Mercedes CLA 250: A Detailed Review

The Mercedes-Benz CLA, particularly the CLA 250 variant, presents a captivating proposition in the premium compact segment. Built upon the underpinnings of the A-Class hatchback, it skilfully adopts the persona of a four-door 'coupe' and, in its Shooting Brake guise, a sleek estate. This blend of compact dimensions, undeniable class, and attractive styling offers an accessible route to owning a slice of German automotive prestige. But how does it truly stack up? Let's delve into the specifics of what makes the CLA 250 tick.

Design & Exterior: Strikingly Aerodynamic Appeal

The exterior design of the CLA is undoubtedly its strongest suit, earning it a commendable 8/10 rating. From most angles, the four-door coupe variant is simply gorgeous. Mercedes has done an admirable job of differentiating it from the A-Class hatchback, primarily through a larger, more aggressive grille and distinct lighting. This gives the car a sporty, purposeful stance. However, from certain rear three-quarter angles, the A-Class heritage can be subtly detected, a consequence of the integrated boot on what was originally a hatchback platform.

The CLA Shooting Brake, on the other hand, presents a more cohesive visual narrative. Its elongated roofline allows the design to flow more harmoniously, making it, for many, the more aesthetically pleasing option. The core appeal of the CLA lies in its dramatic, sleeker, and sportier styling, designed to evoke desire. While driving dynamics might be comparable to the A-Class hatch, the CLA's visual presence is its primary differentiator.

Did you know? Mercedes-Benz claims that the CLA boasts the most aerodynamically efficient body of any production car currently available. This focus on slipperiness contributes to its performance and fuel economy.

Interior & Comfort: A Mixed Bag

The interior of the CLA, largely shared with the A-Class, garners a 6/10 rating, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. The front seats are genuinely comfortable, and the cabin generally exudes a sense of good quality, with a tidy design. The ubiquitous Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star dotted around the cabin adds to the premium feel. However, the experience can be somewhat polarizing. Opt for a more basic specification, and the cabin can feel a tad spartan. Conversely, excessive option spending can lead to an interior that veers towards gaudy, with certain optional features, like the white-faced instrument dials, being particularly questionable in both appearance and perceived quality.

Practicality: Compact, But Not Generous

As a compact, stylish coupe, outright practicality isn't the CLA's primary objective, and this is reflected in its 6/10 score for interior space. Rear seat accommodation is adequate at best; adults will fit, but taller individuals might find longer journeys somewhat restrictive. The boot capacity of 470 litres is respectable within its class, outdoing rivals like the Volkswagen Scirocco or BMW 2 Series Coupe. However, the CLA Shooting Brake, despite its estate car silhouette, offers only an additional 25 litres of space. Furthermore, it suffers from an annoyingly high loading lip and a narrow, tapered hatch opening, making the loading of larger items a challenging affair.

Technology & Connectivity: Feature-Rich, But Integrated Clunkily

The technology suite in the CLA is fairly comprehensive, earning a 7/10. All models come equipped with 'Mercedes me' connect services, including an on-board diagnostics system that can alert you and your dealer to potential engine issues. A parking time assistant is also included. For a more advanced experience, the Mercedes me Remote Online services pack offers smartphone app control for locking/unlocking, 'geofencing' to set driving boundaries, a vehicle tracker, and trip data. The Comand Online system provides 3D satellite navigation, live traffic updates, voice control, and integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While optional DAB radio and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system are available, the prominent eight-inch central screen, perched atop the dashboard like an afterthought, detracts slightly from the overall aesthetic integration.

Performance & Handling: Refined, With Caveats

The performance and handling of the CLA are rated at 7/10, with the caveat that specification plays a significant role. A well-specced CLA, particularly one with the standard 18-inch wheels and suspension, offers a well-balanced driving experience. While its front-wheel-drive layout limits outright driving fun compared to rear-wheel-drive rivals, it delivers a commendable level of refinement. The steering is meaty and well-weighted, offering decent feedback. The optional 4Matic all-wheel-drive system enhances traction, especially on slippery surfaces.

However, this refined experience can be significantly compromised by opting for larger 19-inch alloy wheels combined with the lowered sports suspension. This combination can render the ride unyieldingly firm, bordering on harsh.

Engine options provide a good range. The entry-level 1.6-litre turbo CLA 180 petrol offers a respectable 0-62mph time of 8.4 seconds. The 2.0-litre turbo CLA 250, with its 218hp output, achieves the same sprint in a brisk 6.3 seconds, positioning it as a more potent, near-AMG model. The diesel offerings include the 136hp 2.1-litre CLA 200 d (0-62mph in 9.1 seconds) and the more spirited 177hp CLA 220 d (0-62mph in 7.7 seconds). While the smaller petrol engine suffices for lower mileage drivers, the larger diesel engines offer more potent performance for those covering significant distances, albeit with a noticeable increase in noise.

