The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 CDI 4MATIC Shooting Brake, produced from March 2015 to April 2016, represents a compelling entry point into the premium compact estate market. Part of the X117 series, this variant combined a diesel engine with all-wheel drive and a dual-clutch transmission, offering a blend of efficiency, practicality, and all-weather capability. It occupied a mid-range position within the CLA Shooting Brake lineup, positioned below the more powerful petrol variants like the CLA 250 and above the base CLA 180 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117) |
| Type | CLA 200 CDI (136 Hp) 4MATIC 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) | 6.1-5.7 l/100 km (38.6 – 41.3 US mpg, 46.3 – 49.6 UK mpg, 16.4 – 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4-4.0 l/100 km (53.5 – 58.8 US mpg, 64.2 – 70.6 UK mpg, 22.7 – 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.0-4.6 l/100 km (47 – 51.1 US mpg, 56.5 – 61.4 UK mpg, 20 – 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 131-121 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp, 88.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 196.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 3400-4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1400-3000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651.930 |
| Engine displacement | 2143 cm3 (130.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1530 kg (3373.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 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) |
| 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 track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission G-DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The CLA 200 CDI 4MATIC Shooting Brake arrived as part of the X117 series’ mid-cycle refresh in 2015. Building upon the success of the original CLA, the Shooting Brake variant offered increased practicality with its estate body style. The 200 CDI designation signified the use of a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, paired with a 7G-DCT (7-speed dual-clutch transmission) and Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. This combination aimed to deliver a balance of fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and enhanced grip in various driving conditions. The X117 platform, shared with the A-Class and GLA, provided a relatively compact footprint while maximizing interior space.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLA 200 CDI 4MATIC lies the OM651.930 engine, a 2.143-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a mainstay in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, known for its durability and efficiency. It features a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances power output and torque. The engine produces 136 horsepower at 3400-4400 rpm and a substantial 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 1400-3000 rpm. The 7G-DCT transmission is a seven-speed dual-clutch unit, offering quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission contributes to both fuel economy and responsive acceleration. The 4MATIC system is a full-time all-wheel-drive system, distributing power between the front and rear axles as needed to maximize traction.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 200 CDI 4MATIC Shooting Brake delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The 9.8-second 0-62 mph acceleration time is respectable, and the readily available torque makes overtaking maneuvers relatively effortless. The 7G-DCT transmission shifts quickly and smoothly, contributing to a seamless driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced grip, particularly in wet or slippery conditions. Compared to the more powerful CLA 250, the 200 CDI offers less outright performance, but it compensates with significantly better fuel economy. Manual transmission versions, while available in other CLA trims, were not offered with the 200 CDI engine in the Shooting Brake configuration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 200 CDI 4MATIC Shooting Brake typically came equipped with a generous array of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, a color infotainment display, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically Artico leatherette, with options for genuine leather upgrades. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, navigation, and various driver assistance systems like lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 200 CDI 4MATIC utilizes an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned for a balance between comfort and control, rather than outright sportiness. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS system prevents wheel lockup during hard braking, enhancing safety. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 200 CDI 4MATIC Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical estate body style. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel slightly underpowered, particularly when fully loaded. Compared to other trims in the CLA lineup, the 200 CDI offered the best fuel economy, making it an attractive option for drivers who prioritize efficiency. Its main competitors included other premium compact estates, such as the Audi A4 Avant and the BMW 3 Series Touring, both of which typically offered a wider range of engine options.
Legacy
The OM651 engine family, used in the CLA 200 CDI, has a reputation for being robust and reliable. With proper maintenance, these engines can accumulate high mileage without major issues. The 7G-DCT transmission is also generally considered reliable, although regular fluid changes are essential. In the used car market, the CLA 200 CDI 4MATIC Shooting Brake represents a good value proposition, offering a blend of practicality, efficiency, and premium features at a relatively affordable price point. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues, particularly if the vehicle has primarily been used for short journeys.
