The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC Shooting Brake, produced from March 2015 to April 2016, represents a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality within the X117 CLA generation. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the CLA lineup, it catered to buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience than the base CLA 200, while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance CLA 45 AMG. This variant combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7G-DCT) and Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, creating a versatile vehicle suited for both daily commuting and spirited driving. The Shooting Brake body style, essentially a wagon, offered increased cargo capacity compared to the CLA coupe, broadening its appeal to families and those with active lifestyles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117) |
| Type | CLA 250 (211 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) | 8.7-8.6 l/100 km (27 – 27.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7-5.4 l/100 km (41.3 – 43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8-6.6 l/100 km (34.6 – 35.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 156-152 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 211 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1200-4000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1200-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 270.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1555 kg (3428.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2050 kg (4519.48 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 | 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 | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLA 250 4MATIC is the M270.920 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a key member of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its compact design and efficiency. It features direct fuel injection, a single turbocharger with an intercooler, and variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust sides. The direct injection system delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber, improving combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. The turbocharger provides a significant boost in power, allowing the engine to produce 211 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1200 and 4000 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to strong acceleration and responsive performance. The engine is paired with a 7G-DCT (7-speed dual-clutch transmission). This transmission offers quick and smooth gear changes, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 250 4MATIC Shooting Brake delivers a refined and engaging driving experience. The 7G-DCT transmission provides rapid shifts, and the 4MATIC system inspires confidence in various driving conditions. While not as overtly sporty as the CLA 45 AMG, the CLA 250 offers ample power for everyday driving and confident highway passing. The 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 6.5 seconds is respectable for a vehicle in this class. Compared to the base CLA 200, the 250 offers a noticeable improvement in performance, thanks to the larger engine and increased torque. The gear ratios in the 7G-DCT are well-tuned for both acceleration and fuel efficiency, providing a balance between performance and economy. The steering is precise and well-weighted, contributing to a connected feel behind the wheel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 250 4MATIC Shooting Brake typically came well-equipped as standard. 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 a combination of fabric and synthetic leather, with options for full leather available. Common optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio system, navigation system, and various driver assistance features like 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 250 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 to balance comfort and control, offering a compliant ride over most road surfaces. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) work together to enhance safety and stability during braking and cornering. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 250 4MATIC Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. The combination of performance, fuel economy, and practicality made it a compelling alternative to traditional compact sedans and hatchbacks. Compared to the CLA 200, the 250 offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying the higher price tag for many buyers. Fuel economy was competitive for its class, with combined figures ranging from 34.6 to 35.6 US mpg. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The CLA 250 4MATIC Shooting Brake has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The M270 engine, while not without its potential issues (such as occasional oil consumption), is generally considered durable when properly maintained. The 7G-DCT transmission has also proven to be reliable, provided that it receives regular fluid changes. Today, these vehicles represent a good value for buyers seeking a stylish, practical, and well-equipped compact wagon. Their continued presence on the used car market is a testament to their overall quality and appeal.
