In a significant leap towards the electric and digital future, Mercedes-Benz recently unveiled the Concept CLA Coupe. This groundbreaking vehicle provides a sneak peek into the upcoming family of entry-level electric vehicles, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Let’s delve into the remarkable features and advanced technology that make the Concept CLA Coupe a trailblazer in the automotive landscape.

A Glimpse into the Electric Future: The Concept CLA Coupe transcends the traditional concept car label, serving as the harbinger of an all-electric segment for Mercedes-Benz. This family of vehicles, driven by the aspirations of a new generation of car buyers, promises the distinctive Mercedes-Benz luxury experience with heightened features, unparalleled comfort, and cutting-edge technology. Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, underscores the vehicle’s role in realizing the company’s Ambition 2039 – achieving net carbon neutrality across its fleet by 2039.

Innovative Modular Architecture: Crafted on the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) platform, the Concept CLA Coupe embodies iconic design and dynamic performance. This electric-first architecture is engineered to accommodate a family of four vehicles with diverse body styles, playing a pivotal role in accelerating Mercedes-Benz’s electric fleet ramp-up. Upholding the stringent Mercedes-Benz “real life safety” philosophy, all vehicles on the MMA platform prioritize safety without compromising on innovation.

Technological Marvels: At the heart of the Concept CLA Coupe lies the next-generation electric-drive system on the MMA platform, targeting an impressive range of over 750 kilometers (466 miles) in the WLTP. The vehicle introduces the new operating system “MB.OS,” delivering an unmatched user interface and experience (UI/UX) through the MBUX Superscreen. Derived from the display technology seen in the VISION EQXX, this system offers advanced real-time graphics and an immersive digital experience.

Sustainability in Design: Beyond performance and technology, the Concept CLA Coupe places a strong emphasis on sustainability. The vehicle integrates sustainable materials throughout its structure and interior, including nearly CO₂-free steel, CO₂-reduced aluminum, and environmentally conscious leather upholstery. This commitment aligns with the growing global demand for eco-friendly automotive solutions.

A Visionary Approach: Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and Chief Technology Officer, emphasizes that the technology behind the Concept CLA Coupe represents a transformative shift for Mercedes-Benz. Drawing insights from the VISION EQXX technology program, engineers have optimized efficiency, incorporated innovative battery cell chemistry, and achieved outstanding energy density in the 800 V electric-drive system.

The Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA Coupe marks a significant stride towards a new era of electric mobility. With its revolutionary design, advanced technology, and unwavering commitment to sustainability, the Concept CLA Coupe stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to reshaping the automotive landscape. As the automotive industry evolves, this innovative vehicle paves the way for a future where performance, sustainability, safety, and digital experiences seamlessly coalesce in the realm of luxury electric vehicles.

With numerous innovations and upgraded standard equipment, Mercedes-Benz is strengthening the position of the CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake as trendsetters in the compact segment. The newly shaped front apron, the revised radiator grille with star pattern and the new rear diffuser sharpen the sporty character. Added to this are the modernised graphics in the LED High Performance headlamps, which are standard for the first time, and the LED rear lights. The new paint colours hyper blue (exclusive to the CLA models) and spectral blue, as well as three additional wheel-rim designs in sizes up to 19 inches, extend the choice for individualisation. As standard, the new CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake models are fitted with 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels in vanadium silver or a five-double-spoke design in high-gloss black with high-sheen finish.

Exclusive interior with high-tech look, fresh colours and new trims

The highlight of the interior is the free-standing double screen. It now includes a 7-inch and a 10.25-inch display as standard. Two 10.25-inch displays with a wide-screen look are optionally available. They offer a holistic high-tech experience and create an exceptionally open spatial architecture. The steering wheel of the current generation is upholstered in leather Nappa as standard. Alternatively, the multifunction sports steering wheel is available in ARTICO man made leather for the first time. The new trim elements in a dark carbon look, open-pore brown lime wood or brown MICROCUT microfibre (AMG Line only) further enhance the interior. A heated steering wheel rim is also available in the AMG Line for the first time.