The optional 7G-tronic automatic transmission is a worthwhile addition, not only freeing up interior space by relocating the gear selector to the steering column but also eliminating the somewhat awkward reverse gear selection of the manual gearbox.

Safety Features: A Fortified Sanctuary

Mercedes-Benz has a stellar reputation for safety, and the CLA lives up to it, achieving an impressive 9/10. Tested by Euro NCAP in 2013, it secured a full five-star rating, with high scores for adult occupant protection (91%), child protection (75%), pedestrian protection (74%), and safety assist systems (81%). Standard safety equipment includes electronic stability control, brake assist, emergency post-crash lighting, dusk-sensing headlights, automatic child seat recognition, ISOFIX points, and a tyre pressure monitor.

Optional safety enhancements are extensive, including the Pre-Safe system, which can detect imminent collisions and prepare the car by pre-tensioning seatbelts and adjusting seats. Further available features include autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot detection, a driver attention monitor, hill-hold brakes with wet-wiping functionality, and active high-beam LED headlights.

Specs and Trim Levels: Customisation Galore

The CLA is offered in two primary trim levels: Sport and AMG-Line, with a special WhiteArt edition also available. The Sport trim includes 18-inch alloy wheels, 'Comfort' suspension, Dynamic Select driving modes, parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, a multi-function steering wheel, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, a seven-inch infotainment display, cruise control, keyless ignition, Apple CarPlay, half-leather upholstery (Artico man-made leather), and dual-zone climate control.

The AMG-Line enhances the Sport trim with upgraded 18-inch alloys, black exterior accents, a sportier grille, LED headlights, lowered suspension, privacy glass, and AMG interior styling cues. The WhiteArt edition features black 18-inch alloys, contrasting body stripes, part Artico leather seats, and an Artico leather-trimmed dashboard.

It's crucial to note the extensive and often expensive options list. For a balanced approach, consider the Sport trim with the larger infotainment screen, Comand services, Lane Tracking and Driver Assistance packages, heated seats, and LED headlights.

Running Costs & Fuel Economy: Efficient Options Available

Running costs and fuel economy are generally positive, earning an 8/10. The CLA 180 petrol is surprisingly efficient, achieving an average of 50.4mpg with CO2 emissions of 124g/km. The CLA 250, while more potent, sees its fuel economy drop to around 40mpg in the best-case scenario, with higher CO2 emissions. The diesel variants, the CLA 200 d and CLA 220 d, are paragons of parsimony, offering quoted figures of 68.9mpg and 68.3mpg respectively, with low CO2 emissions of 106g/km and 108g/km. Opting for the automatic gearbox generally enhances fuel efficiency across all engine variants.

Reliability and Servicing

While Mercedes-Benz is renowned for quality, the CLA has faced several recalls concerning potential oil leaks, engine shutdowns, faulty airbags, engine failures, fire risks, power steering loss, stalling, and collapsing rear seatbacks. These issues may cast a shadow over the brand's perceived reliability.

Scheduled maintenance typically involves a minor inspection every 10,000 miles or one year, and a major inspection every 20,000 miles or two years.

Pricing: Premium Proposition

The pricing of the CLA starts around £26,000 for a basic coupe in Sport spec, which offers a considerable amount of style for the money. The CLA 250 commands a higher entry price of approximately £33,000, reflecting its enhanced performance. Diesel models begin around £28,000 for the CLA 200 d and £31,000 for the CLA 220 d. Optional 4Matic all-wheel drive adds around £900, while the 7G-tronic automatic transmission is an approximately £1,500 upgrade. As with most premium German vehicles, careful consideration of the options list is essential to manage the final price.

Recommendations

• Tech Enthusiast: AMG-Line models offer enhanced technology for a superior infotainment experience.
• Company Car Driver: The CLA 200 d, with its low emissions, presents an affordable alternative to a C-Class.
• Car Enthusiast: The CLA 250, with its potent performance and AMG styling, delivers genuine driver appeal.

Key Rivals

• Audi A3 Saloon: Less visually striking but more practical and equally smart.
• BMW 2 Series Coupe: Offers immense driving pleasure but with plainer styling and fewer doors.
• Lexus CT 200h: Tempting for business users due to its hybrid powertrain, but cramped and less engaging to drive.
• Mini Cooper: Even more compact than the CLA, but offers significant driving fun. The Clubman estate variant adds practicality.
• Volkswagen Golf GTI: Remains a benchmark for driving dynamics and offers better value for money.

What Others Say

• What Car?: "The Mercedes CLA is intended to offer buyers a hint of the design flair that originally made the larger CLS popular, but at a significantly lower price point."
• Car Buyer: "If you want a small four-door saloon and sleek looks are more of a priority than comfort or practicality, the Mercedes CLA fits the bill nicely."

In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 is a car that prioritises style and desirability. While it may not be the most practical or spacious option in its class, its striking design, comfortable front seats, and strong safety credentials make it a compelling choice for those seeking a premium compact with a distinct visual flair. Just be mindful of the options list and suspension choices to ensure the best possible ownership experience.

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