The CLA-Class is Mercedes-Benz’s smallest and most affordable sedan, although the brand prefers to call it a “coupe.” It’s a strong competitor to the Audi A3 and BMW 2-Series.
The 2024 Mercedes CLA-Class is a great pick for a small car, as long as you don’t expect crossover-level practicality. We like its elegant road manners and svelte styling, good for a 6.0 on the TCC scale. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
Lots. The 2024 CLA gets revised exterior styling with standard high-performance LED front lighting and LED rear lighting, a pair of 10.3-inch screens, the updated MBUX infotainment system, a new mild-hybrid powertrain, and updated wheel designs and upholstery choices. The optional Driver Assistance Package has been upgraded and joined by a new standard Parking Package.
The CLA is available in three forms, all of which combine a coupe silhouette with four doors for personality and practicality. It’s a style statement that helps justify its $40,000-plus price tag, much like a scaled-down interpretation of the automaker’s larger CLS.
There are two flavors of AMG versions—some have AMG-blessed engines and others get AMG styling upgrades—and all look and feel a little tarted up thanks to bigger air intakes and larger wheels, but the overall shape still looks classy.
The CLA’s cabin features simple lines that best complement the pair of 10.3-inch screens behind a single pane of glass. A bevy of upholstery and trims are available, most of which require additional spend or are accessed through various packages. Shop thoughtfully.
The CLA can be fitted with a trio of turbo-4 engines, which vary from a basic 221 to a boisterous 416 hp in output. The base versions are quick, the CLA 35s with the mild-hybrid system are fast, and the ferocious CLA 45 hustles like a supercar with an additional 34 hp this year. All CLAs ride well enough, though you’ll want the optional adaptive dampers, particularly if you dress up the corners with the biggest rolling stock on offer.
The coupe name is appropriate inside, where front passengers have acceptable space but those in the rear will need to be on the shorter side. The back seat is best considered an extension of the roadster-like trunk. The cabin has an upscale, classy look, though the CLA’s spot as the entry to the brand hierarchy is betrayed in some cheaper interior materials.
No crash evaluations have been performed. Blind-spot monitors and automatic emergency braking come standard, but adding more driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control significantly increase the price.
How much does the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class cost?
We expect pricing to start at about $40,500 and climb quickly from there. Standard features include synthetic leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and twin 10.3-inch displays; consider budgeting for the adaptive cruise control and navigation that elevate the CLA to a proper luxury car. You’ll spend another $2,000 for all-wheel drive, so expect an outlay of least $47,000 for a modestly equipped CLA 250. For an AMG, shoot even higher, as a loaded-up version tops $80,000.
Where is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class made?
In Hungary.
