When Mercedes launched the CLA, I have to admit I wasn’t that impressed. But five years on, things have changed.
Of the myriad of different models and variations of models that Mercedes makes, the CLA is about the only one that has almost no rivals.
Five years ago, it hit the showrooms around the same time as the GLA, which is a junior SUV also based on the A-Class.
And the GLA remains possibly the most disappointing Merc – B-Class aside – that I’ve ever driven.
But interestingly and against expectations, I’ve warmed to this latest generation CLA.
Our test car is a CLA 200 AMG Line.
Deciphered this means a 1.3-litre petrol engine that produces 163bhp. It’s connected to a seven-speed DCT automatic gearbox – the diesel version with newer 8-speed DCT gearbox being, reportedly, a more pleasant combination.
Although the CLA is based on the A-Class, Mercedes has given it a more sports-orientated suspension.
The top spec A-Class gets an independent rear suspension, but all other models get a (cheaper) torsion beam axle.
All CLAs have the more expensive and superior back axle – a benefit you’ll feel in comfort more than in the car’s ability to be thrown around a corner more swiftly.
There’s only one trim specification available in the UK, and that’s AMG Line.
A hot AMG version of the CLA called the AMG CLA 35 is on its way for early next year.
I say one trim line, but it’s possible to add a Premium Plus pack to your CLA, which our test car has.
With it comes Merc’s full house Odeon-spec touchscreen arrangement. We’ll come to it in a minute.
As you’d expect, the CLA’s swoopy roofline reduces rear accommodation to a certain degree.
It’s the price you pay for the styling and the four pillarless doors.
In practice, you’re not robbed of as much space as you’d think.
The CLA is still a four-seat car that can accommodate two adults in the back.
They can even be tall adults in the 6ft range but while there’s adequate legroom it’s a bit tight on headroom. No wearing of hats indoors please.
I said that this car had no rivals.
That’s not strictly true because Hyundai makes a version of its i30 hatchback, the Fastback, which is a four-door coupe.
The Hyundai’s a nice car but it’s not in the same league as the Merc, either in price or quality (those two are of course related). The CLA pinches the A-Class’s interior which is good news.
The optional screens are impressive and relatively straightforward to operate through small touchpads on the steering wheel and a larger touchpad on the centre console.
The latter works better than other similar devices, in particular the one fitted to various Lexus models – but I’m afraid you’re going to have to put up with me being a stuck record on this subject because I think these overcomplicated systems are a dangerous distraction.
Carmakers, or the safety organisations, need to address this.
You’ll buy the CLA because its styling appeals and probably because you don’t have a family, or at least not one that includes lanky teenagers.
The diesel engine and its better gearbox would be my choice. The CLA is not a sports car so a diesel engine wouldn’t be sacrilegious.
THE FACTS
Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 AMG Line
Price: £35,070
Engine: 1.3-litre four-cylinder, 163bhp
0-62mph: 8.2sec
Fuel consumption: 47.9mpg
THE RIVALS
Hyundai i30 Fastback N
May not be as posh as the Mercedes, but it’s fast and fun.
BMW 220i M Sport
A close rival but only two doors. Good fun to drive and a bit more power.
Audi A3 S Line 40 TFSi
An average looking four-door saloon but it’s quick and sure-footed.