The comfort seats are also part of the new high-quality standard in the CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake. They are fitted as standard with a combination of ARTICO man-made leather and three-dimensionally embossed fabric in black. They are also optionally available in trendy sage grey. The Progressive equipment line offers three interior colours: black, macchiato beige and sage grey. In the AMG Line, the standard seat upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/microfibre MICROCUT is now also available in bahia brown. A total of five upholstery colours are available in the AMG Line: black, bahia brown, sage grey, titanium grey pearl/black and, for the first time, red pepper/black.

The fabric cover of the comfort seat consists of 100% recycled materials. In the ARTICO/MICROCUT seat cover, this proportion is 65% in the seat mirror and 85% in the bottom fabric. The use of recycled materials is an important measure on the way to CO₂ neutrality. As early as the end of this decade, Mercedes-Benz aims to at least halve the CO₂ emissions per passenger car in the new vehicle fleet over the entire life cycle compared to 2020. From 2039 onwards, the passenger car and van fleet aims to be CO₂-neutral with offsets across the entire automotive value chain.

Significantly upgraded equipment and simplified offer logic

Mercedes-Benz has significantly upgraded the standard equipment and tailored the offer logic even more precisely to specific customer wishes. For example, the basic equipment of the two new CLA models already includes Highbeam Assist, a reversing camera and the USB package in addition to the leather steering wheel and LED front headlamps. From vehicles equipped with the Progressive trim line onwards, customers also receive the Parking Package and Mirror Package as well as the EASY-PACK tailgate for the CLA Shooting Brake.

Other functional equipment is bundled into packages based on real customer behaviour. In terms of design scopes such as colours, upholstery, trims and wheels, customers can configure vehicles as individually as possible.

Latest generation MBUX and Burmester^® sound system with Dolby Atmos

The CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake feature the latest generation of MBUX – with newly designed display styles: “Classic” provides all relevant driver information, “Sporty” impresses with the dynamic rev counter and “Discreet” is limited to the most essential items. Together with the three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service) and seven colour worlds, the instrument cluster and central display can be individualised according to the driver’s wishes and the situation. The central display offers all previous functions such as navigation, media, phone, vehicle, etc. and can be operated conveniently as a touchscreen.

The revised telematics system impresses with a new design and improved performance. A new feature is connectivity with smartphones via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto Wireless. For further connectivity, the CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake have an additional USB-C port and increased USB charging capacity. All USB ports are now illuminated.

With the activation of online services in the Mercedes me app^[1], the Hey Mercedes voice assistant becomes even more capable of dialogue and learning. Certain actions can also be triggered without saying ”Hey Mercedes”. The MBUX voice assistant can also explain vehicle functions. Initially available in Germany, the new audio travel guide “Tourguide” adds an exciting feature to travel information as part of the “MBUX Voice Assistant” from Mercedes me. When the “Hey Mercedes, start Tourguide” voice command is given, the MBUX infotainment system reads out interesting facts about places of interest along the route. The system responds to the approximately 3,400 brown informational signs along the German motorways.

In conjunction with the latest MBUX generation, the optional Burmester^® surround sound system now features the immersive Dolby Atmos audio experience. It gives music more space, clarity and depth. Dolby Atmos allows discrete audio elements or objects to be placed in a three-dimensional sound field and adapted to any playback environment.

The new CLA models also improve in terms of safety assistance. With the upgraded Driver Assistance Package, for example, Lane Keeping Assist is controlled much more comfortably by the active steering control. The next generation of the Parking Package supports longitudinal parking and offers 360-degree visualisation for camera-assisted parking using 3D images.

