digital cockpit
Owners manual in English
Driving Mirrors
Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors with integrated LED indicators
Interior mirror with black reading lamps and frameless
Entertainment
DAB digital radio tuner
Pre installation for Mercedes Benz Link
Mercedes Benz sound system (100 W) with 6 speakers
MBUX multimedia system
Exterior Body Features
Chrome beltline strips
Exhaust system with 2 Visible tailpipe trim elements and rear apron with trim in chrome
Window line trim strip in chrome
Rear side wing doors
Rear boot
Body colour door handles (Chrome insert with Keyless entry)
Entry body styling - Including a radiator shell with Mercedes-Benz pattern in high-gloss black and single louvre in matt grey with chrome trim inserts
Debadging - Omission of model plate on boot lid
Exterior Lights
Rear fog lamp
Adaptive brake lights
LED tail lamp
Headlamp assist automatic headlamp activation
High level LED third brake light
LED high performance headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights and adaptive highbeam assist
Heating/Cooling/Ventilation
Air vents with surround in silver chrome
Air conditioning - One zone thermatic automatic climate control with automatically controlled air distribution
Interior Features
Twin front cupholders
Brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs
Front centre armrest with stowage
Artico man-made leather/Bertrix fabric upholstery
Manually height and reach adjustable steering column
Luggage net on driver/front passenger seat backrest
Stowage compartment in centre console with retractable cover
3 spoke ARTICO man made leather multi function sports steering wheel with black grained gearshift paddles,oeration via touch control panels
Fluorescent jacket
Crystal grey roof lining
Packs
Mirror pack - CLA
Seat comfort pack - CLA
Light and sight pack - CLA
Parking pack with reversing camera - CLA
USB package plus - CLA
Safety
Front passenger seat occupancy sensor
Black seat belts
Warning triangle and first aid kit
Tyre pressure monitoring system
Drivers knee airbag
Front and rear seatbelt reminder
Crash responsive emergency lighting
Three point rear seat belts
Childproof locks manually operated for rear doors and electrically operated for rear power windows
Driver and front passenger windowbags
Driver and front passenger head and sidebags
Active bonnet pedestrain safety measure which detects an impact and raises bonnet by 65mm
Dual stage driver and front passenger airbags
Bonnet with power domes
Seats
Comfort seats
Heated front seats
Rear head restraints
Front head restraints
3 seat bench in 2nd row
Automatic child seat recognition sensor
4 way lumbar support
40:20:40 split folding rear seats with backrest
Two outer rear seat isofix and top tether child seat fixing points
Single front passenger seat
Security
Remote central locking and crash sensor with emergency opening function
Alarm system with immobiliser and interior protection -Thatcham category 1
Guard 360 deg vehicle protection - tow away protection with visual, acoustic warning, interior monitoring, preinstallation for parking damage
Transmission
Rear axle multi-link
Vanity Mirrors
Sunvisors with illuminated vanity mirrors
Wheels
Summer tyres
Wheels - Alloy
17" 5 twin spoke light alloy wheels aerodynamically optimised painted in black with a high sheen finish
Wheels - Spare
Tirefit tyre sealant kit

Emissions - ICE
Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6
NOx: 0.017
HC+NOx: N
Particles: 0.0001
HC: 0.021
CO: 0.214
Noise Level dB(A): 68
WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 132
Engine and Drive Train
Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 81.2
Cylinders: 4
Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE
Number of Valves: 16
Camshaft: DOHC
Fuel Delivery: TURBO DIRECT INJECTION
Catalytic Convertor: No
Engine Layout: FRONT TRANSVERSE
Compression Ratio: 12.0:1
Transmission: SEMI-AUTO
Gears: 7 SPEED
CC: 1332
Cylinders - Bore (mm): 72.2
Fuel Consumption - ICE
WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low: 9
WLTP - MPG - Low: 31.4
WLTP - MPG - Medium: 49.6
WLTP - MPG - High: 57.7
WLTP - MPG - Extra High: 51.4
WLTP - MPG - Comb: 48.7
WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium: 5.7
WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High: 4.9
WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High: 5.5
EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0
WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 5.8
General
Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0
NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: 96
Special Edition: 0
Special Order: 0
Based On ID: N
Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 22E
Service Interval Mileage: 15500
Service Interval Frequency - Months: 12
Alternative Fuel Qualifying: No
NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: 91
NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: 91
NCAP Safety Assist %: 75
NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: 5
Badge Power: 136
Badge Engine CC: 1.3
Vehicle Homologation Class: M1
Generation Mark: 2
Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3
Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 999999
Coin Description: N
Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years: 3
Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years: 30
Coin Series: Sport Edition
Performance
Engine Power - BHP: 136
0 to 62 mph (secs): 9.4
Engine Power - KW: 100
Engine Power - PS: No
Top Speed: 134
Engine Power - RPM: 5500
Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 170
Engine Torque - NM: 230
Engine Torque - RPM: 1660
0 to 60 mph (secs): 0
Engine Torque - MKG: 23.5
Test Cycles
RDE Certification Level: RDE 2
Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP
Tyres
Space Saver?: 0
Alloys?: No
Tyre Size Rear: 205/55 R17
Wheel Style: TWIN SPOKE
Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT
Wheel Type: 17" ALLOY
Tyre Size Front: 205/55 R17
Vehicle Dimensions
Height: 1427
Wheelbase: 2729
Width (including mirrors): 1999
Height (including roof rails): N
Width: 1830
Length: 4688
Weight and Capacities
Gross Vehicle Weight: 1995
Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 1400
Minimum Kerbweight: 1505
Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 43
Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750
Max. Loading Weight: 490
Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 440
No. of Seats: 5
Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 11.1
Max. Roof Load: 100

Exterior Body Features
Metallic paint
Manufaktur metallic paint
Paint - Metallic
Metallic - Cosmos black
Metallic - Mountain grey
Metallic - High tech silver
Metallic - Spectral blue
Paint - Solid
Solid - Polar white
Solid - Night black
Paint - Special
Manufaktur metallic - Patagonia red
Trim - Part Leather
Artico man-made leather/Bertrix fabric - Black
The equipment and technical data above is provided by a third party and FVL cannot be held responsible for any errors. Please check any details important to you with one of our leasing experts, or directly with the manufacturer.

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Performance stats

Top speed: 134 mph 200
9.4
0 to 62 mph (secs)
48.7
Fuel Consumption
136
Power (BHP)
23E
Insurance Group

Price History

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