The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 Shooting Brake (X117), equipped with the 156 horsepower engine and 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission, was a key variant in the CLA lineup produced between March 2015 and April 2016. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability within the compact executive estate (wagon) segment. This model represented Mercedes-Benz’s attempt to attract a younger demographic to the brand with a stylish and technologically advanced vehicle. The X117 generation CLA, based on the MFA (Modular Front-wheel Drive Architecture) platform shared with the A-Class and GLA, brought a coupe-like silhouette to the practical estate body style.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 200 (156 Hp) 7G-DCT |
| 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) | 7.3-6.9 l/100 km (32.2 – 34.1 US mpg, 38.7 – 40.9 UK mpg, 13.7 – 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7-4.4 l/100 km (50 – 53.5 US mpg, 60.1 – 64.2 UK mpg, 21.3 – 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6-5.3 l/100 km (42 – 44.4 US mpg, 50.4 – 53.3 UK mpg, 17.9 – 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 132-124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.2 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 | 1460 kg (3218.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1955 kg (4310.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495 kg (1091.29 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 | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-DCT |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 200 Shooting Brake utilized the M 270.910 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, part of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, featured direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler. The direct injection system allowed for precise fuel delivery, enhancing both power and efficiency. The turbocharger boosted output, providing 156 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1250 rpm, sustaining through 4000 rpm. This broad torque curve was a key characteristic of the engine, contributing to its usability in everyday driving. The engine was paired with the 7G-DCT (7-speed dual-clutch transmission). This transmission offered quick and smooth gear changes, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. The 7G-DCT allowed for both automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 200 Automatic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the combination of the turbocharged engine and the 7G-DCT provided adequate performance for most driving situations. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 8.3 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 139.81 mph. The 7G-DCT transmission contributed to a smooth and seamless power delivery, minimizing any noticeable turbo lag. Compared to the more powerful CLA 250 or AMG variants, the 200 felt less urgent in its acceleration. However, it offered significantly better fuel economy. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over outright performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided good traction in most conditions, although it lacked the all-wheel-drive stability of some other CLA models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 200 Shooting Brake came standard with a respectable level of equipment. Typical features included automatic climate control, a multimedia system with a central display screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically Artico leatherette (synthetic leather), with options for genuine leather upgrades. Common optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, navigation, and various driver assistance packages (such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring). Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled together popular options.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 200 Shooting Brake featured an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles. This suspension setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front suspension utilized coil springs and dampers, while the rear suspension incorporated a compact design to maximize cargo space. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, ensuring safe and controlled braking in emergency situations. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 200 Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.6-liter engine could feel underpowered, particularly when the car was fully loaded or traveling uphill. Compared to the CLA 250, which featured a more powerful 2.0-liter engine, the 200 offered a more affordable entry point into the CLA range. The 1.8L diesel variants (like the CLA 200 d) offered comparable fuel economy but with a different driving character. The CLA 200’s fuel economy figures of around 42-44 mpg combined were competitive within its segment.
Legacy
The M 270 engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit some issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves over time, particularly in vehicles that primarily undertake short journeys. Regular servicing and the use of quality fuel can help mitigate this risk. The 7G-DCT transmission has also proven to be a robust unit, but requires regular fluid changes to ensure optimal performance. Today, the CLA 200 Shooting Brake represents a relatively affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand on the used car market. Its combination of style, practicality, and fuel efficiency continues to appeal to buyers looking for a compact executive estate.
