The Mercedes-Benz CLA 180d Shooting Brake, produced from April 2016 to May 2018, represents an entry-level diesel variant within the X117 facelift generation of the CLA Shooting Brake. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, it catered to European markets prioritizing economy and lower running costs. This model combined a 1.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), offering a balance between usability and Mercedes-Benz’s premium image. The “d” designation signifies a diesel engine, and the 180 indicates its relative position within the model range – typically the base trim level.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 180d (109 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | April, 2016 |
| End of production | May, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9-4.7 l/100 km (48 – 50 US mpg, 57.6 – 60.1 UK mpg, 20.4 – 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.0-3.8 l/100 km (58.8 – 61.9 US mpg, 70.6 – 74.3 UK mpg, 25 – 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3-4.1 l/100 km (54.7 – 57.4 US mpg, 65.7 – 68.9 UK mpg, 23.3 – 24.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114-107 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp, 76.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 183.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 607.951 |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1990 kg (4387.2 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 745 kg (1642.44 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) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.00 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 180d Shooting Brake utilizes the OM607.951 engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, designed for efficiency and reduced emissions. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output and improve combustion. The fuel injection system is a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for optimized fuel atomization and efficient burning. The engine produces 109 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This torque band provides good low-end responsiveness, suitable for everyday driving. The engine is paired with a 7G-DCT (7-speed dual-clutch transmission), known for its quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission contributes to both fuel efficiency and a more engaging driving experience compared to a traditional automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The 109 hp output and the 7-speed DCT provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 11.3 seconds, and the top speed is 124.27 mph. The DCT transmission is a key factor in the driving experience, offering rapid shifts and contributing to a relatively smooth ride. However, compared to higher-powered CLA variants like the CLA 250, the 180d feels noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy, meaning the engine can feel slightly strained at higher speeds. The focus is on providing a comfortable and efficient driving experience rather than sporty performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but lacks the all-wheel-drive stability of some other CLA models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 180d Shooting Brake typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included features like air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, a basic infotainment system with a central display screen, and cloth upholstery. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were standard. Optional extras included upgrades to the infotainment system (such as navigation and smartphone integration), leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and various driver assistance systems like lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 180d utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The braking system is assisted by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) to enhance safety and control. The suspension is tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over aggressive handling. Stabilizer bars are present at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 180d Shooting Brake was generally well-received as a practical and economical option within the CLA range. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its relatively modest performance. Compared to the CLA 200d (with a more powerful engine), the 180d offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. Against competitors like the Audi A3 Sportback and BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer, the CLA 180d offered a stylish alternative with a focus on fuel economy and a premium interior. Its fuel economy figures of 4.3-4.1 l/100 km (54.7 – 57.4 US mpg) were competitive within its class.
Legacy
The OM607.951 engine, while not known for being exceptionally robust, has proven to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly with frequent short journeys, and potential problems with the turbocharger. The 7G-DCT transmission is generally reliable, but requires regular servicing to ensure smooth operation. In the used car market, the CLA 180d Shooting Brake represents an affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand. Its fuel efficiency and practicality make it a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and economical estate car. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the diesel particulate filter and turbocharger.
