The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250, specifically the facelifted version produced from April 2016 to December 2018 (C117 chassis), represented a compelling entry point into the premium compact coupe market. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the CLA lineup, it bridged the gap between the base CLA 200 models and the performance-oriented CLA 45 AMG. This variant combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and luxury features. The CLA, in general, aimed to attract a younger demographic to the Mercedes-Benz brand with its sleek styling and relatively accessible price point.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Coupe (C117, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 250 (211 Hp) DCT |
| 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) | 8.0-7.9 l/100 km (29.4 – 29.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9-4.7 l/100 km (48 – 50 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.0-5.8 l/100 km (39.2 – 40.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 140-136 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 150.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 250 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 | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1965 kg (4332.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 565 kg (1245.61 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 | 735 kg (1620.4 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 | 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The facelifted Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 (C117) arrived in April 2016, bringing with it revised styling, updated technology, and refinements to the powertrain. Built on the MFA (Modular Front-wheel Drive Architecture) platform – also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform shared with other compact Mercedes-Benz and Renault models – the CLA aimed to offer a more stylish and accessible alternative to the traditional C-Class sedan. The 250 variant, powered by the M270 engine and paired with the 7G-DCT transmission, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It sat comfortably in the middle of the CLA range, offering more power than the CLA 200 but without the significantly higher price tag of the CLA 45 AMG.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLA 250 lies 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 M270 engine produces 211 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1200 and 4000 rpm. The 7G-DCT (7-speed dual-clutch transmission) is a crucial component of the CLA 250’s driving experience. This transmission offers quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The DCT operates with two separate clutches, one for even and one for odd gears, allowing for pre-selection of the next gear and minimizing interruption in power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 250 with the 7G-DCT delivers a refined and responsive driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.2 seconds, making it reasonably quick for its class. The DCT transmission provides seamless shifts, especially in automatic mode, and allows for manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. While not as aggressively tuned as the CLA 45 AMG, the CLA 250 offers ample power for everyday driving and highway overtaking. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a relatively tall seventh gear for comfortable cruising. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other CLA models, the DCT provides a more effortless and convenient driving experience, albeit with a slight reduction in driver engagement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 250 came standard with a generous array of features, including automatic climate control, a 7-inch infotainment display with a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features like collision prevention assist. Interior upholstery typically consisted of Artico leatherette or optional genuine leather. Trim levels offered various upgrades, such as larger infotainment screens, premium audio systems (Harman Kardon), panoramic sunroofs, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Optional packages could significantly enhance the luxury and convenience of the CLA 250.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 250 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The steering is electrically assisted, offering precise and responsive control. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, along with electronic stability control. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, but the CLA 250 still offers a reasonably engaging driving experience, particularly when equipped with the optional sport suspension.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 250 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its stylish design, comfortable interior, and responsive powertrain. However, some reviewers noted the relatively cramped rear seating and limited trunk space compared to some competitors. Compared to the CLA 200, the 250 offered a significant performance boost, making it a more enjoyable driving experience. In contrast to the CLA 45 AMG, the 250 was more affordable and fuel-efficient, appealing to a broader range of buyers. Fuel economy figures of around 39.2-40.6 US mpg combined were competitive for its class. Reliability reports generally indicate good overall reliability, although some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system and electrical components.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 (C117) has proven to be a popular choice in the used car market. The M270 engine and 7G-DCT transmission have demonstrated reasonable long-term reliability, although regular maintenance is crucial. The CLA 250’s combination of style, performance, and luxury continues to appeal to buyers seeking a premium compact coupe. Its relatively accessible price point and good fuel economy make it a practical and desirable option in the used car segment. The C117 CLA, and the 250 variant specifically, helped establish Mercedes-Benz as a player in the entry-level luxury market, attracting a new generation of customers to the brand.
