The Mercedes-Benz CLA family gets updated, but won’t be pushed in Malaysia.
The CLA may be a relatively new nameplate addition to the Mercedes-Benz family, but it has been instrumental in the company’s push into the compact premium space. Today the 2nd generation CLA is getting a facelift that will bring changes across both the 4-door Coupé and Shooting Brake offerings.
The best place to start is actually under the hood. All petrol engines are now electrified and feature either a 7-speed or 8-speed dual clutch automatic transmission as standard – it looks like the manual is well and truly gone for this Benz even in Europe. These mild hybrid engines now feature a 48V power supply for smoother engine start/stop/coast operations and for a 10kW boost in power. A new ECO Score 3.0 has been implemented to motivate drivers to drive more efficiently.
The Plug-in Hybrid model, the CLA 250e, has an improved battery for better electric range. Plus, the electric motor’s output has been increased by 5 kW to 80 kW. What’s more the max AC charging speed has been increased from 7.4 kW to 11 kW. The AMG 35 and AMG 45 models get similar updates as what was seen on their A-Class counterparts in 2022.
In terms of design, the CLA now features a new front apron, a revised radiator grille with star pattern, a new rear diffuser, modernised daytime running light graphics and taillight graphics. There’s also an new CLA-exclusive colour, ‘hyper blue’.
Three 19″ rim designs have also been made available.
Inside, there are new trim elements in a variety of finishes. Standard equipment has been increased across the line along with more upholstery options. Another change is the increased use of recycled materials in seat covers to help the brand achieve CO2 neutrality.
Equipment upgrades have been brought to the new CLA family as well. Standard equipment now includes:
- A Reversing Camera
- The USB Package
- Leather Steering Wheel
- LED Front Lamps with Highbeam Assist
With the Progressive Trim, you also get the Parking Package, the Mirror Package, and the EASY-PACK tailgate for the Shooting Brake model.
The CLA models also now feature the latest MBUX system with its new display styles (Classic, Sporty and Discreet), seven colour themes, and massive customisation options. Apply CarPlay and Android Auto Wireless are now available and a new USB-C port has been added while all USB ports have been illuminated. The Burmester surround sound system now comes with Dolby Atmos. Safety Assistance functions have also been improved.