Electrified and powerful drives

The petrol engines are electrified throughout and include four-cylinder units with a 7- or 8-speed DCT automatic transmission as standard. As mild hybrids, the engines are equipped with an additional 48-volt on‑board power supply that supports agility at start-up with 10 kW more power. The new belt-driven starter‑generator noticeably improves customer comfort and experience. For example, it enables low‑vibration and low-noise engine starting as well as coasting with the combustion engine switched off. During braking and acceleration, the starter-generator recuperates and thus supplies the 12-volt on-board network and the 48-volt battery with electrical energy. This can support the combustion engine during acceleration. The new ECO Score 3.0 motivates drivers to adopt fuel-saving behaviour through a differentiated evaluation of the various driving phases.

More power for plug-in hybrids

Another big step is taken by the new CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake models with plug-in hybrid drive (Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 e Coupé: fuel consumption combined, weighted (WLTP preliminary): 1.1‑0.8 l/100 km, electricity consumption combined, weighted (WLTP preliminary): 16.9-14.9 kWh/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined, weighted (WLTP preliminary): 24-18 g/km; Mercedes‑Benz CLA 250 e Shooting Brake: fuel consumption combined, weighted (WLTP preliminary): 1.1‑0.8 l/100 km, electricity consumption combined, weighted (WLTP preliminary): 17.2-15.1 kWh/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined, weighted (WLTP preliminary): 26-19 g/km)^[2]. The improved high-voltage battery offers a higher usable energy content, resulting in greater electric range. The power of the electric motor has increased by 5 kW and now reaches a powertrain output of 80 kW. For charging, three options are still available: in addition to the 3.7 kW standard, the battery can now also be charged with alternating current and up to 11 kW instead of the previous 7.4 kW. The new CLA models also continue to offer the option of charging the battery with direct current, and up to 22 kW. A DC charge from 10% to 80% takes around 25 minutes^[3], providing a versatile charging experience suitable for everyday use.
The engines at a glance^[4]

^[1]To use the Mercedes me connect services, you must create a Mercedes me ID and accept the Terms of Use for the Mercedes me connect services. The services shown and their availability and functionalities depend in particular on the vehicle model, year of manufacture, selected special equipment and country.
^[2] Data on fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, power consumption and range are provisional and have been determined internally in accordance with the ”WLTP test procedure” certification method. To date, there are neither confirmed values from an officially recognised testing organisation nor an EC type approval nor a certificate of conformity with official values. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.
^[3] Supply voltage 400 V, current at least 300 A
^[4] Data on fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, power consumption and range are provisional and have been determined internally in accordance with the ”WLTP test procedure” certification method. To date, there are neither confirmed values from an officially recognised testing organisation nor an EC type approval nor a certificate of conformity with official values. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.

Update for CLA and CLA Shooting Brake from Mercedes-AMG

• Newly designed headlights and taillights
• CLA 35 4MATIC with AMG-specific radiator grille
• AMG Performance steering wheel as standard
• Belt-driven starter-generator and 48-volt electrical system for CLA 35 4MATIC
• AMG Street Style Edition for CLA 45 S 4MATIC+

Numerous updates make the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake from Mercedes-AMG even more desirable. The new exterior design is particularly striking on the CLA 35 4MATIC Coupé (WLTP preliminary values: fuel consumption combined: 8.5-8.1 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 193-185 g/km)^[5] and CLA 35 4MATIC Shooting Brake (WLTP preliminary values: fuel consumption combined: 8.7-8.3 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 197-189 g/km)⁵. Both entry-level models have been given an AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical slats, a reshaped front apron and a round badge with the AMG emblem that reinforces the brand affiliation. The revised design of the inside of the headlights with LED or MULTIBEAM LED technology and the LED taillights also characterise the two top models CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Coupé (WLTP preliminary values: fuel consumption combined: 9.0-8.7 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined 205-196 g/km)⁵ and CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Shooting Brake (WLTP preliminary values: fuel consumption combined: 9.2-8.8 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 209-201 g/km)⁵.

