The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 Sport, produced from July 2015 to April 2016, represents a compelling entry point into the C117 CLA Coupe range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it blended sporty aesthetics with a respectable level of performance and technology. This variant aimed to attract buyers seeking a premium compact coupe experience without the higher price tag of the more powerful CLA 45 AMG model. The CLA 250 Sport occupied a significant space in the market, appealing to those desiring a stylish and relatively efficient vehicle with the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz badge.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Coupe (C117) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 250 (218 Hp) Sport |
| Start of production | July, 2015 |
| End of production | April, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 156 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 157.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 252.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 218 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 109.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1200-4000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1200-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 270.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1385 kg (3053.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1965 kg (4332.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 745 kg (1642.44 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4630 mm (182.28 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1432 mm (56.38 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2699 mm (106.26 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 915 mm (36.02 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1016 mm (40 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLA 250 Sport is the M270.920 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a key member of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its compact design and efficiency. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to produce 218 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1200 and 4000 rpm. The engine’s aluminum block and head contribute to its relatively lightweight construction. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, offering drivers a more engaging driving experience. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The M270 engine also incorporates start-stop technology to further enhance fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 250 Sport, with its 218 hp and front-wheel drive configuration, delivered a respectable, though not overwhelming, driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 6.2 seconds. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, but the engine doesn’t offer the same immediate responsiveness as naturally aspirated engines. The six-speed manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, but the gear ratios are tuned more for fuel efficiency than outright performance. Compared to the higher-performance CLA 45 AMG, the 250 Sport felt less urgent in its acceleration. However, it offered a more balanced and comfortable ride, making it suitable for daily commuting and longer journeys. The front-wheel drive setup provides good traction in most conditions, but can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “Sport” designation for this variant indicated a focus on aesthetics and driver engagement. Standard equipment included sport seats, a multi-function steering wheel, and aluminum pedal pads. The interior typically featured a combination of cloth and synthetic leather upholstery. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, navigation, and various driver assistance features like blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist. The dashboard layout was modern and stylish, with a prominent central display screen. The CLA 250 Sport aimed to provide a premium feel without the extensive customization options available on higher-end trims.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 250 Sport utilized an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Stabilizer bars were included on both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The chassis was designed to be relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility. The steering was electrically assisted, providing a responsive and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 250 Sport was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and respectable performance. However, some reviewers noted that the front-wheel drive configuration limited its handling potential compared to all-wheel drive competitors. Fuel economy was considered to be good for its class, averaging around 35.1 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the CLA 250 with the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the manual version offered a more engaging driving experience but slightly lower fuel efficiency. The CLA 250 Sport positioned itself as a more affordable alternative to the Audi A3 and BMW 2 Series coupes.
Legacy
The M270 engine, found in the CLA 250 Sport, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. Common issues, when they arise, often relate to the turbocharger or fuel injectors, but these are not widespread. The CLA 250 Sport remains a popular choice in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a stylish and well-equipped compact coupe at a reasonable price. Its combination of performance, efficiency, and Mercedes-Benz prestige ensures its continued relevance for years to come. The C117 CLA, and specifically the 250 Sport variant, helped establish Mercedes-Benz as a major player in the entry-level luxury coupe segment.
