2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, last refreshed for 2017, carries over largely unchanged for 2019, although the top-tier trim gains new...

The Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, last refreshed for 2017, carries over largely unchanged for 2019, although the top-tier trim gains new standard features.

The CLA-Class has a low, wide stance with body lines along the hood and sides and features a choice of elegant wheel designs depending on the trim level. The top-tier trim, the AMG CLA 45, gets exclusive, sporty styling touches. Trim options include the CLA 250, the CLA 250 4MATIC, and the AMG CLA 45.

There are two engines available with the CLA-Class. The base CLA 250, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, makes 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, with a 7-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels. The CLA 250 4MATIC features the same specs, though it features all-wheel drive (AWD). EPA ratings for the CLA 250 come in at 24 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 29 combined. The 4MATIC version sees a drop in fuel economy, making 24, 32, and 27. If you want more power, the AMG CLA 45 boasts 375 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque from its hand-built twin-scroll turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. This version also includes a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and the 4MATIC AWD system. For fuel-economy ratings, the AMG CLA 45 makes 23, 30, and 26.

Standard features include an 8-inch display, dual-zone climate control, and keyless start. Additional options, like heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a proximity key, leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and auto-dimming mirrors, are also available. The CLA 250 can be upgraded with the AMG Line package, which comes with sporty styling, a sport suspension system, and sport-tuned steering. For 2019, the AMG CLA 45 adds the Premium Package, Convenience Package, and 19-inch wheels, along with LED lighting, heated front seats, a hands-free trunk, and a long list of standard active safety features.

For technology, the CLA-Class features an 8-inch display that houses the infotainment system. Other options include a Harman Kardon sound system, SiriusXM satellite radio, a smartphone integration upgrade with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and navigation.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have not yet evaluated the 2019 CLA-Class. Standard safety features include active brake assist and driver-attention monitoring. Additional options include blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control.

The CLA-Class gets a promotion in the Mercedes-Benz lineup due to the introduction of the new A-Class sedan. Shoppers in search of a small luxury car should consider the CLA-Class as it competes against others in the market like the Audi A3 and BMW’s 2 Series.