The Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake (X117), produced from July 2015 to April 2016, represents the high-performance variant of the CLA Shooting Brake model line. Positioned as the flagship trim, it combined the practicality of a wagon body style with the potent performance of Mercedes-AMG’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This model was primarily aimed at the European market, where compact, performance-oriented wagons are highly sought after, though limited examples were available in North America. It sat at the top of the CLA range, offering a significant performance upgrade over the standard CLA 250 models and the diesel-powered variants.
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117) |
| Type | AMG CLA 45 (381 Hp) 4MATIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT |
| Start of production | July, 2015 |
| End of production | April, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.2-9.6 l/100 km (25.6 – 24.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6-6 l/100 km (42 – 39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9-7.3 l/100 km (34.1 – 32.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 162-171 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 381 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 475 Nm @ 2250-5000 rpm (350.34 lb.-ft. @ 2250-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 133.980 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1354 l (47.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4691 mm (184.69 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2699 mm (106.26 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.04 m (36.22 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT 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 | Ventilated discs |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake is the M133 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. This engine, known for its high specific output, was hand-assembled by AMG technicians following the “one man, one engine” philosophy. The M133 featured direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and a sophisticated engine management system. The twin-scroll design minimized turbo lag, providing responsive acceleration. The engine produced 381 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 350 lb-ft of torque between 2250 and 5000 rpm. This power was delivered through a seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT dual-clutch transmission, which offered quick and precise gear changes. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake offered a distinctly sporty driving experience. The combination of the powerful engine, quick-shifting transmission, and all-wheel drive resulted in a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.1 seconds. While the automatic transmission provided convenience, it didn’t quite match the engagement of a manual gearbox. The gear ratios were tuned for acceleration, with shorter gearing in the lower gears. Compared to the standard CLA 250, the CLA 45 offered significantly more power and a more aggressive throttle response. The suspension was firmer, providing better handling but at the expense of some ride comfort. The exhaust note was also more pronounced, adding to the sporty character.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including AMG-specific styling elements, such as a more aggressive front fascia, side skirts, and a rear diffuser. The interior featured sport seats upholstered in leather and Dinamica microfiber, along with AMG-branded steering wheel and pedals. Standard equipment also included a rearview camera, automatic climate control, and a premium sound system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring), and upgraded interior trim options. The interior dashboard configuration was typical of the CLA, with a central infotainment screen and a relatively minimalist design.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake featured a sport-tuned suspension with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard CLA models. The front suspension utilized a McPherson strut design, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link setup. This configuration provided improved handling and reduced body roll. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The AMG braking system, available as an option, featured larger rotors and calipers for even greater performance. The steering was precise and responsive, thanks to the electric power steering system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its impressive performance, engaging driving dynamics, and stylish design. However, some critics noted that the ride quality was firm and that the interior, while well-appointed, lacked the luxurious feel of some of its competitors. Compared to other high-performance compact wagons, such as the Audi S4 Avant, the CLA 45 offered a more aggressive and youthful character. Fuel economy was respectable for a performance car, with combined fuel consumption figures ranging from 32.2 to 34.1 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system.
Legacy
The M133 engine, as used in the CLA 45 AMG, proved to be a robust and reliable powerplant when properly maintained. The engine’s high specific output and responsive performance have made it a popular choice among enthusiasts. In the used car market, the CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake holds its value relatively well, particularly well-maintained examples with low mileage. The model represents a unique offering in the compact performance segment, combining the practicality of a wagon with the excitement of an AMG-tuned engine. It remains a desirable option for those seeking a sporty and versatile vehicle.
