The type of the Mercedes CLA now not stands out because it once did. When Mercedes designers began making the brand’s core lineup (the C-Class, E-Class and S-Class) look more like the CLS, it became harder for its elegant, four-door, coupe-like little brother to make an enduring impression. All right. In any case, the CLA is more Mercedes than ever and has a deeper meaning than simply design. With updated styling, more standard equipment and a brand new mild-hybrid powertrain, the 2024 edition features the most important improvements since the launch of the latest-generation CLA in 2020. I spent every week driving around the suburbs on this hyper-blue Benz CLA 250 4Matic and because of its dazzling color I maintained a modest level of celebrity status.
1. OK, let’s discuss the color
I do know, I do know – starting with the color of the automobile is superficial. Hyper blue is recent for the 2024 model yr, and this teal shade gives this automobile a presence. I noticed a man taking pictures in my driveway and it caught my attention at the school drop off. It resembles a shade of Miami Vice, quite rare in the automotive industry, and cut through the late winter gloom. Reading my mind a bit, I’m guessing that the majority individuals who saw the CLA 250 had no idea it was Mercedes’ entry-level sedan (the A-Class has been discontinued).
2. It’s not low-cost
I remember when the CLA was billed as a gateway Mercedes with a starting sticker of just below $30,000. Not only was it cheaper than the C-Class, nevertheless it was intended to draw a brand new customer to Mercedes who could grow with the brand.
After the A-Class’ short-lived American appearance, the CLA is once more out of the gate, but now the front-wheel-drive version is priced at $43,200, while the 250 4Matic starts at $45,200. Options including multi-beam LED headlights, the Premium package, the Winter package, heated seats and Burmester surround sound bring the price to $54,380, including destination. It looks like an authentic Mercedes at a reasonable price.
3. But it’s price it, because…
The interior is gorgeous. This one is furnished in macchiato beige with aluminum accents. Mercedes has spent the last decade with a nautical vibe, and the three circular vents in the center, finished in gloss black, create an old-school powerboat vibe. To diversify the decor, I selected purple ambient lighting. The configurable 10.25-inch instrument panel is obvious and colourful. I preferred to depart it in the basic speedometer and tachometer configuration. In the middle is one other 10.25-inch touchscreen that houses the infotainment system. With the addition of the latest generation of MBUX for 2024, the system is comparatively easy to make use of, but I still miss Mercedes’ old rotary console controller, which allowed the driver to see things more easily. Overall, I believe it’s the right balance of screens and buttons. Watch my interior review below and judge for yourself.
4. The daring powertrain has character
It’s been a minute since I drove a CLA, so never mind that mild hybridization will probably be added in 2024, this generation’s eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission was also recent to me. The previous CLA had the unloved seven-speed DCT gearbox. New for ’24: Mercedes has added a 48-volt belt-drive hybrid system that delivers 13 more horsepower on earlier versions (5,500 rpm in comparison with 5,800 rpm) to help acceleration, although engine power stays unchanged. With power sent to all 4 wheels via the 4Matic system, the 250 is loads of fun to drive. With a front-wheel chassis and just 221 horsepower, it isn’t much of a pocket rocket, although 258 pound-feet allows it to speed up to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. For about $2,000 greater than the 250 4Matic, you may get the CLA 35 AMG with one other 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 302 horsepower. You can even buy a base C 300 with 4Matic for around $50,000. I’d do it.
5. Similar design, but Mercedes should go further with a shooting brake
When the CLA first appeared on the market in 2013 with its sloping silhouette and concave styling cues, it was clear that Mercedes was willing to take a risk. It was a bit CLS. Times have modified, but the CLA stays a mode benchmark. While this four-door automobile is present, I believe a well-received Shooting Brake sold in other markets can be a sensible addition to the line. A motoring author likes German station wagons? Stop the presses. But hear me out.
The next-generation CLA is anticipated to be electric, as previewed by the Concept CLA Class shown last fall in Munich, and the modular platform supports sedan, crossover and estate variants. Americans prefer crossovers to sedans. Why not meet in the middle with an electrical wagon?
Credit : www.autoblog.com
