The Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 Shooting Brake (X117, facelift 2016) represents the entry point into the CLA Shooting Brake range, a stylish and practical compact estate car. Introduced in April 2016 as part of the X117 facelift, this variant was produced through May 2018. It aimed to offer a blend of Mercedes-Benz luxury, practicality, and relatively accessible pricing within the premium compact segment. Positioned below the CLA 200 and CLA 250 models, the 180 catered to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience over outright performance. It was primarily sold in the European market, where the Shooting Brake body style – a wagon – is highly favored.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 180 (122 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2016 |
| End of production | May, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.9-7.4 l/100 km (29.8 – 31.8 US mpg, 35.8 – 38.2 UK mpg, 12.7 – 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9-4.4 l/100 km (48 – 53.5 US mpg, 57.6 – 64.2 UK mpg, 20.4 – 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.0-5.5 l/100 km (39.2 – 42.8 US mpg, 47.1 – 51.4 UK mpg, 16.7 – 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 140-128 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp, 90 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 147.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1250-4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1250-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 270 |
| Engine displacement | 1595 cm3 (97.33 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1355 kg (2987.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1955 kg (4310.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 715 kg (1576.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 4640 mm (182.68 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 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.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake, launched with the 2016 facelift (internally designated as the X117), builds upon the foundation of the original CLA Shooting Brake introduced in 2013. The X117 series is based on the Mercedes-Benz MFA (Modular Front-wheel Drive Architecture) platform, shared with other compact models like the A-Class and GLA. The facelift brought styling revisions, updated technology, and refinements to the engine range. The CLA 180 specifically was designed to be an accessible entry point into the CLA range, offering a more economical option for buyers who didn’t require the higher performance of the CLA 200 or CLA 250. It aimed to appeal to those seeking a stylish, practical, and fuel-efficient vehicle for daily use.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake utilizes the M 270 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, common across several Mercedes-Benz models, is known for its efficiency and responsiveness. The engine code for this variant is typically found as 270.920. It features direct fuel injection, a single turbocharger with an intercooler, and four valves per cylinder. The turbocharger provides a boost in power and torque, compensating for the relatively small displacement. The engine produces 122 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque between 1250 and 4000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The CLA 180 was primarily offered with a 6-speed manual transmission, although a 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission was also available as an option. The automatic transmission offers quicker shifts and improved fuel economy, but at an additional cost.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake, with its 122 hp and front-wheel drive configuration, delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 9.1 seconds. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. The turbocharger helps to deliver a reasonable amount of torque at low engine speeds, making it easy to navigate city traffic. Compared to the CLA 200, the 180 feels noticeably less powerful, especially during overtaking maneuvers. The manual transmission offers a more engaging driving experience, while the optional automatic transmission prioritizes convenience and smoothness. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can feel slightly strained when pushed hard. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a multimedia system with a central display screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but common options included alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, parking sensors, and a premium sound system. The dashboard layout was consistent across the CLA range, featuring a modern and stylish design. The base trim was fairly minimalist, with optional packages available to add more luxury and convenience features.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provides a good balance between comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s fuel efficiency and agility. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The standard tire size is 205/55 R16, providing a good compromise between comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake was generally well-received by critics as an affordable and stylish entry point into the Mercedes-Benz range. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical estate car body style. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the power and refinement of its larger siblings. Compared to the CLA 200, the 180 offered significantly better fuel economy but at the expense of performance. The CLA 180 also competed with other premium compact estates, such as the Audi A3 Sportback and BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer. Its main advantage over these rivals was its distinctive styling and the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
Legacy
The M 270 engine, used in the CLA 180, has proven to be a relatively reliable unit, although some owners have reported issues with the timing chain and oil leaks over the long term. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing chain inspections, is crucial to ensure its longevity. The CLA 180 Shooting Brake remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a stylish and practical vehicle at an affordable price. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for those looking for a premium compact estate. The X117 facelift model, with its updated styling and technology, is generally considered to be a more desirable option than the pre-facelift version.
