This content is out of date and scheduled to be removed.

2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA: everything you need to know

Image of James Kelly
Author: | Updated: 01 Mar 2021 14:51

Following the reveal of the CLA Shooting Brake at the Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes has confirmed UK specs for its four-door Coupe sibling, with three trims and five petrol engine options set to be available from launch.

With deliveries expected to commence in summer, we’ll bring you lease rates from our advertising partners as soon as they’re available. In the meantime, here’s what we know about the all-new CLA Coupe…

Mercedes-Benz CLA 2019 static

The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA has been revealed at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, and was the first new Mercedes to be revealed in 2019. It gets a look that mirrors the larger CLS. 48mm longer than its predecessor, the more imposing look helps differentiate it from the newly introduced A-Class Saloon.

At the front, it’s very similar to the latest A-Class hatchback, but changes to the side profile and rear end are much more dramatic; there’s a set of pillarless doors and a swooping roofline to give it that four-door coupe look. At the back, it pulls off a ‘mini CLS’ look courtesy of an angular set of tail lights and a sweeping boot lid lip.

Mercedes-Benz CLA 2019 front

Read more: Mercedes 2019 – what’s new, available to order and coming soon?

Inside, the CLA is the latest in a line of Mercedes to benefit from a seriously smart interior. The company’s MBUX infotainment system is present, with the driver display and central dashboard dominated by two large screens.

Revealing the CLA at the CES demonstrates that Mercedes is seriously proud of its in-car tech, with MBUX claiming to “revolutionise how to operate and communicate” with the car.

It features high-definition graphics, customisable displays, a full colour Head-up Display, satnav with augmented reality and of course “Hey Mercedes” voice control system.

Mercedes-Benz CLA 2019 interior detail

The Gesture Control system can now recognise whether it is being operated by the driver or the passenger, while other clever touches include motion-sensing lighting that illuminate certain areas of the cabin if movement is detected.

Trims are made up entirely of AMG Line derivatives: AMG Line, AMG Line Premium, and AMG Line Premium Plus. All models get that fabulous MBUX infotainment system, as well as LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, heated front seats, Lane Keep Assist and leather upholstery among other niceties.

AMG Line Premium trim adds a 10.25-inch digital cockpit display; augmented navigation, a dash cam, ambient lighting, a rear armrest and  Keyless-Go. AMG Line Premium Plus features all of the above equipment, and adds a panoramic sliding sunroof; Multibeam LED headlights and Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus; memory seats for the driver and front passenger; Energizing pack – uses a number of the car’s systems to boost driver fitness and wellbeing.

Mercedes-Benz CLA 2019 SIDE

Aside from the impressive tech, there’s more space inside thanks to an increased wheelbase, while you’ll find some exquisite touches such as turbine air vents along with a metallic-look trim that we’ve grown used to seeing in the latest Mercedes. Boot space has been reduced from 470 litres to 460 litres, although Mercedes claims a larger boot lid and a wider floor have boosted practicality overall.

Only petrol engines will be available from launch, with the CLA 180 and 200 models using a 1.3-litre turbo producing 134bhp and 161bhp respectively. Both are capable of up to 47.9mpg combined.

Mercedes-Benz CLA 2019 rear

Next up is the CLA 220 – a 2.0-litre unit producing 188bhp and able to deliver up to 41.5mpg. The 220 is available with Mercedes’ 4MATIC four-wheel drive system. All models will be initially available with a 7G-DCT seven-speed automatic transmission, with a manual gearbox coming later.

The CLA 250 – which uses a 2.0-litre engine – generates 222bhp and 350 Nm. Economy figures are the same as the less potent 220. The diesel-powered CLA 200 d and CLA 220 d will also be added to the line-up later in the year.

A new ‘Direct Steer’ system has been fitted too, and is aimed at offering a more direct steering feel around bends, while also reducing the amount of input needed.

Mercedes-AMG models

Mercedes-AMG CLA A35

At the top of the range you’ll find the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 (pictured above). It gets the same 306hp 2.0-litre turbo as the AMG A35 – enough power to get it from rest to 62mph in 4.9secs and on to a limited top speed of 155mph.

The five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programmes “Slippery”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport +” and “Individual” enable a wide range of vehicle characteristics from comfortable to dynamic. It comes as standard with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and Mercedes’ 4MATIC four-wheel drive system.

AMG CLA35 unique driver display

As well as the more potent powertrain, it gets numerous distinctive features to help it stand apart from the rest of the range: there’s a new radiator grille with an AMG Line front apron and 18in lightweight alloy wheels.

A number of specific AMG touches on the inside are present too, including unique digital displays, sports seats and a sports steering wheel.

In the safety stakes, expect a range of semi-autonomous driving aids to be offered across the range. The most notable is DISTRONIC – which automatically slows the car for hazards, traffic lights, corners and junctions. It also allows the car to essentially drive itself on motorways and in heavy traffic. You can see it in action in our latest C-Class video review.

Categories:
Previous Post Next Post
Not sure what car you want?
  • Easy-to-use tool
  • Save time and money
  • Meet your match
Find your dream car

Manufacturer Spotlight

Related Deals

  • Mercedes-Benz Eqa

    EQA 250+ 140kW AMG Line Executive 70.5kWh 5dr Auto

    Mercedes-Benz Eqa EQA 250+ 140kW AMG Line Executive 70.5kWh 5dr Auto
    Personal Contract Hire
    9+47 10k Miles p/a
    Initial Payment: £4,334.58
    £481.62
    p/m inc. VAT
    View
    Deal by: Mercedes-Benz UK Limited
  • Mercedes-Benz A Class

    A200 AMG Line Executive 5dr Auto

    Mercedes-Benz A Class A200 AMG Line Executive 5dr Auto
    Personal Contract Hire
    9+47 8k Miles p/a
    Initial Payment: £3,214.53
    £357.17
    p/m inc. VAT
    View
    Deal by: Mercedes-Benz UK Limited
  • Mercedes-Benz Eqb

    EQB 350 4M 215kW AMG Line Premium 66.5kWh 5dr Auto

    Mercedes-Benz Eqb EQB 350 4M 215kW AMG Line Premium 66.5kWh 5dr Auto
    Personal Contract Hire
    3+35 10k Miles p/a
    Initial Payment: £2,103.63
    £701.21
    p/m inc. VAT
    View
    Deal by: Mercedes-Benz UK Limited
  • Mercedes-Benz Eqa

    EQA 250+ 140kW AMG Line Executive 70.5kWh 5dr Auto

    Mercedes-Benz Eqa EQA 250+ 140kW AMG Line Executive 70.5kWh 5dr Auto
    Personal Contract Hire
    3+35 10k Miles p/a
    Initial Payment: £1,896.39
    £632.13
    p/m inc. VAT
    View
    Deal by: Mercedes-Benz UK Limited