Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Coupe (C118, facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 180d (116 Hp) 8G-DCT |
| Start of production | January, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.1-5.5 l/100 km (46.1 – 42.8 US mpg, 55.4 – 51.4 UK mpg, 19.6 – 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 133-145 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.1 kg/Hp, 76.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 184.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 3400-4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1300-2600 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1300-2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 654.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1950 cm3 (119 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.3 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2085 kg (4596.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 565 kg (1245.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 23.8 l (6.29 US gal | 5.24 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4688 mm (184.57 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1999 mm (78.7 in.) |
| Height | 1427 mm (56.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2729 mm (107.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Front overhang | 927 mm (36.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1032 mm (40.63 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.1 m (36.42 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 | 8 gears, automatic transmission G-DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| 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 | 205/55 R17; 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 180d, specifically the variant produced from January 2023 as part of the C118 facelift, represents the entry point into the CLA Coupe range. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and accessible option, this model combines a 1.95-liter turbocharged diesel engine with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (8G-DCT). It caters to buyers seeking a premium compact coupe experience with an emphasis on economy and practicality. The C118 generation CLA, built on the MFA2 platform (shared with other compact Mercedes-Benz models), aimed to refine the original CLA’s design and technology, offering a more sophisticated and comfortable driving experience.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 180d utilizes the OM 654.920 engine, a 1.95-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and refinement. It features a high-pressure common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for optimized combustion. The engine is turbocharged with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and intercooled, enhancing power and torque across a broad rev range. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further contributes to the engine’s performance. The 8G-DCT transmission is a dual-clutch transmission offering quick and smooth gear changes. It features eight forward gears, optimizing fuel efficiency and providing responsive acceleration. The transmission is electronically controlled, adapting to driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 116 horsepower and 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) of torque produced by the CLA 180d provide adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 10 seconds. While not a performance-oriented variant, the engine delivers a usable amount of power for merging onto highways and overtaking. The 8G-DCT transmission contributes to a smooth and refined driving experience, with quick shifts and minimal torque interruption. Compared to higher-output CLA variants like the CLA 250, the 180d prioritizes fuel economy over outright speed. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, resulting in a more relaxed driving experience at cruising speeds. The automatic transmission eliminates the need for manual gear changes, making it a convenient option for urban driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 180d typically comes standard with features such as automatic climate control, a 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 is generally Artico leatherette (synthetic leather), with options for genuine leather upgrades. Standard dashboard configuration includes a digital instrument cluster and a central display screen. Optional extras available for the CLA 180d include a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and advanced driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 180d utilizes an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The car is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Brake Assist. The steering system is an electric power steering system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 180d was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient entry-level option in the CLA range. Its fuel economy of 5.1-5.5 l/100 km (46.1-42.8 US mpg) was a significant selling point. Compared to the CLA 200d (with a more powerful engine), the 180d offered a lower price point but with slightly reduced performance. The CLA 180d also competed with other premium compact coupes like the Audi A3 and BMW 2 Series Coupe, offering a compelling combination of style, comfort, and efficiency.
Legacy
The OM 654 engine family, including the 1.95-liter unit in the CLA 180d, has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While long-term reliability data is still accumulating for the C118 generation CLA, the engine’s robust design and advanced technology suggest it will offer years of dependable service. In the used car market, the CLA 180d represents a relatively affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand, appealing to buyers seeking a stylish and efficient coupe with a premium badge.
