The Mercedes-Benz CLA 220 CDI 4MATIC Shooting Brake (X117) was a diesel-powered variant of the CLA-Class, produced between March 2015 and April 2016. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the CLA Shooting Brake lineup, it combined a 2.1-liter turbocharged diesel engine with a 7G-DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. This model aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, performance, and practicality for European buyers seeking a compact premium wagon.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117) |
| Type | CLA 220 CDI (177 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 | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 3600-3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1400-3400 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3400 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 | 1615 kg (3560.47 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 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 Mercedes-Benz X117 CLA Shooting Brake, launched in 2015, expanded the CLA range with a more practical wagon body style. The CLA 220 CDI 4MATIC, introduced alongside other variants, offered a compelling package for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and all-weather capability. Built on the MFA (Modular Front-wheel drive Architecture) platform – also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform – shared with the A-Class and GLA, the Shooting Brake aimed to attract customers who found the standard CLA coupe too compromised in terms of rear passenger space and cargo capacity. The 220 CDI trim represented a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a significant step up in performance from the base 200 CDI while remaining more affordable than the higher-performance 250 variants.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLA 220 CDI 4MATIC is the OM651.930 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, a mainstay in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, is known for its robust construction and fuel efficiency. It features a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger with intercooling further enhances performance and reduces turbo lag. The engine produces 177 horsepower at 3600-3800 rpm and a substantial 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1400 and 3400 rpm. This broad torque curve provides strong acceleration in everyday driving situations.
The engine is paired with a 7G-DCT (7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission). This transmission offers quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system utilizes a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction in adverse conditions. The system is fully automatic, seamlessly adjusting torque distribution based on driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 220 CDI 4MATIC delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine’s ample torque provides brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.9 seconds. The 7G-DCT transmission shifts quickly and smoothly, and the 4MATIC system inspires confidence in slippery conditions. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the CLA 220 CDI, the 7G-DCT offers greater convenience and ease of use, particularly in urban traffic. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, but also provide sufficient power for overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful CLA 250 models, the 220 CDI prioritizes fuel economy and torque over outright horsepower, making it a more sensible choice for long-distance driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 220 CDI 4MATIC Shooting Brake came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Typical features included automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, a 5.8-inch infotainment display with Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features including ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically Artico leatherette, with options for genuine leather upgrades. Popular optional extras included a larger infotainment screen, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and advanced driver assistance systems 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 220 CDI 4MATIC utilizes an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles. This suspension setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front suspension features coil springs and stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension also incorporates coil springs and a stabilizer bar. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) work in conjunction to enhance safety and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 220 CDI 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical wagon body style. However, some reviewers noted that the interior could feel somewhat cramped for taller passengers. Compared to other diesel-powered wagons in its class, such as the Audi A4 Avant TDI and the BMW 3 Series Touring, the CLA 220 CDI offered a more affordable entry point into the premium wagon segment. Its fuel economy was competitive, and its 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided a distinct advantage in inclement weather.
Legacy
The OM651 engine family, including the version used in the CLA 220 CDI, has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. While diesel engines generally require more diligent maintenance than gasoline engines, the OM651 is known for its longevity. On the used car market, the CLA 220 CDI 4MATIC Shooting Brake represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical premium wagon. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues, particularly if the vehicle has been primarily used for short trips. Regular servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are essential for maintaining the long-term reliability of this powertrain.
