Review: Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 AMG Line
The third generation CLA seems to be focused on its electric variant, rather than the hybrid.
The new CLA has taken a while to reach our hands since its unveiling at the Singapore Motorshow earlier this year.
I was excited at that time to learn that the CLA is now offered as a hybrid (not just a mild hybrid, mind). 48-volt technology is combined with an electric motor that’s integrated into the transmission, allowing the car to run on electric power alone up to 100 km/h.
At the Motorshow, only the CLA 200 was shown (Cat B), but since then a Cat A model (CLA 180) is also available. The one on test here is the Cat B model with AMG Line.
With 161 hp and 250 Nm, the CLA 200 should feel reasonably perky (0-100 km/h in 8 seconds). However, since it’s Mercedes’ early attempt at a full hybrid, the execution is a tad disjointed. Progress can feel laggy and sometimes jerky, as the ICE engine takes over from the electric motor and vice versa. Stretching the ICE engine is also not particularly pleasant, as it revels more in relaxed driving. That’s fine, if not for the fact that fuel economy isn’t superb either. The car is rarely in all-electric mode, which is understandable given its small battery size.
As the CLA 200 is a small car, the ride comfort isn’t expected to be stellar with its short wheelbase. But for a Mercedes, I reckon the car could be better damped. It’s OK dealing with typical road surfaces, but over more challenging tarmac it feels a tad harshly damped. Sometimes it even bottoms out quite early on.
The interior features the new MB.OS. Now everything is essentially operated via the screen. Not a big fan here, but it does look pretty impressive especially when the passenger display is specified (standard in this trim, but not on the test car). However, overall interior quality is very average for its class. Hard plastic still abounds and you won’t take long to find them.
One thing the CLA got right is its exterior design. I think it looks even better than the car it replaces, and with the optional illuminated front grille and rear light strip it looks the business.
Am I being overly harsh? I am not sure. Maybe Mercedes just shifted its resources and attention to the EV version, which I haven’t driven. But the ICE version, as it is, requires a bit more finessing to make it a true Mercedes.
Photos by Sean Seah
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