The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 Shooting Brake (X117), produced from March 2015 to April 2016, represents a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality within the compact executive car segment. As a variant of the X117 CLA Shooting Brake, it offered a more versatile body style – a five-door wagon (estate) – compared to the standard CLA coupe. This model occupied a mid-range position in the CLA lineup, positioned above the CLA 200 and below the more performance-oriented CLA 45 AMG. It aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a premium, sporty vehicle with increased cargo capacity and a comfortable driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 250 (211 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 (economy) – urban | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.7-4.5 l/100 km (50 – 52.3 US mpg, 60.1 – 62.8 UK mpg, 21.3 – 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.7-5.5 l/100 km (41.3 – 42.8 US mpg, 49.6 – 51.4 UK mpg, 17.5 – 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 132-128 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 140.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 233.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 211 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 106 Hp/l |
| 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 | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1995 kg (4398.22 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 (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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-DCT |
| 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 | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The CLA 250 Shooting Brake, introduced in 2015, expanded the appeal of the CLA range by offering the sleek styling of the coupe with the added practicality of a wagon. Built on the MFA (Modular Front-wheel drive Architecture) platform – specifically the X117 designation – it shared its underpinnings with other compact Mercedes-Benz models like the A-Class and GLA. The Shooting Brake body style was particularly popular in Europe, where demand for practical yet stylish wagons remains strong. In the US market, it provided an alternative to traditional sedan offerings, appealing to buyers seeking a more unique and versatile vehicle.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLA 250 Shooting Brake lies the M270.920 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a key component of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and performance. It features direct fuel injection, a single turbocharger with an intercooler, and four valves per cylinder. The engine produces 211 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1200 and 4000 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to responsive 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, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. The 7G-DCT allows for both automatic and manual shifting via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 250 Shooting Brake with the 7G-DCT transmission delivers a comfortable and engaging driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the CLA 45 AMG, it provides ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. The 7G-DCT transmission contributes to brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.6 seconds. The gear ratios are tuned to prioritize fuel efficiency at cruising speeds, while still providing quick downshifts for overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the manual transmission option, the 7G-DCT offers smoother shifts and reduces driver fatigue, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, some enthusiasts may prefer the more direct engagement of a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 250 Shooting Brake came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Typical features included automatic climate control, a multimedia system with a 7-inch display screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features like Attention Assist and Collision Prevention Assist. Interior upholstery was typically MB-Tex artificial leather, with options for genuine leather upgrades. Common optional extras included a larger 8-inch display screen, navigation system, panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 250 Shooting Brake utilizes an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles. This suspension setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The front suspension features ventilated disc brakes, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, along with Electronic Stability Program (ESP). The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance. The car’s relatively low weight (around 3307 lbs) contributes to its agile handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 250 Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and efficient powertrain. However, some reviewers noted that the rear seat space was somewhat limited, and the ride could be firm on rough roads. Compared to other CLA variants, the 250 offered a good balance of performance and fuel economy. The CLA 200 was more affordable but lacked the 250’s power, while the CLA 45 AMG was significantly more expensive and focused on outright performance. Fuel economy figures were competitive for its class, averaging around 41-43 mpg on the combined cycle.
Legacy
The M270 engine and 7G-DCT transmission combination used in the CLA 250 Shooting Brake have proven to be relatively reliable. While some owners have reported minor issues with the fuel injection system or turbocharger, these are not widespread. The 7G-DCT transmission is generally considered durable, but regular maintenance – including fluid changes – is crucial for long-term reliability. On the used car market, the CLA 250 Shooting Brake remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish and practical compact wagon. Its combination of premium features, good performance, and reasonable running costs make it a compelling option in its price range.
