The Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d 4MATIC DCT, produced from April 2016 to May 2018, represents a compelling blend of efficiency, performance, and luxury within the C117 CLA Coupe facelift range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it catered to buyers seeking a sophisticated and economical entry point into the Mercedes-Benz coupe market, while still providing all-wheel drive capability. This variant was a key component of Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to attract a younger demographic with its stylish design and advanced technology. It built upon the foundation of the C117 platform, shared with the A-Class and GLA, offering a more coupe-focused aesthetic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Coupe (C117, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 220d (177 Hp) 4MATIC DCT |
| Start of production | April, 2016 |
| End of production | May, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8-5.5 l/100 km (40.6 – 42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3-4.0 l/100 km (54.7 – 58.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9-4.6 l/100 km (48 – 51.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 127-119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 231.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 3600-3800 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1400-3400 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3400 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 capacity | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1510 kg (3328.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2065 kg (4552.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 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 | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4640 mm (182.68 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.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.00 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-DCT |
| 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 | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 220d 4MATIC DCT is powered by the OM651.930, a 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a mainstay in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, known for its robust construction and fuel efficiency. It utilizes a second-generation common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at pressures up to 2,000 bar for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance, providing 177 horsepower at 3600-3800 rpm and a substantial 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1400 and 3400 rpm. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 16.2:1. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. Paired with the engine is the 7G-DCT (7-speed dual-clutch transmission), offering quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission contributes to both performance and fuel economy, and is a key element of the driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 220d 4MATIC DCT delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 177 hp engine and 7-speed dual-clutch transmission provide adequate acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 7.3 seconds. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensures confident handling in various weather conditions. Compared to the more powerful CLA 250 or AMG variants, the 220d prioritizes fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising. The gear ratios are tuned for optimal fuel economy, with taller gearing in higher gears. The dual-clutch transmission offers responsive shifts, but can occasionally exhibit some low-speed jerkiness. The steering is precise, but lacks the feedback found in more performance-oriented vehicles.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 220d 4MATIC DCT typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a multimedia system with a 7-inch display screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features including collision prevention assist and attention assist. Interior upholstery was generally Artico leatherette, with options for genuine leather upgrades. Common optional extras included a larger 8-inch display screen, navigation system, panoramic sunroof, and premium sound system. Trim levels varied slightly by market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together. The overall interior design emphasized a modern and sporty aesthetic, with a focus on high-quality materials and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 220d 4MATIC DCT utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a good balance between comfort and handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brakeforce distribution. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 220d 4MATIC DCT was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and stylish design. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when pushed hard, and the interior space was somewhat limited for a vehicle of its size. Compared to the CLA 250, the 220d offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The 220d also provided a more economical alternative to the higher-end CLA 45 AMG. Its fuel economy figures of 48-51 mpg combined made it a particularly attractive option for drivers covering long distances.
Legacy
The OM651 engine family, including the version used in the CLA 220d, has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. With proper maintenance, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The 7G-DCT transmission is also generally reliable, although some owners have reported issues with the mechatronic unit. On the used car market, the CLA 220d 4MATIC DCT remains a popular choice, offering a good balance of value, efficiency, and luxury. Its relatively low running costs and proven reliability make it an appealing option for buyers seeking a premium compact coupe.
