Mercedes-Benz has released the second generation version of its CLA compact four-door coupe with some design tweaks, extra interior space and a technology upgrade.
First sold here in late 2013 the CLA shares much of its styling with the larger Benz CLS and much of its platform and engines with the new A-Class including a new direct-injected and turbocharged 1.3-litre 120 kW / 250 Nm, four-cylinder engine.
The all-new CLA-class feature front-wheel drive in most models, though 4MATIC all-wheel drive will be a part of the high-performance variants.
The Mercedes CLA200 starts at $59,900 plus on-road costs, a substantial $6400 more than the previous CLA200 but now comes with AMG Line styling, and wheels as well as the latest infotainment features.
Models to follow include the Benz CLA 250 4MATIC and AMG CLA 35 4MATIC around October 2019 and the AMG CLA 45 S with 310 kW and 500 Nm early in 2020. The Shooting Brake (aka station wagon) variant has been dropped from the Australian range.
The new CLA is larger than the outgoing model in most external and internal dimensions.
Technology enhancements include the new MBUX interface with its twin 10.25-inch fully digital and customisable display screens. Advanced voice recognition system uses the ‘Hey Mercedes’ prompt followed by a variety of commands to access satellite navigation addresses, hands-free phone calls, radio station changes and climate control settings.
All CLA models will also have access to the Mercedes me Connect system that links a number of functions directly to a smartphone app allowing remote functions such as locking/unlocking the doors, tracking and locating the vehicle, and retrieving maintenance and service information.
It’s even capable, where the necessary infrastructure is in place, of finding vacant parking spaces!
Standard safety features include nine airbags, Active Brake Assist with semi-autonomous braking; Adaptive High beam Assist; Blind Spot Assist with exit warning assistant; Active Lane Keeping Assist; Traffic Sign Assist; Pre-Safe crash anticipation system, reversing camera; automatic LED headlights and rain-sensing windscreen wipers.
Optional extras include a $2490 Vision Package; $2490 Communications Package and $2990 Exclusive Package. These, and the base A200 price of $59,900, do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Mercedes-Benz dealer for driveaway pricing.
