Mercedes-Benz has launched a new hybrid variant of its popular CLA sedan, offering drivers a blend of stylish design and fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. Priced starting at £38,700—a significant £7,000 less than the fully electric EQA model—the CLA hybrid aims to appeal to a wide range of buyers seeking a premium driving experience with a lighter environmental footprint.
The lineup boasts three distinct engine options and five trim levels, ensuring there’s a CLA hybrid tailored to individual preferences and budgets. Even winter driving is accounted for with the availability of an all-wheel-drive 4Matic variant, enhancing traction during colder months.
Powertrains Tailored for Efficiency:
At the entry level sits the CLA 180 Sport, powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine augmented by a small hybrid system and a 1.3kWh battery. While the petrol engine itself generates 134 bhp, the integrated electric motor contributes an additional 30 bhp, propelling the car from 0 to 62 mph in 8.8 seconds. This combination delivers impressive fuel efficiency, with Mercedes quoting figures of 56.5 mpg and CO2 emissions of 114 g/km.
Stepping up to the CLA 200 retains the same fundamental setup but swaps out the base engine for a more potent 161 bhp petrol unit. The acceleration improves slightly, reaching 0 to 62 mph in a brisk eight seconds, while fuel economy and emissions remain consistent with its sibling.
The range-topping CLA 220 4Matic introduces all-wheel drive, sending power to both the front and rear axles for enhanced grip and handling dynamics. This variant boasts a combined output of 187 bhp from the petrol engine and electric motor, enabling a faster 0 to 62 mph sprint time of 7.1 seconds. Despite its performance edge, fuel efficiency still holds up at an estimated 52.4 mpg with CO2 emissions at 123 g/km.
A Spectrum of Choice:
Beyond engine choices, Mercedes offers five distinct trim levels to personalize the CLA hybrid experience: Sport, Sport Edition, AMG Line Executive, AMG Line Premium, and AMG Line Premium Plus. Each level progressively adds features and upgrades, catering to various tastes and budgets.
The base Sport trim equips the car with alloy wheels, LED lights (including high-beam assist), and an illuminated grille surround. Inside, a generous 14-inch central display dominates the dashboard alongside climate control and a panoramic sunroof. Adaptive cruise control and blind-spot assist come standard for added safety and convenience.
Opting for the Sport Edition ($2,850 more) adds features like tinted glass, flush-fitting door handles, keyless entry, ambient lighting with 64 color options, and a wireless phone charger. The AMG Line Executive models (£44,000 onwards) inject a sportier aesthetic, complete with sports seats and a Nappa leather steering wheel with multifunction controls.
Further up the ladder, the AMG Line Premium (£1,900 above the Executive) introduces the full MBUX Superscreen infotainment system, encompassing even a passenger display. It also includes two-zone climate control and enhanced app functionality for greater in-car connectivity. The top-of-the-line AMG Line Premium Plus (£48,600 onwards) rounds out the lineup with premium features such as multi-beam headlights, a Winter Pack (including heated steering wheel), a Burmester surround-sound audio system, and a head-up display.
Each of these CLA hybrid variants offers a compelling blend of refinement, performance, and sustainability, positioning Mercedes to further capitalize on the growing demand for eco-conscious luxury vehicles.