New alloy wheels for all models

There are three new light-alloy wheels for the 35 models: standard 10-spoke, 18-inch wheels in black with high-gloss turned surfaces and optional 19-inch wheels with a five-twin-spoke design in matte black with high-gloss turned surfaces or in matte black with a high-gloss turned rim flange. New wheels for the two 45 S versions include standard 19-inch wheels with a five-twin-spoke design in matte black with high-gloss turned surfaces or optional 19-inch wheels in a five-twin-spoke design in matte black with a high-gloss turned rim flange.

Fresh colours for the seat covers

In the interior, those interested will discover new upholstery covers for the standard sports seats or the optional AMG Performance seats. The combination of ARTICO man-made leather with MICROCUT microfibre can also be ordered in bahia brown. Sage grey/black is the new colour for ARTICO man-made leather. And red pepper/black is available for the first time for the leather seat covers. For the trim elements, open-pore lime wood in brown completes the optional selection.

The Mercedes-AMG CLA models offer the new AMG Performance steering wheel with double-spoke design and seamlessly integrated buttons as standard. The AMG steering wheel buttons impress with brilliant displays and intuitive operating logic. These allow for important driving functions and all drive programmes to be controlled without taking your hands off the steering wheel.

The new Mercedes-AMG CLA models also benefit from the latest MBUX generation: more performance and the AMG-specific screen design make the brand experience tangible.

35 models technically upgraded

The 35 models are equipped with a 48-volt electrical system and a belt-driven starter-generator. The second-generation starter-generator acts as a mild hybrid, providing a temporary power boost of 10 kW (14 hp) as well as functions such as coasting and recuperation for greater efficiency. The 48-volt technology also increases comfort, as the transitions of the start-stop and coasting functions are almost imperceptible. The powerful and agile 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine produces 225 kW (306 hp), which is variably distributed to all four wheels via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The sporty performance (acceleration 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds) is combined with a wide range of driving experiences – from very sporty to long-distance comfort. The new front radiator improves temperature management at the limit.

AMG Street Style Edition for the 45 models

A special limited edition is available for the CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Coupé and Shooting Brake: the AMG Street Style Edition. With its MANUFAKTUR mountain grey magno paintwork and side foiling with the AMG logo and AMG pattern in the chequered-flag design, it emphasises the sporty appearance. The same applies to the colour accents in fluorescent orange. The edition rolls on 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a five-twin-spoke design in matte black with a gloss-turned rim flange. Optionally, customers can order the Street Style Edition with 19-inch AMG forged wheels in a cross-spoke design, painted matte black and with a high-sheen turned rim flange. The red-painted brake callipers form an attractive contrast to both wheels. Other exterior elements include the AMG Aerodynamics package, the AMG Night package I and II and the AMG fuel-filler cap.

The interior of the AMG Street Style Edition also has a distinctive design: The AMG Performance seat in black MICROCUT microfibre is adorned with seams and highlights in bright orange. The “CLA 45 S” label, also in orange, carries the brand emblem over to the interior. The AMG Performance steering wheel in MICROCUT leather/microfibre and the AMG trim elements in aluminium (with the same pattern as the exterior foiling) add further accents to the interior. Attention to detail is also demonstrated by the instrument panel with contrasting orange stitching and the AMG door-sill trims with “AMG” lettering, a black interchangeable cover and Edition-specific lighting in red. AMG floor mats with “Street Style Edition” lettering and orange stitching complete the high-quality interior design.

With an output of 310 kW (421 hp), the Coupé and Shooting Brake are powerfully motorised. The compact sports cars accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds. The top speed is limited to 270 km/h. In addition to the pure performance figures, the AMG 2.0-litre turbo engine impresses with its spontaneous response. The fully variable all-wheel drive with AMG TORQUE CONTROL makes a significant contribution to the dynamic driving experience. The rear-axle transmission contains two electronically controlled multi-plate clutches, each of which is connected to a driveshaft on the rear axle. This allows the drive power to be distributed variably not only between the front and rear axles, but also wheel-selectively between the left and right rear wheels.

