The Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 (C118), produced from 2019 to January 2023, represents the entry point into the second-generation CLA Coupe (C118) model range. Positioned as a stylish and relatively affordable option within the premium compact segment, the CLA 180 aimed to attract buyers prioritizing aesthetics and brand prestige over outright performance. It’s built on the MFA2 (Mercedes-Benz Front-wheel-drive Architecture 2) platform, shared with other compact Mercedes-Benz models like the A-Class and GLA. This variant primarily served the European market, where fuel efficiency and lower purchase prices are significant consumer considerations. The CLA 180 offered a blend of modern technology, comfortable interior appointments, and the recognizable Mercedes-Benz design language.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Coupe (C118) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 180 (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | January, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 132-153 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.4-7.5 l/100 km (31.8 – 31.4 US mpg, 38.2 – 37.7 UK mpg, 13.5 – 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.3-4.6 l/100 km (54.7 – 51.1 US mpg, 65.7 – 61.4 UK mpg, 23.3 – 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.5-5.7 l/100 km (42.8 – 41.3 US mpg, 51.4 – 49.6 UK mpg, 18.2 – 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 125-130 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 216 km/h (134.22 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp, 103 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 151.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp |
| Power per litre | 102.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1460 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1460 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 282 DE 14 AL |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 695 kg (1532.21 lbs.) |
| Length | 4688 mm (184.57 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Height | 1439 mm (56.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2729 mm (107.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1612 mm (63.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1612 mm (63.46 in.) |
| Front overhang | 927 mm (36.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1032 mm (40.63 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 104 mm (4.09 in.) |
| Approach angle | 13.4° |
| Departure angle | 14.3° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 9.4° |
| 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 |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 180 utilizes the M 282 DE 14 AL 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, designed for efficiency and scalability. It features direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler, producing 136 horsepower and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque at 1460 rpm. The engine incorporates technologies like variable valve timing and a high-pressure fuel injection system to optimize combustion. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The standard transmission for the CLA 180 is a 6-speed manual gearbox, although a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (7G-DCT) was also available as an option. The 7G-DCT provides quicker shifts and improved fuel economy, but at an additional cost.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 180, with its 136 hp and front-wheel drive configuration, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 9.4 seconds. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides sufficient power for merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic. The 6-speed manual transmission offers a reasonably engaging driving experience, but the gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright acceleration. Compared to higher-output CLA variants like the CLA 250, the 180 feels noticeably less powerful. The automatic transmission, when equipped, offers smooth shifts but can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration. The front-wheel-drive setup provides good traction in most conditions, but can exhibit torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 180 typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist. Interior upholstery was typically fabric, with options for leatherette or genuine leather available at extra cost. Common optional extras included larger touchscreen displays, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled together popular options like parking assist and navigation. The interior design mirrored that of other compact Mercedes-Benz models, with a focus on modern aesthetics and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 180 utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride over most road surfaces. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, although some base models may have been equipped with drum brakes on the rear axle. Electronic stability control (ESC) and anti-lock braking system (ABS) are standard features. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 180 was generally well-received by critics as an attractive and affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its more powerful siblings. Fuel economy was praised, with combined fuel consumption figures ranging from 5.5 to 5.7 l/100 km (42.8 – 41.3 US mpg). Compared to the CLA 200, which featured a more powerful engine, the 180 offered a lower purchase price but compromised on performance. The CLA 180 also competed with other premium compact cars such as the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series, offering a similar blend of style, technology, and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The M 282 engine family, including the 1.3-liter unit found in the CLA 180, has proven to be relatively reliable. While some early models experienced minor issues with the fuel injection system, these were generally addressed through software updates. On the used car market, the CLA 180 represents a relatively affordable option for buyers seeking a stylish and well-equipped compact car. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, although servicing at authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships can be expensive. The CLA 180’s enduring appeal lies in its combination of brand prestige, modern design, and fuel-efficient powertrain.
