Overpriced for what you get is one comment in our CLA250 tester’s logbook that seems to sum up this entry-level Mercedes. “It’s a really nice Civic,” said another. “If this were my first M-B, I may not get another,” said one driver. Other staff pointed out that despite the car’s high style, there is little content here for the money.
So what went wrong?
When you have $36,000 to spend on a stylish and sporty car, you expect to get some decent metal for your moolah. The problem with the CLA is that you’re not likely to get one near the tempting $30,000 base price, since features such as heated seats, automatic climate control, and iPod control cost extra. And a backup camera—which this long-slung coupelike looker desperately needs—only comes with a $2,370 multimedia package.
Dynamically, the CLA falls on its face with an uncomfortable ride, uninspired drivetrain, and poor visibility. While the styling drew a fair amount of admiring glances and its 28 mpg overall fuel economy is commendable, the overall package fails to ignite any passion at our track.
This was a car that was supposed to be Mercedes' savior to bring less-affluent buyers into the fold. Our testers think those shoppers could do better elsewhere.
