The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 Shooting Brake (X117), produced from March 2015 to April 2016, represents a compelling entry point into the premium compact estate market. Positioned as the base model within the CLA Shooting Brake range, it offered a blend of style, practicality, and efficiency. This variant aimed to attract buyers seeking the sleek aesthetics of the CLA but with a more accessible price point than the higher-performance or more lavishly equipped models. It falls within the W117 series, sharing its underpinnings with other compact Mercedes-Benz models of the era, notably the A-Class and GLA.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 200 (156 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) | 7.9-7.5 l/100 km (29.8 – 31.4 US mpg, 35.8 – 37.7 UK mpg, 12.7 – 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9-4.5 l/100 km (48 – 52.3 US mpg, 57.6 – 62.8 UK mpg, 20.4 – 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.0-5.6 l/100 km (39.2 – 42 US mpg, 47.1 – 50.4 UK mpg, 16.7 – 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 140-130 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 109.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 174.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1250-4000 rpm (184.39 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 200 Shooting Brake utilized the M 270.910 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a key component of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its compact dimensions and efficiency. It features direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler, allowing for a good balance of power and fuel economy. The engine produces 156 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1250 and 4000 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes low-end torque delivery, making it suitable for everyday driving. The standard transmission for this variant was a 6-speed manual, although a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (7G-DCT) was available as an option. The 7G-DCT offered quicker shifts and improved fuel efficiency, but came at an additional cost.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 200 with the manual transmission offered a reasonably engaging driving experience, though it wasn’t designed for outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 8.4 seconds, and top speed was limited to 139.81 mph. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power, but the engine could feel somewhat strained at higher speeds or when carrying a full load. The 6-speed manual gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering precise shifts and a decent spread of ratios. Compared to the more powerful CLA 250, the 200 felt less responsive, but it provided a more economical and relaxed driving experience. The automatic transmission, while smoother, could sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 200 Shooting Brake came standard with features such as air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, a basic audio system, and a suite of safety features including ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Upholstery was typically cloth, though leatherette or full leather options were available. Common optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, navigation, parking sensors, and various driver assistance systems like lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Trim levels were relatively simple, with options primarily focused on adding comfort and convenience features rather than significant performance upgrades.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 200 Shooting Brake utilized an independent multi-link suspension on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness, but it still offered a reasonable level of control and stability. The steering was precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver. The car’s relatively low weight (1430 kg / 3152.61 lbs) helped to contribute to its agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 200 Shooting Brake was generally well-received by critics as an attractive and practical entry-level premium estate. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and good fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, particularly when fully loaded or on steep inclines. Compared to other compact estates in its class, such as the Audi A3 Sportback and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, the CLA 200 offered a more distinctive design and a slightly more affordable price point. Fuel economy figures were competitive, averaging around 39.2 – 42 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The M 270 engine family, including the 1.6-liter unit found in the CLA 200, has proven to be relatively reliable, although some owners have reported issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timely replacement of wear items, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. On the used car market, the CLA 200 Shooting Brake remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish and practical premium estate at an affordable price. Its combination of good looks, reasonable running costs, and comfortable ride continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers.
