The Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake (X117, facelift 2016) represents the high-performance variant of the CLA Shooting Brake, a five-door, compact estate car. Introduced in April 2016 and continuing through December 2018, this model combined the practicality of a wagon with the potent performance of the AMG division. It occupied the top tier of the CLA Shooting Brake lineup, offering a significant step up in power and handling compared to the standard CLA models. The facelift brought styling updates and minor mechanical revisions to the X117 platform, which was based on the Mercedes-Benz MFA (Modular Front-wheel drive Architecture) shared with the A-Class and GLA.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | AMG CLA 45 (381 Hp) 4MATIC DCT |
| Start of production | April, 2016 |
| End of production | December, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.6-9.2 l/100 km (24.5 – 25.6 US mpg, 29.4 – 30.7 UK mpg, 10.4 – 10.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.0-5.6 l/100 km (39.2 – 42 US mpg, 47.1 – 50.4 UK mpg, 16.7 – 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3-6.9 l/100 km (32.2 – 34.1 US mpg, 38.7 – 40.9 UK mpg, 13.7 – 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 171-162 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4 kg/Hp, 247.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 308.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 381 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 191.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 475 Nm @ 2250-5000 rpm (350.34 lb.-ft. @ 2250-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 133.980 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 8.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4640 mm (182.68 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 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.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.04 m (36.22 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/40 ZR 18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake, produced from 2016 to 2018, was a performance-oriented variant of the CLA Shooting Brake. It aimed to deliver exhilarating driving dynamics within a practical, five-door body style. The “facelift” designation refers to mid-cycle updates that included revised front and rear styling, updated interior trim, and minor adjustments to the engine and transmission. Positioned as the flagship of the CLA range, it competed with other high-performance compact estates like the Audi S4 Avant and BMW 3 Series Touring (in markets where those models were available).
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake lies the M133.980 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is notable for its exceptionally high specific output – 191.4 horsepower per liter – achieved through a combination of direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and sophisticated engine management. The M133 engine family is known for its robust construction, featuring a reinforced crankshaft and pistons to handle the increased stresses of high performance. The engine utilizes a spray guided direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for optimal combustion efficiency. The turbocharger is a key component, providing significant boost across a wide RPM range. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which provides rapid and precise gear changes. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system is rear-biased, sending more torque to the rear wheels for enhanced agility and driving enjoyment.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake delivers a distinctly sporty driving experience. The 381 horsepower and 475 Nm (350 lb-ft) of torque provide brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.1 seconds. The DCT transmission contributes to this performance with its quick shifts and responsive behavior. While the engine is highly capable, the relatively small displacement means that peak torque is available over a relatively narrow band, requiring drivers to keep the engine within its optimal range for maximum performance. The 4MATIC system provides excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions, and the rear-biased torque distribution enhances cornering agility. Compared to the standard CLA models, the AMG variant features a significantly stiffer suspension, providing improved body control and reduced roll. However, this comes at the expense of some ride comfort.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake came generously equipped as standard. Key features included AMG-specific body styling (including a front splitter, side skirts, and rear diffuser), 18-inch alloy wheels, a sports exhaust system, and a performance-oriented interior with sport seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Dinamica microfiber. The interior also featured AMG gauges, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and aluminum pedal caps. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, advanced driver assistance systems (such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring), and various interior trim options. The interior dashboard configuration was typical of Mercedes-Benz, with a central infotainment screen and a high-quality fit and finish.
Chassis & Braking
The chassis of the CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake was specifically tuned to handle the increased power and performance. The suspension featured stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard CLA models, along with a larger stabilizer bar. The braking system was upgraded with larger, ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The AMG variant also featured a more direct steering ratio, enhancing responsiveness and feel. The rear suspension utilized a multi-link design, contributing to improved handling and ride quality. The vehicle’s weight distribution was carefully optimized to enhance balance and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, handling, and practicality. However, some reviewers noted that the ride quality could be firm, and the engine, while powerful, lacked the character of larger displacement engines. Compared to other CLA variants, the 45 AMG offered a significant performance advantage but came at a higher price point. Fuel economy, while respectable for a high-performance vehicle, was lower than that of the standard CLA models. The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake offered a compelling alternative to traditional performance estates, appealing to buyers who wanted a blend of practicality and excitement.
Legacy
The M133 engine, while known for its power, has demonstrated reasonable long-term reliability, although preventative maintenance, particularly regarding oil changes, is crucial. The DCT transmission has also proven to be generally reliable, but some owners have reported issues with the mechatronic unit. In the used car market, the CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake remains a desirable option for enthusiasts seeking a high-performance compact estate. Its combination of power, practicality, and relatively affordable price point continues to attract buyers. The vehicle represents a significant achievement in engine technology, demonstrating that a small-displacement engine can deliver performance comparable to larger, more traditional engines.
