Mercedes-Benz CLA verdict
Should I buy a Mercedes-Benz CLA?
That's the sixty-four thousand dollar question, because in effect you're paying more for less. An A-Class remains the better family car because of the greater practicality of a hatchback, but for drivers who prioritise eye-catching looks and compact dimensions, the second-generation CLA is a class act. So, if practicality is not high on your list, we recommend the CLA.
Wider and with a broader footprint than before, the Mercedes-Benz CLA offers better cornering stability and interior space for passengers front and rear compared with its predecessor. For those reasons alone it's worth considering as an alternative to regular compact saloons.
Add to that a more practical boot aperture and enhanced driver assistance tech, and this small coupe’s styling is no longer the major selling point. We'd even consider it over the regular C-Class, especially if you're likely to be the only person in the car most of the time. It looks and feels more special and is far more modern in terms of the equipment and technology on offer.
It also remains in something of a class of its own. At the time of writing, the Audi A3 Saloon is about to be replaced, and if it's as good as the hatch, you should take it very seriously indeed. BMW's 2 Series Gran Coupe is good, but the CLA pips it in our opinion. In fact, the CLA's main competition comes from Mercedes-Benz - the A-Class Saloon.
