The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200d 4MATIC DCT, part of the X117 Shooting Brake (estate) facelift introduced in April 2016 and continuing through May 2018, represented a compelling entry point into the premium compact market. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical alternative to its more performance-oriented siblings, the 200d combined a diesel engine with all-wheel drive and a dual-clutch transmission. This variant aimed to appeal to buyers prioritizing economy and usability without sacrificing the brand’s luxury image. It sat below the CLA 250 and AMG CLA 45 models in the lineup, offering a more accessible price point.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 200d (136 Hp) 4MATIC 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) | 6.1-5.7 l/100 km (38.6 – 41.3 US mpg, 46.3 – 49.6 UK mpg, 16.4 – 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4-4.0 l/100 km (53.5 – 58.8 US mpg, 64.2 – 70.6 UK mpg, 22.7 – 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.0-4.6 l/100 km (47 – 51.1 US mpg, 56.5 – 61.4 UK mpg, 20 – 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 131-121 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp, 88.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 194.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 3400-4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1400-3000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651 DE 18 LA |
| Engine displacement | 2143 cm3 (130.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 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.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 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) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.00 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The X117 generation Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake, launched in 2015, expanded the CLA lineup by adding a practical wagon body style. The 2016 facelift brought styling updates and revised engine options, including the CLA 200d 4MATIC DCT. This model combined a 2.1-liter turbocharged diesel engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. It was designed to offer a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and all-weather capability, appealing to a broad range of buyers in the European market where compact estates are highly popular. In the US market, the CLA Shooting Brake was not officially offered, making this variant primarily a European offering.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLA 200d 4MATIC DCT is the OM651 DE 18 LA engine, a 2.143-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance and efficiency. The engine produces 136 horsepower at 3400-4400 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 1400-3000 rpm. The 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission provides quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. This transmission features seven forward gears and allows for both automatic and manual shifting via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The engine’s architecture is robust and designed for longevity, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz diesel engines.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 200d 4MATIC DCT offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-focused model, the 300 Nm of torque provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations. The 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint takes approximately 9.2 seconds. The DCT transmission contributes to responsive acceleration, and the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction, particularly in inclement weather. Compared to the more powerful CLA 250, the 200d feels less urgent in its acceleration, but it offers significantly better fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over outright performance. The steering is precise, and the suspension provides a good balance between comfort and handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 200d 4MATIC DCT typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These 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 generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, navigation, and various driver assistance systems like lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 200d 4MATIC DCT utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distributes torque between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction and stability. The weight distribution is well-balanced, contributing to the car’s predictable handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 200d 4MATIC DCT was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and efficient option within the CLA range. It was praised for its fuel economy, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel strained when pushed hard, and the interior, while well-built, lacked the outright luxury of some competitors. Compared to the CLA 250, the 200d offered significantly better fuel economy (around 5.0-4.6 l/100 km vs. 6.2-5.8 l/100 km for the 250) but less performance. Against rivals like the Audi A3 Sportback and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, the CLA 200d offered a compelling combination of style, practicality, and value.
Legacy
The OM651 engine family, used in the CLA 200d, is known for its durability and reliability. With proper maintenance, these engines can accumulate high mileage without major issues. The 7G-DCT transmission is also generally reliable, although regular servicing is essential. In the used car market, the CLA 200d 4MATIC DCT represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical compact estate. Its all-wheel-drive system and robust diesel engine make it a suitable choice for those living in regions with challenging weather conditions. While not a sports car, it offers a comfortable and refined driving experience, making it a popular choice for everyday commuting and long-distance travel.
