CLA-Class Mercedes Benz

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA earns great fuel economy, and reviewers like its agile handling but not its harsh ride and cramped back seats.

Performance Summary

With its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, reviewers say the 2016 CLA250 delivers plenty of power. Still, some say acceleration from a stop can be sluggish without a forceful push on the gas pedal. The performance-oriented CLA45 AMG comes with a stronger turbocharged four-cylinder engine that auto writers say provides vigorous acceleration. A seven-speed automated manual transmission is standard, and while some find that it performs smoothly, others say it can feel clumsy during low-speed driving.

With an EPA-estimated 26/38 mpg city/highway, the CLA250 earns great fuel economy estimates for the class. Automotive journalists say the Mercedes-Benz CLA delivers athletic handling and little body roll around corners. They appreciate its sharp steering and strong brakes, but they caution that the CLA45 AMG's brakes are too touchy.

Interior Summary

Most auto writers think the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA has a quiet, handsomely designed cabin made with premium materials. Still, a few note a number of low-quality plastics used on the dashboard and center console. The CLA's front seats are comfortable and supportive, reviewers say, but they think its back seats have little head- and legroom. Some critics also report that the CLA's sloping roofline limits rearward visibility.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA comes with Bluetooth, a USB port, Mercedes’ mbrace telematics and information system, rain-sensing windshield wipers, dual-zone automatic climate control, a knob-based infotainment system with a 7-inch display, forward collision warning, and attention assist, which monitors signs of driver drowsiness and alerts you if it detects you falling asleep. Available features include a panoramic moonroof, blind spot monitoring, parallel park assist, a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, Mercedes’ COMAND infotainment system with navigation and an 8-inch high-resolution screen, a Harman Kardon audio system, a DVD player and satellite radio. Critics are disappointed with the available COMAND infotainment system. They find its on-screen menus complicated. A few test drivers also report that the climate control buttons are mounted low on the dashboard, which can distract the driver from the road. The CLA offers a respectable 13.1 cubic feet of trunk space, which is a bit more than what most cars in the class provide.

• "With the CLA, Mercedes has created an obtainable - and stylish - ticket into the world of luxury motoring. Although not without faults, the CLA is an attractive package at $35, 000, offering jaw-dropping looks and a brand name with plenty of cachet. However, the CLA's appeal falls apart quickly once the kitty climbs past $40, 000, so be sure to go light on the options." - Left Lane News
• "The 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class offers all the trimmings of a proper Benz for a relatively modest price. Although its driving character and compact cabin dimensions won't please everyone, shoppers interested in a small European entry-level luxury sedan will certainly want to take a look." - Edmunds (2015)
• "Starting at around $30, 000 for the CLA250, it certainly hits the price point. But what's surprising is the style packed into this compact-luxury sedan. Taking its cues from the larger CLS-Class, the CLA's sweeping lines work well with its tidy dimensions, giving it an aggressiveness and road presence that's matched by how it drives, especially the CLA45 AMG model. It's a compelling car against the likes of the Cadillac ATS, Audi A3 and other small luxury sedans." - Kelley Blue Book (2015)
• "Overall, the CLA is disappointing. Yes, it has a lot of features and stature for the price. And the styling's nonpareil. But, no, it's not all the way there in refinement and premium persona, which largely are what make a luxury brand worthwhile." - USA Today (2014)

Other Cars to Consider

The Audi A3 impresses reviewers with its powerful turbocharged base engine and its available fuel-efficient turbodiesel engine. They also appreciate its engaging handling. Test drivers say the A3 has top-notch interior materials and a straightforward infotainment system.

Reviewers say the BMW 3-Series has sharp handling, a comfortable ride and a base turbocharged engine that delivers plenty of power. Additionally, test drivers appreciate the 3-Series' simple infotainment system, roomy back seats and spacious trunk.

Details: 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA seats five and is available in two models: the front-wheel drive CLA250 (all-wheel drive is available) and the all-wheel drive CLA45 AMG 4MATIC. A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a seven-speed automated manual transmission come with the CLA250, while the CLA45 AMG has a more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder AMG engine and a seven-speed automated manual transmission. The CLA debuted as a new model for 2014 and sees few changes for 2016. As a result, this overview uses applicable research and reviews from the 2014 through 2016 model years.