Trendy by design
“Mercedes-Benz”. I could just imagine the episode where Clarkson would eventually give up and let the car finish the link and get out and walk off in a huff.
As for the sense of humour part, we asked the car how it was doing and it replied that it was having its best day, so far. I wondered what would have to happen to make the CLA Coupe change its mind and tell us it was having a horrible day. I figured an accident could upset our sweet sounding, digital lady assistant, but I was not keen to find out, because I have been married long enough to know it’s an argument I could never win. And maybe I would get a “fine”, and then the car would switch itself off and refuse to move until I said I apologised.
But back to the mechanical side of the car. The new CLA Coupe uses completely updated four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines that not only offer increased power, but also improved efficiency and emissions. We will only get the CLA 200 and CLA 220d at local launch, with AMG 35, 45 and 45 S models said to follow.
The CLA 200 has a 120kW/250Nm, 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine that makes use of a seven-speed double clutch gearbox and is said to be good for a 8.2-second 0 to 100km/h time and a 229km/h top speed while using an average of 5.3-litres per 100km.
The 2.0-litre turbodiesel CLA 220d was obviously a bit punchier than its petrol sibling thanks to 140kW of power and 400Nm of torque driving through an eightspeed double clutch gearbox. There were no claimed performance numbers offered for some unknown reason, but this model is said to sip diesel at a rate of only 4.2-litres per 100km on average.
The larger CLA Coupe features a longer wheelbase and wider track and this not only allows for increased interior space, but also for a ride that is more compliant but still as dynamic as ever.
Being a premium car means that you are spoilt for choice once again when it comes to equipment features and customisation options. From 18-inch wheels, visible exhaust tips and chrome finishes to sporty AMG Line options that see an AMG front apron, AMG rear apron and side sill panels, sports seats, multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather, light longitudinal-grain aluminium trim elements or black DINAMICA microfibre being fitted on a lowered suspension.
Inside it is a tech fest of the latest in digital displays and functionality nicely finished off by the now signature turbine-look air vents. This is a compact coupe but a young family or couples will find it offers more than enough interior space for their needs.