The Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY, produced from January 2013 to May 2016, represents the entry point into the C117 CLA Coupe range. Positioned as a stylish and relatively affordable option within the compact executive class, the CLA 180 aimed to attract buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and a premium badge. It was a key component of Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to broaden its appeal to a younger demographic, leveraging the A-Class (W176) platform – known internally as the 1HX0 – to create a four-door coupe silhouette. This variant offered a balance between comfort, technology, and economy, making it a popular choice in European markets and beyond.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Coupe (C117) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 180 (122 Hp) BlueEFFICIENCY |
| Start of production | January, 2013 |
| End of production | May, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 117 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm, 143.9 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 DE 16 AL red. |
| 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 | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 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 | 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY is powered by the M 270 DE 16 AL red. engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is part of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, designed for efficiency and scalability. It features direct fuel injection, a single turbocharger with an intercooler, and variable valve timing. The engine produces 122 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque between 1,250 and 4,000 rpm. The engine’s relatively low compression ratio of 10.3:1 contributes to its ability to run on standard gasoline. The standard transmission for this variant was a 6-speed manual gearbox, although a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-DCT) was available as an option. The automatic transmission offered smoother shifts and enhanced convenience, but at the expense of slightly reduced fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 180, with its 122 hp and front-wheel drive configuration, delivered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 9.9 seconds. While not particularly sporty, the engine provided sufficient power for highway cruising and urban commutes. The turbocharger helped to mitigate turbo lag, providing a reasonably responsive throttle. Compared to the more powerful CLA 250 variants, the 180 felt noticeably less energetic, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The manual transmission offered a more engaging driving experience, while the optional automatic provided greater ease of use. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, resulting in a slightly less dynamic feel compared to the sportier trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, a basic audio system, and electric windows. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a more advanced infotainment system with a larger display screen, navigation, leather upholstery, a sunroof, and various driver assistance systems like parking sensors and collision prevention assist. The ‘BlueEFFICIENCY’ designation indicated the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies such as start-stop functionality and optimized aerodynamics. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available at an extra cost. Dashboard trim could be customized with various materials and finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 180 utilized a fully independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. The front suspension featured ventilated disc brakes, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, ensuring safe and controlled braking in various conditions. The steering was electrically assisted, providing a light and precise feel. The relatively low weight of the CLA 180, at around 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs), contributed to its agility and fuel efficiency. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY 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 attractive design. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its more powerful siblings. Compared to the CLA 200 and CLA 250, the 180 offered a more economical option, but at the expense of performance. In terms of reliability, the M 270 engine proved to be generally dependable, although some owners reported minor issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with the CLA 180 achieving around 5 liters per 100 km (47 US mpg) in combined driving.
Legacy
The CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a stylish and fuel-efficient compact executive car. The M 270 engine, while not known for its blistering performance, has proven to be relatively reliable with proper maintenance. The CLA’s distinctive coupe-like styling continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers. While newer models offer more advanced technology and improved performance, the C117 CLA 180 represents a compelling value proposition for those seeking a premium brand experience at an accessible price point. Its success helped establish the CLA as a significant model within the Mercedes-Benz lineup, paving the way for subsequent generations.