The data at a glance

^[5]Data on fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are provisional and have been determined internally in accordance with the ”WLTP test procedure” certification method. To date, there are neither confirmed values from an officially recognised testing organisation nor an EC type approval nor a certificate of conformity with official values. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.
^[6] Data on fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are provisional and have been determined internally in accordance with the ”WLTP test procedure” certification method. To date, there are neither confirmed values from an officially recognised testing organisation nor an EC type approval nor a certificate of conformity with official values. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.

The new Mercedes-Benz CLA is well on its way to establishing a new segment, leading the way with it’s aerodynamic body (Cd value of 0.22 for the BlueEFFICIENCY Edition), avant-garde coupé design and 4MATIC all-wheel drive (optional). As a four-door coupé it follows the design ideas of the CLS, a design concept which has initiated a fair share of imitators since its debut in 2003. The new CLA features a radar-based braking system (COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST) that comes standard and is able to warn drivers of an obstacle from a speed of only 4 mph and can initiate precision braking when the driver steps on the brake pedal.

“The resonance created by the Concept Style Coupé was overwhelming. By far the most frequent comment heard was: ‘please put this car into series production’ And that’s exactly what we’re doing now”, said Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. “The CLA is a car that does not confuse mid‑range with mediocrity. Its powerful design underscores the sporty side of the Mercedes-Benz brand.”

In keeping with its sporty positioning, the CLA is available with high-torque turbo engines rated at up to 155 kW (211 hp), sports suspension and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The technical highlights of this new design icon include a new world record in aerodynamics for series production automobiles (Cd value: 0.22) and numerous driving assistance systems, including the further-developed COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST.

This radar-based assistance system provides the possibly distracted driver with visual and acoustic warnings of identified obstacles and prepares the adaptive Brake Assist system for precision braking. Braking is initiated as soon as the driver steps emphatically on the brake pedal. When an impending danger of collision is identified, the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system calculates the precise braking force ideally needed to avoid an accident and makes the best possible use of any distance remaining. As a new feature, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST affords protection from typical rear-end collisions in dangerous traffic situations in the CLA from a speed of only 7 km/h (previously: above 30 km/h).

Five lines and packages which vary greatly in character are available to individualise the striking compact mid-range coupé (length/width/height: 4630/1777/1437 millimetres). In keeping with the digital lifestyle of the CLA’s social media-savvy target group, smartphones can additionally be fully integrated into the vehicle’s display and operating system.

The CLA Edition 1 will only be available for twelve months. Among the exclusive equipment features of this model, which can be powered by any of the engine versions, the NEON ART interior with leather upholstery and black DINAMICA microfibre with yellow contrasting topstitching is worthy of mention.

The style rebel: exterior design

Its breathtakingly sporty proportions and powerfully dynamic design idiom, with its interplay between concave and convex surfaces give this four-door coupé its unmistakable look.

The vehicle’s striking features include the bonnet embedded in the front end with powerdomes and the diamond radiator grille. The light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged in such a way as to create the characteristic “flare effect” for the daytime driving lights and indicators. This light signet defines the car’s energetic appearance and shapes a new Mercedes face.

Numerous details indicate that on a design level the CLA represents a further development of the modern classic Mercedes-Benz CLS. Three prominent lines give structure to the vehicle when viewed from the side: the front structural edge over the wings flows towards the rear end in a characteristic dropping line. Another, more sinewy line spans the shoulder muscle above the rear axle, while the third feature line extends in a sweeping curve from the front wheel towards the rear. Together, these lines lend depth and dynamism to the side profile.

The width-emphasizing rear end radiates power and athleticism, featuring an interplay between convex and concave surfaces and edges. The gently sloping roof contour and the pronounced, hallmark curvature of the rear window provide the CLA with a coupé-style character from the rear, too. The athletic impression from the rear results from the drawn-in C-pillars in conjunction with the shoulder muscle over the rear wheel arch linings. The tail lights are framed by the muscular lines of the shoulders which extend into the rear end, the horizontal orientation of the lights emphasizing the rear’s powerful and aesthetic breadth. The light functions feature an arrow-style arrangement.

