The Mercedes-Benz CLA 180d BlueEFFICIENCY Edition, produced from April 2016 to May 2018, represents an entry-level variant within the X117 CLA Shooting Brake (estate) facelift range. Positioned as a fuel-efficient option, it catered to European markets prioritizing low running costs and practicality. This model combined a relatively modest diesel engine with a six-speed manual transmission, offering a balance between affordability and the prestige associated with the Mercedes-Benz brand. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a stylish and versatile vehicle without the higher price tag of more powerful CLA variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 180d (109 Hp) BlueEFFICIENCY Edition |
| 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) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg, 85.6 UK mpg, 30.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 94 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.8 kg/Hp, 78.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 187.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 607.951 |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1985 kg (4376.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 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 | 11.00 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 Mercedes-Benz CLA 180d BlueEFFICIENCY Edition, part of the X117 series facelift introduced in 2016, was a key offering in the compact executive class. The X117 generation CLA, based on the MFA (Modular Front-wheel Drive Architecture) platform shared with the A-Class and GLA, aimed to attract a younger demographic with its coupe-like styling. The “Shooting Brake” body style, essentially a station wagon, provided increased practicality compared to the four-door coupe. The 180d variant, with its 1.5-liter diesel engine, was specifically engineered for markets where fuel economy and lower emissions were paramount, particularly in Europe. This facelift brought subtle styling revisions, updated infotainment systems, and improvements to the engine range, including the OM607.951 diesel.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLA 180d BlueEFFICIENCY Edition lies the OM607.951 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, designed for efficiency and reduced weight. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque, and utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery. The engine produces 109 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. A key feature of this engine is its particulate filter, designed to reduce harmful emissions and meet stringent Euro 6 standards. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a relatively long gearing to maximize fuel efficiency. While an automatic transmission was available as an option on other CLA models, the 180d was primarily offered with the manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 180d, with its 109 hp and manual transmission, delivers a driving experience focused on efficiency rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.9 seconds, and top speed is limited to 190 km/h (118 mph). The long gearing of the manual transmission contributes to relaxed cruising at highway speeds, but requires frequent downshifts for quicker acceleration. Compared to the more powerful CLA 200 or CLA 250 models, the 180d feels noticeably slower. However, the engine provides adequate torque for everyday driving situations, and the manual gearbox offers a more engaging driving experience than an automatic. The steering is precise, and the suspension provides a comfortable ride, although it can feel slightly firm on rough roads.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The BlueEFFICIENCY Edition trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic infotainment system with a central display screen. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded infotainment system with navigation, parking sensors, and various driver assistance systems. The overall interior design mirrored that of the A-Class, with a focus on modern aesthetics and user-friendly controls. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation indicated a focus on fuel-saving technologies and aerodynamic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 180d utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing 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, ensuring safe and controlled braking in various conditions. The chassis is tuned for comfort, with a relatively soft suspension setup. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The weight distribution is fairly balanced, contributing to predictable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 180d BlueEFFICIENCY Edition was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical option within the CLA range. Its fuel economy of around 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg) was a major selling point, particularly in Europe. Compared to the CLA 200, the 180d offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance. The CLA 200, with its more powerful gasoline engine, provided quicker acceleration and a more dynamic driving experience, but at the expense of fuel efficiency. The 180d was often seen as a sensible choice for buyers prioritizing practicality and economy over outright performance.
Legacy
The OM607.951 engine, while not known for being exceptionally robust, has proven to be reasonably reliable with regular maintenance. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly with frequent short journeys, and potential problems with the turbocharger. However, these issues are generally manageable with preventative maintenance and proper servicing. On the used car market, the CLA 180d BlueEFFICIENCY Edition remains an affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance costs make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The X117 CLA, in general, has established itself as a stylish and practical compact executive car, and the 180d variant continues to offer a compelling value proposition.
