New Mercedes coupé ticks all boxes
THE new Mercedes-Benz CLA 4-door coupé – successor to a model widely regarded as a design icon when first introduced here six years ago – is one of the best-looking new cars on our roads.
And packed with high-tech, with frugal running costs, low emissions and a rewarding drive, the new coupé, destined to be flag-bearer for MercedesBenz’s increasingly popular New Generation Compact Cars, is set to strengthen the marque’s strong position in a crowded market place.
I recently had the pleasure of a weekend in the company of an AMG version of a stylish new CLA200 coupé version and a very enjoyable weekend it was too, despite the deluge of rain which would have made a boat test more appropriate.
The test car – provided by Wexford-based main dealer Boland Mercedes – was powered by a very willing and able 1.3 litre turbo-charged petrol engine, which more than delivered, with a 0 to 100km/h time of 8.9 seconds. It was a comfortable cruiser too and felt equally at home on motorway and (badly surfaced) town and country roads, despite the inclement weather.
I was very impressed with the drive which will definitely appeal to those who like to be engaged with their driving, coupled to an impressive array of high-tech driver assistance features that combine with new design elements and subtle body and interior detailing that give it a fresh new appeal whilst preserving all of its original allure.
I must say the AMG styling on the test model was very impressive and straight out of the top drawer.
The wide track, low-slung, coupé-like body with front diamond patterned grille and bold central star, point to the new CLA Coupé’s sporty character – an effect accentuated by subtle power domes, a wider track, flared arches and set back position of the passenger area. At the rear, design changes to its bumper and tail lamps give an added sense of width.
Changes in the new model are especially evident inside as high-tech enhancements and eye-catching design elements predominate.
Interior architecture is shaped by the avant-garde design of the dashboard. Departing from the cowl-like cover that normally shields the dials and gauges, designers have taken a fresh approach to the way dials are displayed with a dashboard design that extends from door to door with no visual break. Another arresting feature is the wide screen on which infotainment commands and controls are relayed which appears to float, visually detached in a freestanding way.
The CLA Coupé is available with a broad range of petrol and diesel engines and three design lines: Style, Progressive and AMG. The marque says the most popular models here will be a 180 petrol version priced from €34,110 (with annual road tax of €270) and a 180d automatic version priced from €37,300 (with annual road tax €180). AMG versions are priced from just over €40,000 for the CLA 180. All prices are plus delivery and related charges.
Noting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to what it calls ‘ highly intelligent’ in-car technology that is ‘revolutionising’ car operation and communications, the CLA will appeal to all who appreciate the assistance and convenience it brings.
Crammed with computerinfotainment and assistance systems, it comes with a suite of features that includes full-colour displays, navigation and augmented reality aids, voice activated controls, and software that can actually ‘ learn’ what the driver’s needs may be. Available as options for those with a technological leaning are three different technology packs – Advantage Pack, Premium Pack and a Premium Plus Pack.