If the CLS is the hot mom then the CLA is her “Girl next door” daughter. Sleek and sexy, the CLA lends much of its unique design language from the CLS, yet it remains compact, thanks to the new A-Class which it owes many of its underpinnings to. As is the way with Mercedes-Benz, there is more to the CLA than what meets the eye. That sexy exterior plays a huge roll with regards to the aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle. The CLA boasts a world-leading drag coefficient level of just 0.22. This means that the CLS slices through the air like a barracuda through water. This also helps to improve the cars already impressive with fuel economy figures.
The CLA shares much of its interior trim from that of the A-Class. The interiors sporty and modern design along with a high quality feel throughout adds to the appeal of the CLA. The most noticeable feature is the LCD, tablet like screen which. Mounted to the front of the dashboard, this screen displays various infotainment and vehicle information. The CLA features many premium safety features as standard, these include Driver Assistance, PreSafe, Blind Spot Assist and Attention Assist as well as a system that compensates for cross winds. The CLA has also won numerous awards with regards to passive safety as well as being awarded a 5 star NCAP safety rating. I will admit that rear passengers might feel a little cramped in the rear, especially with regards to head space. But I’ve always said that looking good comes at a price.
If the CLA is the sweet girl next door then the CLA45 AMG version which I drove is her rebel sister, the one that breaks all the rules, the untameable one. Aggressive is an understatement to describe the AMGs visual character. I couldn’t help but approach it with caution.
Under the bonnet we find the very same 265kW 450Nm 2.0l 4cylinder engine that has left the worlds motoring press in sheer astonishment since it was unleashed in the A45 AMG not so long ago. The engine is coupled to a 7G-Speedshift double-clutch gearbox which sends power to the black stuff via a very advanced and extremely capable, fully variable all-wheel drive system which Mercedes-Benz calls 4MATIC.
Driving the around town one would be hard pressed to notice that you are in a very fast car. It’s quiet and comfortable, well, considering the fact that it has stiff suspension. However, one push of the ‘Sports” button and the CLA45 comes alive. Take it on a twisty road al I did and you will able to experience the CLA45 AMGs phenomenal handling ability. The speed at which you can approach a corner, go around the corner and exit that corner is sheer mind blowing stuff. The advanced traction control system, 4MATIC system and race car like weight distribution prevents any hit of understeer. The CLA45 AMG goes around corners as if it’s on rails. You can feel power being shifted around for maximum traction and, as a driving enthusiast, that is very cool. The R674 400 that one will need to pay for this coolness is not so cool though.
The CLA is an impressive offering, its styling and compact design blended with the brands premium feel is sure to win favour among customers looking for an attractive alternative.
Photo credit to JD Grobler
Special thanks to McCarthy Kunene Witbank for the use of their CLA45 AMG. Contact them for more info on this car or other new and exciting Mercedes-Benz models.
