The 2014Mercedes-BenzCLA-Class has made its first appearance at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. The company has dubbed the CLA a ‘style rebel’ which takes its design cues from the CLS and features leading aerodynamics, avant-garde coupe design and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. With its frameless doors, the four-door coupe carries the design of the Concept Style Coupe into series production.

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA is big on style

Engine Capability

The CLA250 and CLA250 4MATIC are powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that delivers 155kW with a maximum torque figure of 350Nm. The CLA is fitted with sports suspension and features 4MATIC all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution that improves traction and agility while providing higher levels of safety and efficiency. The CLA250 is fitted with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission and ECO stop/start function is fitted as standard.

Exterior Styling Features

Striking features of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA include its hood with power domes and the diamond-look grille. The headlight and LED arrangement behind the headlamp lens offers a ‘flame effect’ for the optional Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and indicators and is a key aspect of the car. Three prominent lines provide structure with the front structural edge above the fenders flowing towards the rear in a characteristic dropping line. The second line spans the shoulder muscle above the rear axle while the third line extends in a sweeping curve from the front wheel towards the rear. These lines add depth to the CLA’s side profile.

The tail lights are framed by the muscular shoulder lines extending to the rear while the horizontal light layout emphasises the car’s stance and breadth. The C-pillars are drawn-in and the sloping roofline gives the CLA its distinct coupe styling. A large panorama sunroof is available as an option and the CLA is fitted with 17-inch, 5-spoke, two-tone wheels as standard.

Interior Styling Features

Standard trim for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA is an Anthracite surface finish with additional trim options including burl walnut wood, black ash wood and aluminium. Five air-vents are included in the instrument panel with the outer rings in a high-quality galvanised finish. The CLA comes with the mbrace2 connectivity service giving users access to a range of online services and apps by linking to smartphones. A 5.8-inch display and Bluetooth are standard features for the CLA250 and the CLA250 4MATIC.

??Safety Features??

Standard safety features include the Attention Assist drowsiness detection and the radar-based Collision Prevention Assist with adaptive Brake Assist which offers collision protection. The Driver Assistance Package offers Distronic as well as Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist. Parktronic with Advance Parking Assist allows for autonomous parking in parallel and perpendicular parking spaces and is available as an option.

Although the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA made a brief appearance at the Detroit Auto Show, it will celebrate its official world premiere at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Berlin held from 5-18 January 2013. It is unclear if or when the CLA will make it to South Africa.