The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 CDI Shooting Brake (X117), produced from March 2015 to April 2016, represented an entry-level diesel option within the CLA Shooting Brake range. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical variant, it aimed to broaden the appeal of the CLA – a compact, four-door coupe – by offering the versatility of a wagon body style. This model combined a 2.1-liter turbocharged diesel engine with Mercedes-Benz’s 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission, targeting buyers seeking a balance between economy, comfort, and the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand. It was part of the X117 series, built on the MFA (Modular Front-wheel drive Architecture) platform shared with other compact Mercedes-Benz models like the A-Class and GLA.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 200 CDI (136 Hp) 7G-DCT |
| Start of production | March, 2015 |
| End of production | April, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9-4.7 l/100 km (48 – 50 US mpg, 57.6 – 60.1 UK mpg, 20.4 – 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7-3.4 l/100 km (63.6 – 69.2 US mpg, 76.3 – 83.1 UK mpg, 27 – 29.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2-3.9 l/100 km (56 – 60.3 US mpg, 67.3 – 72.4 UK mpg, 23.8 – 25.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 111-101 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 192.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 3200-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1400-3000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651.930 |
| Engine displacement | 2143 cm3 (130.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1555 kg (3428.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2050 kg (4519.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495 kg (1091.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1354 l (47.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4630 mm (182.28 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2699 mm (106.26 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 200 CDI Shooting Brake utilized the OM651.930 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a mainstay in many Mercedes-Benz compact models, known for its robust construction and fuel efficiency. It featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output, and a common-rail direct fuel injection system operating at very high pressures (1600 bar) for optimized combustion. The engine produced 136 horsepower at 3200-4000 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 1400-3000 rpm. This torque curve provided good low-end responsiveness, making it suitable for everyday driving. The 7G-DCT (7-speed dual-clutch transmission) was a key component, offering quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission allowed for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles, enhancing driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 hp output and 7G-DCT transmission delivered a comfortable and efficient driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.4 seconds, and top speed was limited to 133.59 mph. While not a performance-oriented variant, the CLA 200 CDI offered sufficient power for highway cruising and overtaking. The 7G-DCT transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy, with taller gears for relaxed cruising. Compared to the more powerful CLA 250 models, the 200 CDI felt less eager to accelerate, but its superior fuel economy (achieving up to 60.3 US mpg combined) made it a more practical choice for those prioritizing efficiency. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, although it lacked the all-wheel-drive stability of some other CLA variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 200 CDI Shooting Brake typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic infotainment system with a central display screen. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, although leather options were available as upgrades. Standard safety equipment included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a larger infotainment screen with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, upgraded sound system, and various driver assistance systems like lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 200 CDI Shooting Brake utilized an independent multi-link suspension on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride quality. The front suspension featured ventilated disc brakes, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and handling, offering a relatively compliant ride without excessive body roll. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance. Tire size was typically 205/55 R16, mounted on 16-inch alloy wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 200 CDI Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option within the CLA range. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior (for its class), and attractive styling. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, particularly when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the CLA 250, the 200 CDI offered significantly better fuel economy but lacked the same level of performance. Against competitors like the Audi A3 Sportback and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, the CLA 200 CDI offered a compelling combination of style, practicality, and efficiency.
Legacy
The OM651 engine family, including the 2.1-liter unit in the CLA 200 CDI, has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. While diesel engines generally require more diligent maintenance (including regular DPF regeneration), these engines are known for their longevity. On the used car market, the CLA 200 CDI Shooting Brake represents a relatively affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand. Its fuel efficiency and practicality continue to appeal to buyers seeking a stylish and economical wagon. However, potential buyers should be aware of the importance of maintaining the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and ensuring regular servicing to avoid potential issues.