A large panoramic sliding sunroof is optionally available. This sunroof consists of a fixed polycarbonate cover at the front, a moving element made of mineral crystal and side trims to match the glass look.

“Cool touch” effect: the interior

The exterior’s progressive, sporty appearance is continued inside the vehicle. The interior additionally derives a very special quality feel from the design idiom, the selection of high-quality materials and the available combinations of materials. All trim surfaces are galvanised, resulting in a metallic finish.

The instrument panel incorporates five round vents. The outer rings of the round vents have a high-quality electroplated finish. The airflow direction is governed by a galvanised insert that reveals a meticulous attention to detail. The free-standing display screen features a black piano-lacquer-look front panel and, in combination with COMAND Online a flush-fitting silver frame.

The CLA is fitted with integral seats in the front and rear, underscoring its sporty character. The rear bench seat emphasises the outer seats (2+1‑seater). Coloured contrasting stitching is available, according to the selected interior appointment options. A fibre-optic cable in the opening between head restraint and backrest is optionally available as part of the ambient lighting.

Sleek as they come: new record Cd value

With a Cd value of 0.23, the CLA sets a new benchmark – both within the Mercedes-Benz model range and among all production vehicles. The drag area, Cd x A – which is crucial to consumption at speeds above 60 km/h – also leads the field, at 0.51 m². The CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition, which is due to hit the streets in June and can be ordered now, even manages to better these top values with its Cd figure of 0.22, and when it comes to the drag area, Cd x A, the four-door coupé crosses a magical line: it is just 0.49 m2.

The good air flow characteristics, which are a major contributory factor to the vehicle’s low fuel consumption in everyday conditions, result from numerous aerodynamic optimisation measures. These include a low A-pillar shoulder with adapted A-pillar geometry, aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors, streamlined rear section, wheels designed for low aerodynamic drag and serrated wheel spoilers on the front and rear wheel arches.

Extensive underbody panelling, additional panelling in the middle area of the rear axle and an aerodynamically optimised rear silencer followed by a diffuser improve the flow of air under the underbody.

When it comes to aeroacoustics too, i.e. noise level comfort, the four-door coupé is also at the top of its game.

Smart safety: advanced assistance systems

Numerous driving assistance systems offer support in the CLA and reduce the driver’s workload. Standard-fit features for the coupé include ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST with adaptive Brake Assist, which now helps to protect the CLA from collisions from a speed of only 7 km/h (previously: above 30 km/h).

This feature combines with DISTRONIC PLUS to become COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, incorporating an additional function: when a danger of collision persists and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 200 km/h, thereby reducing the severity of collisions with slow or stationary vehicles. The system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles at a speed of up to 30 km/h and is able to prevent rear-end collisions at speeds of up to 20 km/h.

Established assistance systems, such as the Lane Tracking package with Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist or Adaptive Highbeam Assist, are also available for the CLA. Active Parking Assist (optional) enables automatic parking in lengthways and crossways parking spaces.

Designed for dynamism: the chassis and suspension

The chassis of the CLA features a McPherson front axle and an independent multilink rear suspension, featuring three control arms and one trailing arm per wheel. This means that longitudinal and lateral dynamics are virtually independent of one another. A CLA-specific feature is the flexible decoupling of the rear axle carrier, which benefits ride comfort. Wheel carriers and spring links are made of aluminium, in order to reduce unsprung masses. Two chassis and suspension set-ups are available: the comfort suspension and the optional sports suspension for sporty yet comfortable handling. The latter entails lowering of the body by 15 mm (front) and 10 mm (rear).

Irrespective of the selected chassis, all CLA variants come with the Direct Steer system. This electromechanical power steering offers improved feedback to the driver in comparison to conventional systems and makes an important contribution towards overall efficiency, as the steering assist function only requires energy when the steering wheel is actually turned. Additionally it enables various steering assistance functions which are activated by the ESP® control unit. These include countersteering in case of oversteering, corrective steering when braking on road surfaces offering different levels of grip (split-friction braking), mitigation of the extent to which the front-wheel drive influences the steering and compensation for crosswind and road gradients.

