When introduced, the Mercedes Benz CLA, with its swooping roofline and mini-CLS looks had created quite a unique spot in the segment for itself. To ensure the least expensive yet very stylish saloon (in Merc’s line-up) stays relevant, the company has now given it a facelift. Unveiled early this year, the 2017 Mercedes Benz CLA is launched at Rs 31.40 lakh onwards.
But as we list the changes, let’s first look at the basics. Underneath it’s the same MFA (Mercedes Benz Front-wheel drive Architecture) platform which underpins the A- and B-Class, and the GLA. The transversally-mounted engines send power to the front-wheels or, in very specific cases, to all four.
Now, the changes; on the outside, Merc has included all LED head- and taillamps. Tweaked bumper design might go unnoticed at first, but it’s there (at both front and rear). A new eight-inch COMAND infotainment system also makes it to the CLA facelift. Like on the GLA Activity Edition, it comes with complete Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support. The CLA also gets a panoramic sunroof, six airbags, ABS and EBD, and five exterior paint choices.
Engine options remain unchanged: a 2-litre petrol and a 2.1-litre diesel. Both of these come mated to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. Locally assembled here in India (which also happens to be the only market outside of Europe to do so), the 2017 CLA is the 12th vehicle Mercedes has launched this year. Which is quite something for a premium car manufacturer. To add to that, it must also be noted that the company has sold more than 11,500 units of the MFA-based products in the country.
The car will continue to be offered in Style and Sport trim; diesel-only, the former. Hence the starting price of Rs 31.40 lakh is for CLA 200d Style. Move up the range and you have the CLA 200d Sport, available at Rs 34.68 lakh. The petrol engined CLA 200 Sport is priced at Rs 33.68 lakh. All prices are ex-showroom.
And there’s also a ‘Road and Track’ package, with extra bits like carbon-fibre parts, lots of stickers, and red-accents on the body. If that floats your boat, then add another Rs 1.72 lakh to the purchase price of the CLA and it can be yours.
