Overview

The second-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA is as hard to pin down as ever – does it compete against the best saloons, the best coupes or both? Or neither? In reality, trying to categorise a car like this is a pointless exercise. If it works for you, and you like the way it looks, then does it really matter? But perhaps before you pull the trigger we should investigate whether it’s actually any good – you can find out how we test cars on our dedicated explainer page – and let you know that although this model was updated as recently as 2023, an all-new third-generation CLA will shortly be on the way.

It’s also worth bearing in mind the alternatives to this car – after all, it wouldn’t do to have a shopping list of one. Not when there are so many good cars out there. Closest to the CLA in concept is the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe which looks very different from the other models in the 2 Series lineup. You’d possibly also consider the Audi A3 Saloon or perhaps the stylish Peugeot 508 Fastback.

The most baffling comparison might be with the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Saloon which looks rather similar to the CLA – the latter’s more dramatic roofline isn’t that obvious unless you put the two side-by-side. Compared with the A-Class saloon, the CLA Coupe is a sleek and stylish-looking car, with a low roofline and frameless side windows.

The CLA is available with petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid power – all of which use an automatic gearbox. There are performance versions modified by Mercedes-AMG called the CLA 35 and CLA 45; these offer substantially more punch from their 2.0-litre turbocharged engines but also cost a hefty premium, too.

With this impressive model range, the CLA looks very tempting indeed. The big question is whether it’s worth the additional money over an A-Class saloon and should it go to the top of your shopping list when there are more practical options on offer.

Click through the next few pages to read everything you need to know about the Mercedes-Benz CLA including its practicality, how much it costs to run, what it’s like to drive – and, most importantly, whether we recommend buying one.