2020 Dodge Challenger vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA

With its stablemate, the Dodge Charger, the Dodge Challenger is one of the last remaining modern muscle cars. The Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro have both eschewed their “retro” phases to become more forward-looking sporty coupes. But the Challenger holds fast, trading on the past while using current automotive technology to create one of the most fun-loving coupes on the market. This puts the Challenger in a field of one, but for those seeking what the Challenger has to offer, nothing else is needed.

The Challenger is largely unchanged for the 2020 model year. It provides several new colors, some additional interior design choices, and adds a 50th Anniversary package for some trims.

The entry-level luxury car market has come a long way in the past decade. When upscale automakers first went downmarket, they tended to miss the mark and fail to reach the level of quality that buyers associate with their badges. But they have often come around and finally started producing compact cars with legitimate luxury credentials. One such comeback story is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class.

When the CLA was first introduced as a 2014 model, it did not live up to the Mercedez-Benz reputation for luxury. It was underpowered, had a harsh ride, and had a low-grade interior. That all changed with the arrival of its replacement for the 2020 model year. The coupe-like sedan was a significant improvement and it carries over to the 2021 model year. The current CLA has sharp styling, energetic performance, and a high-class interior that’s outfitted with an advanced user interface.