High tractive power reserves and outstanding agility: 4MATIC all-wheel drive

The CLA from Mercedes-Benz is optionally available with a new generation of the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system featuring fully variable torque distribution. Similar to the other 4MATIC versions, this completely new development boasts high tractive power reserves and outstanding agility combined with superlative driving safety and energy efficiency.

The components of the new 4MATIC include the power take-off to the rear axle which is integrated in the 7G-DCT automated dual clutch transmission and the rear-axle gear with integrated, electrohydraulically controlled multi-disk clutch. This set-up enables fully variable distribution of the drive torque between front and rear axle. Additional benefits of this design are a lower system weight compared with what is available from the competition as well as high efficiency.

All set for the future: powerful and efficient drive

Ahead of the scheduled introduction of the Euro 6 regulation, all petrol-engine variants and the top diesel variant of the new Mercedes-Benz CLA already meet the future requirements of this European exhaust emissions standard.

The petrol engines with a displacement of 1.6 and 2.0 litres cover an output spectrum ranging from 90 kW (122 hp) in the CLA 180 through 115 kW (156 hp) in the CLA 200 to 155 kW (211 hp) in the CLA 250. The two diesel engines combine dynamic low-end torque with the utmost efficiency: the CLA 200 CDI generates 100 kW (136 hp), with a maximum torque of 300 Nm (available from September 2013). The CLA 220 CDI has a displacement of 2.2 litres and delivers 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm of torque, while emitting only 109 g of CO2 per kilometre.

All engines feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. The engines are combined with a six-speed manual transmission or with the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission, which reconciles comfort and sportiness in inimitable fashion.

An overview of the models and prices:

Model		CLA 180	CLA 180 BE Edition 3	CLA 200	CLA 250	CLA 200 CDI5	CLA 220 CDI
		Petrol, direct injection				Diesel, direct injection
Displacement	cc	1595	1595	1595	1991	1796	2143
Transmission		6-speed	6-speed	6-speed	7G-DCT	6-speed	7G-DCT
Output	kW (hp)	90 (122)	90 (122)	115 (156)	155 (211)	100 (136)	125 (170)
Max. torque	Nm	200	200	250	350	300	350
Fuel consumption, combined	l/100 km	5.4 – 5.6	5.0	5.5 – 5.7	6.1 – 6.2	n/a	4.2 – 4.5
CO2 emissions1	g/km	126 – 130	118	127 – 131	142 – 144	n/a	109 – 117
Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h	s	9.3	9.9	8.6	6.7	9.4	8.2
Top speed	km/h	210	1904	230	240	220	230
Price2	Euros	28,977	28,977	31,862	38,675	n/a	37,991

• 1 combined, 2 sales price in Germany, incl. 19 percent VAT, 3 BE = BlueEFFICIENCY,
• 4 electronically limited, 5 available from September, n/a = no data available yet

“Always on”: the multimedia systems

The latest multimedia generation deployed in the CLA boasts new functions, additional apps and a modified graphic colour scheme.

Daimler’s Digital Drive Style app concept, which together with the Drive Kit Plus for the iPhone® enables seamless integration of the iPhone® into the vehicle, has been extended. The highlights include Siri voice control and Glympse real-time location sharing. Glympse enables the user to share his or her current location with selected persons. Other functions are Facebook®, Twitter®, internet radio, AUPEO!™ Personal Radio and the advanced navigation solution from Garmin® with web-based real-time traffic information, online special destination search including Street View™ and 3D map display.

The COMAND Online multimedia system has also been extended. The latest generation offers improved, photo-realistic map display, an additional Bluetooth® profile (to enable the internet to be accessed via iPhone®, for example), the display of images additionally in bmp and png formats and the real-time transfer of traffic data.