The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 Coupe (C117 facelift), produced from April 2016 to December 2018, represented a key offering within the compact luxury segment. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the CLA lineup, it bridged the gap between the entry-level CLA 200 and the performance-oriented CLA 45 AMG. The facelift, introduced in 2016, brought styling revisions, updated technology, and refinements to the powertrain, solidifying the CLA’s appeal as a stylish and technologically advanced coupe. This variant was primarily marketed towards younger buyers seeking a premium experience with a focus on design and technology, rather than outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Coupe (C117, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 250 (211 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2016 |
| End of production | December, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.8-8.6 l/100 km (26.7 – 27.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3-5.0 l/100 km (44.4 – 47 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6-6.4 l/100 km (35.6 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 153-148 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 154 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 255.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 211 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1200-4000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1200-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 270.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1965 kg (4332.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 720 kg (1587.33 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 (turning diameter) | 11.00 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 | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The C117 generation Mercedes-Benz CLA, launched in 2013, was a pivotal model for the brand, aiming to attract a younger demographic with its sleek, coupe-like styling. The 2016 facelift brought a more refined aesthetic and technological upgrades. The CLA 250, powered by the M270.920 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, was a popular choice, offering a balance of performance and efficiency. It sat comfortably in the middle of the CLA range, providing more power than the CLA 200 but without the high price tag and aggressive performance of the CLA 45 AMG.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLA 250 is the M270.920 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a key member of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its compact design and efficiency. It features direct fuel injection, a single turbocharger with an intercooler, and variable valve timing. The engine produces 211 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1200 and 4000 rpm. The engine utilizes a timing chain for durability. The CLA 250 was typically paired with a 7G-DCT (7-speed dual-clutch transmission), although a 6-speed manual transmission was also available in some markets. The 7G-DCT provides quick and smooth gear changes, enhancing both performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 250 offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a sports car, the 211 hp engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and occasional spirited acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint took around 6.3 seconds. The 7G-DCT transmission contributed to responsive acceleration, and the engine’s broad torque curve made it easy to navigate traffic. Compared to the base CLA 200, the 250 offered noticeably more power and a more engaging driving experience. However, it lacked the raw performance and sharper handling of the CLA 45 AMG. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces, but it could feel slightly soft during aggressive cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 250 came standard with a generous amount of equipment, including automatic climate control, a 7-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features like collision prevention assist. Optional extras included a larger 8-inch display, navigation system, premium sound system, leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior trim options ranged from aluminum to wood finishes, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin. The standard seats were comfortable and supportive, and the overall interior design was modern and upscale.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 250 utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The steering was precise and well-weighted, although it lacked some of the feedback found in more performance-oriented vehicles. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The CLA 250’s chassis was designed to be lightweight, contributing to its agility and fuel efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 250 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and efficient engine. However, some reviewers noted that the rear seats were somewhat cramped and that the ride could be a bit firm on rough roads. Compared to its rivals, such as the Audi A3 and BMW 2 Series Coupe, the CLA 250 offered a unique blend of style and technology. Fuel economy was competitive, with combined figures ranging from 35.6 to 36.8 US mpg. Reliability reports were generally positive, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 (C117 facelift) remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of style, technology, and reasonable running costs makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking a premium compact coupe. The M270 engine, while not without its potential issues (such as carbon buildup with infrequent oil changes), is generally considered reliable when properly maintained. Parts availability is good, and the CLA 250’s relatively modern technology ensures that it still feels contemporary today. The C117 CLA helped establish Mercedes-Benz as a leader in the compact luxury segment, paving the way for future models like the current-generation CLA.
