The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC Sport, produced from March 2015 to April 2016, represents a compelling entry point into the premium compact executive car segment. Part of the X117 CLA Shooting Brake (estate) generation, this variant combined a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7G-DCT) and all-wheel drive. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the CLA lineup, it aimed to deliver a balance of performance, practicality, and luxury features, appealing to buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience than the base models while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance AMG variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117) |
| Type | CLA 250 (211 Hp) Sport 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 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 158 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, 134.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 223.6 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 | 1565 kg (3450.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2050 kg (4519.48 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 (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° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 250 Sport 4MATIC utilized the M270.920 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was a key component of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its compact dimensions and efficiency. It featured direct fuel injection, a single turbocharger with an intercooler, and variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust sides. The engine produced 211 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1200 and 4000 rpm. This broad torque curve, coupled with the 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission, provided responsive acceleration and smooth gear changes. The 7G-DCT transmission offered both automatic and manual shifting modes, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 250 4MATIC Sport offered a noticeably more engaging driving experience than the base CLA 200 models. The 211 hp engine and 7G-DCT transmission provided brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.5 seconds. While not as overtly sporty as the CLA 45 AMG, the 250 offered a good balance of performance and comfort. The 7G-DCT transmission’s quick shifts and the 4MATIC system’s surefootedness contributed to a confident and enjoyable driving experience. The gear ratios were tuned for a blend of acceleration and fuel efficiency, with taller gears for highway cruising. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other CLA models, the 7G-DCT provided smoother and more convenient operation, particularly in city traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “Sport” trim level of the CLA 250 4MATIC included a number of standard features designed to enhance both aesthetics and comfort. These typically included sport seats, a sport steering wheel, aluminum pedal pads, and unique exterior styling elements. Standard interior features included automatic climate control, a multimedia system with a central display screen, and Bluetooth connectivity. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio systems, navigation, and various driver assistance features such as blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist. Upholstery options typically included a combination of leatherette and fabric, with full leather available as an upgrade.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 250 4MATIC Sport featured a fully independent suspension system, with multi-link setups at both the front and rear. This provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and control, offering a more engaging driving experience than the more comfort-oriented suspension setups found on some other compact cars. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) were standard features, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 250 4MATIC Sport was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. The combination of the turbocharged engine, dual-clutch transmission, and all-wheel drive was seen as a significant advantage over competitors. Fuel economy was also considered to be competitive for its class. Compared to the CLA 200, the 250 offered a substantial performance upgrade. Compared to the CLA 45 AMG, it provided a more accessible price point and a more comfortable ride, albeit with less outright performance. Reliability reports generally indicated good overall reliability, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system.
Legacy
The CLA 250 4MATIC Sport 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), has generally proven to be durable when properly maintained. The 7G-DCT transmission is also considered to be a robust unit. Today, these vehicles represent a good value for buyers seeking a stylish and well-equipped compact executive car. Their combination of performance, practicality, and luxury features continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
