The Mercedes-Benz CLA 220 4MATIC, produced from 2019 to 2020, represents a compelling entry point into the premium compact coupe market. Part of the C118 generation CLA, this variant combined a 190 horsepower turbocharged engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7G-DCT) and Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the CLA lineup, it aimed to balance performance, efficiency, and luxury features, appealing to buyers seeking a stylish and technologically advanced vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Coupe (C118) |
| Type | CLA 220 (190 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-DCT |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 155-178 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 8.9-9.1 l/100 km (26.4 – 25.8 US mpg, 31.7 – 31 UK mpg, 11.2 – 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.2-5.3 l/100 km (45.2 – 44.4 US mpg, 54.3 – 53.3 UK mpg, 19.2 – 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.5-6.7 l/100 km (36.2 – 35.1 US mpg, 43.5 – 42.2 UK mpg, 15.4 – 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 149-153 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 237 km/h (147.26 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 204.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 190 Hp |
| Power per litre | 95.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1800 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 260 DE 20 AL |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt, 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt, 7.83 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1470 kg (3240.8 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2080 kg (4585.62 lbs) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal, 11.22 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 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° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-DCT |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The C118 Mercedes-Benz CLA, launched in 2013 and facelifted in 2019, was designed to attract a younger demographic to the Mercedes-Benz brand. The CLA 220 4MATIC, produced between 2019 and 2020, occupied a crucial position in the lineup, offering a balance between performance and affordability. Built on the MFA (Modular Front-wheel drive Architecture) platform – also underpinning the A-Class and GLA – the CLA prioritized style and technology. The 220 4MATIC variant specifically aimed to provide all-weather capability and a more refined driving experience than the base CLA 200 models.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLA 220 4MATIC lies the M 260 DE 20 AL engine, a 1.991-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with a single turbocharger and intercooler, producing 190 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 1800 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 7G-DCT (7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission) is a key component, offering quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission features 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. The 4MATIC system is a fully variable all-wheel-drive system, distributing torque between the front and rear axles as needed to optimize traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 220 4MATIC delivers a respectable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.7 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 147 mph. The 7G-DCT transmission contributes to responsive acceleration, and the 4MATIC system provides enhanced grip, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to the base CLA 200, the 220 offers noticeably more power and a more confident feel. However, it doesn’t match the performance of the more powerful CLA 250 or AMG variants. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency, with the lower gears providing brisk off-the-line performance and higher gears optimized for highway cruising. The steering is precise, but some drivers find it lacks the feedback of more traditional steering systems.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 220 4MATIC typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Interior upholstery was typically MB-Tex artificial leather, with options for genuine leather upgrades. Common optional extras included a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen display, a premium sound system, heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the package selected, but generally focused on aesthetic enhancements like different wheel designs and interior trim materials.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 220 4MATIC utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The suspension is tuned for a balance of comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels. The braking system is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Brake Assist. The 4MATIC system adds to the vehicle’s stability, particularly during braking on slippery surfaces. The CLA 220 4MATIC’s weight of approximately 3241 lbs is relatively low for its class, contributing to its agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 220 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and advanced technology. The 4MATIC system was a significant selling point for buyers in regions with inclement weather. Compared to the CLA 200, the 220 offered a worthwhile performance upgrade. However, some critics noted that the ride could be firm on rough roads and that the rear seat space was somewhat limited. Fuel economy was competitive for its class, averaging around 36 mpg combined. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The CLA 220 4MATIC has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The M 260 engine is known for its durability, and the 7G-DCT transmission has a good track record. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and transmission fluid services, is crucial for long-term reliability. The CLA’s stylish design and advanced features continue to appeal to buyers looking for a premium compact coupe. While newer models have since been released, the C118 CLA 220 4MATIC remains a compelling option for those seeking a well-rounded and technologically advanced vehicle at a reasonable price point.
