Automobile overview: Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

This impressive new Mercedes is an energetic, sporty drive – but it does take a bit of receiving utilised to, writes motor reviewer Tim Barnes-Clay.

Sometimes a pair of new footwear feels just correct.

No blisters ever appear and they quickly grow to be your go-to selection of footwear.

Initial discomfort

Other people lead to you a little discomfort at very first – but, when worn in, you really feel as even though you’d in no way sauntered in something else.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 AMG Sport I drove was extremely much in the latter category.

It took me a although fine-tuning the seat to give me the ideal driving position. I then had to adjust the steering wheel many instances – and then get the lumbar assistance right.

For the 1st day I just couldn’t nail it and, squirming uncomfortably, I was convinced this vehicle wasn’t for me.

Adjustments necessary

But, by the second day of my week with the Merc, I felt it was made with my name on it.

Some vehicle seats just call for a quick twiddle right here and there and you are all set up. 

I consider the CLA’s sports seats with integral headrests merely take some getting utilised to.

They’re sculpted in a curve-forward position, and make you really feel like your head wants to go back far more – even though that could have been me getting fussy on the day the vehicle was delivered.

An outstanding machine

Anyway, adequate of the seats and my hair-splitting: let me explain why, on the complete, the CLA is an superb piece of German machinery.

Aesthetically, its proportions and dynamic style give the compact 4-door saloon-cum-coupé an unmistakable look.

The vehicle’;s striking functions consist of the bonnet embedded in the front end with energy-domes and a diamond-appear grille.

The light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged in such a way as to create a characteristic “flare impact” for the daytime driving lights and indicators.

‘Energetic and youthful’;

This light signet defines the car’;s energetic kind and shapes a new, youthful Mercedes face.

The width-emphasising rear finish exudes muscle and athleticism, featuring an interplay in between convex and concave surfaces.

The gently sloping roof contour and the pronounced, hallmark curvature of the rear window, supply the CLA 250 AMG Sport with a coupé-style character from the rear, too.

The exterior’;s progressive, sporty appearance is continued inside the Benz.

A lot more seating issues

All trim surfaces are galvanised in silver shadow, resulting in a cool-to-the-touch metallic finish.

The instrument panel incorporates 5 massive round vents and there’s a prominent cost-free-standing show screen that characteristics a black piano-lacquer-appear front panel with a flush-fitting silver frame.

In the back, the seats, after again, become a sticking point.

They are cramped for adults and not even the best fit for 2 child seats, but my 8- and 5-year-old coped with no too considerably squabbling.

Spacious and precise

On the plus side, boot space is good for this type of automobile.

On the road, the CLA 250’s turbocharged 4-cylinder engine rocks for most situations.

The car has exceptional grip when pushed by means of corners and its 6-speed automatic transmission climbs and descends excellently beneath pressure.

Specially noteworthy is the Mercedes’ direct steer program, which provides precise feedback in comparison with standard power steering.

Security hasn’t been overlooked either, with several driving help systems offering help and lowering your workload behind the wheel.

Common-fit features consist of drowsiness detection and radar-based collision prevention help with adaptive brake assist, which helps to shield you from collisions from a speed of only 4mph.

Pros & cons

• Design and style √


• Steering √


• Grip √


• Security kit √


• Rear seats X

Rapidly information

• Max speed: 149mph


• -62 mph: 6.6 secs


• Combined mpg: 42.8


• Engine: 1991cc 4 cylinders 16 valve turbo petrol


• Max. power (bhp): 208


• Max. torque (lb.ft): 258


• CO2: 154g/km


• Value: £33,440

Evaluate quotes and get a Cost-free BRIAN toy when you purchase automobile insurance
(T&Cs apply)
Get a automobile quote

Automobile overview: Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class