2021 Dodge Challenger vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA featured a significant design overhaul compared to its predecessor, with the most noticeable change being the headlights. The previous eagle-eye clusters were replaced with more elegant, wedge-like units, aligning the CLA closer to the larger CLS model. The roof and trunk design gave the CLA a dramatic, almost boat-like appearance, reminiscent of the S-Class Coupe. Inside, the CLA boasted a modern, upscale cabin with a multi-tier dash and vintage-looking climate vents, enhanced by ambient lighting that responded to climate control adjustments. The instrument and infotainment screens formed a single sweeping panel, contributing to a timeless interior design.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Challenger maintained its retro-inspired design, with squared-off fenders, round headlights, and a wide, stocky body. The base SXT model, even with its plain 18-inch alloys, exuded a cool, familiar style. Higher trims added aggressive features like hood scoops, fender flares, and larger wheels. Inside, the Challenger's cabin remained largely unchanged since its 2015 refresh, offering analog gauges, a central display, and a variety of seat materials and colors. The interior was functional but not particularly modern, with comfortable seats and straightforward controls.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA offered four powertrain configurations across its variants. The CLA 250 and CLA 250 4Matic featured a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The CLA 250 4Matic added all-wheel drive for better all-weather performance. The CLA's engine provided strong power for its size, with the transmission holding gears effectively to maximize performance. The CLA's steering was light yet refined, and its cornering was precise without sacrificing ride quality. The EPA estimated fuel economy for the CLA 250 4Matic at 23 mpg city, 33 highway, and 27 combined, with real-world testing showing just over 25 mpg.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger offered a wide range of engine options, from a 3.6-liter V6 in the SXT and GT trims to the monstrous supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the Hellcat models. The V6 engine, producing 303 horsepower, was adequate for highway cruising but lacked excitement. The R/T trim featured a 375-hp, 5.7-liter V8, while the R/T Scat Pack boasted a 485-hp, 6.4-liter V8. The Hellcat models offered 717, 797, or 807 horsepower, with the SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody achieving 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 203 mph. The Challenger's performance features included line lock, launch control, and adaptive dampers, making it a formidable sports car. However, the V6 models were less engaging, and the handling and steering were adequate but unremarkable.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA, despite being labeled a "coupe," was a sedan with a raked rear window and tight rear seats. The rear headroom was limited, making it uncomfortable for adults on longer drives. The front seats were sport bucket seats with ample bolstering but lacked headrest adjustment, affecting comfort on long trips. The CLA offered 13.1 cubic feet of trunk space, with the backseat folding down for larger items. However, the car's warning system for folded seats was a minor annoyance.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger, with its large 16 cubic feet trunk, offered more cargo space than many sedans. While technically a five-seater, the back seat was best deleted for more cargo space, as the Challenger was essentially a car for one. The driver's seat provided a moderately good view, with small side mirrors requiring careful lane changes and parking. The interior featured conventional controls and the UConnect infotainment system, which was simple and fast. The seats were comfortable, with various material and color options, and the steering wheels offered multiple designs with concealed controls for a cleaner look.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA featured the MBUX infotainment system, replacing the old non-touchscreen and rotary dial with a touchscreen and trackpad controller. The system included advanced voice control, allowing complex commands with a simple "Hey, Mercedes" prompt. The CLA also had steering-wheel-mounted controls for the digital screens, with the left pad operating the instrument panel and the right one controlling the center touchscreen. However, the CLA's five USB-C ports were a bit ahead of their time, potentially inconveniencing users with traditional USB cables.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger's standard infotainment system included a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the 8.4-inch screen was a recommended upgrade. The UConnect system provided performance data and allowed custom driving modes. Available technology included an Alpine audio system, power steering column, driver's seat memory, SiriusXM, HD radio, 4G WiFi hotspot, xenon headlights, auto high beams, and rain-sensing wipers. However, driver assists were limited, with adaptive cruise control being optional and no semi-automated highway system available.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA came with a full suite of driver-assistance features, including a lane-departure warning system that was overly abrupt, forward-collision avoidance, automatic high beams, and a driver-drowsiness monitor. Standard safety features included front- and side-impact airbags, a reversing camera, and traction control. The available surround-view camera was a useful addition for precise parking.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but performed poorly in IIHS tests. It scored "good" in only two of six tests and "marginal" for the driver in the small overlap front test. The Challenger's body structure was rated "poor" for frontal crash intrusion. Available safety features included forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, but the forward emergency braking was rated at the lowest "basic" level.