Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 180 (122 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 2015 |
| End of production | April, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.9-7.4 l/100 km (29.8 – 31.8 US mpg, 35.8 – 38.2 UK mpg, 12.7 – 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9-4.4 l/100 km (48 – 53.5 US mpg, 57.6 – 64.2 UK mpg, 20.4 – 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.0-5.5 l/100 km (39.2 – 42.8 US mpg, 47.1 – 51.4 UK mpg, 16.7 – 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 140-128 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 | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp, 85.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 139.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1250-4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1250-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 270.910 |
| Engine displacement | 1595 cm3 (97.33 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1955 kg (4310.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1354 l (47.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4630 mm (182.28 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2699 mm (106.26 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 13.7° |
| Departure angle | 14.4° |
| 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 |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 Shooting Brake (X117), produced from March 2015 to April 2016, served as the entry point into the CLA Shooting Brake range. Positioned as a stylish and practical compact estate, it aimed to broaden the appeal of the CLA platform by offering a more affordable and fuel-efficient option compared to its higher-powered siblings. This variant was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where compact estates are popular, blending Mercedes-Benz luxury and practicality in a smaller package. It falls within the X117 generation, sharing its platform with the A-Class and GLA.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake utilizes the M 270.910 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its compact design and efficiency. It features direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler, allowing for a reasonable balance of power and fuel economy. The engine produces 122 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque between 1250 and 4000 rpm. The engine’s compression ratio is 10.3:1. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The standard transmission for this variant was a 6-speed manual gearbox, although a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (7G-DCT) was available as an option.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake, with its 122 hp and front-wheel drive configuration, offered a comfortable and economical driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 9.4 seconds. While not particularly sporty, the engine provided adequate power for everyday driving situations. The turbocharger helped to deliver a usable amount of torque at lower engine speeds, making it relatively easy to navigate city traffic. Compared to the more powerful CLA 250 models, the 180 felt noticeably slower, especially during overtaking maneuvers. The manual transmission offered a more engaging driving experience, while the optional automatic provided smoother gear changes but at the expense of some driver involvement. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake typically came equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, a basic audio system, and electric windows. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Common optional extras included a larger infotainment screen, navigation system, parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. Trim levels were relatively simple, with the CLA 180 serving as the base model. Packages like the ‘Style’ and ‘Sport’ packages were available, adding cosmetic enhancements and additional features.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake utilized an independent multi-link suspension on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride quality. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing ride smoothness over sharp cornering. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering reasonable precision. The vehicle’s weight of approximately 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs) contributed to its relatively modest performance. Standard tire size was 205/55 R16.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake was generally well-received as an affordable and stylish entry point into the Mercedes-Benz estate range. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its relatively modest performance. Compared to the CLA 200 or CLA 250 models, the 180 offered a lower price point but sacrificed some power and refinement. The 1.6L engine was considered reliable, but regular maintenance was essential to ensure longevity. Fuel economy figures of around 6.0-5.5 l/100 km (39.2 – 42.8 US mpg) were competitive within its class.
Legacy
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake, while not the most powerful or dynamic variant in the CLA lineup, proved to be a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical and affordable premium estate. The M 270 engine, when properly maintained, has demonstrated reasonable long-term reliability. In the used car market, these models represent a relatively affordable way to experience Mercedes-Benz ownership. Common issues reported include occasional turbocharger problems and oil leaks, but these are generally not widespread. The CLA 180 Shooting Brake remains a stylish and practical option for those seeking a compact estate with a premium badge.
