The Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 S Shooting Brake (X118), produced from 2019 to 2023, represents the pinnacle of performance within the CLA Shooting Brake range. Positioned as the high-performance variant, it combines the practicality of a wagon body style with the potent power of the M139 engine. This model is part of the X118 series, a refresh of the CLA Shooting Brake, offering a more aggressive aesthetic and enhanced technology compared to its predecessor. The “S” designation denotes the higher output version of the 45, distinguishing it from the standard CLA 45.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X118) |
| Type | AMG CLA 45 S (421 Hp) 4MATIC+ AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 8.7-9.1 l/100 km (27 – 25.8 US mpg, 32.5 – 31 UK mpg, 11.5 – 11 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 198-207 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 10.3-10.7 l/100 km (22.8 – 22 US mpg, 27.4 – 26.4 UK mpg, 9.7 – 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.9-7.2 l/100 km (34.1 – 32.7 US mpg, 40.9 – 39.2 UK mpg, 14.5 – 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 8.2-8.3 l/100 km (28.7 – 28.3 US mpg, 34.4 – 34 UK mpg, 12.2 – 12 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 188-192 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 270 km/h (167.77 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.9 kg/Hp, 258.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 306.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 421 Hp @ 6750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 211.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 5000-5250 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 5000-5250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 139.980 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CAMTRONIC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.6 l (12.26 US qt | 10.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1630-1640 kg (3593.53 – 3615.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2175-2205 kg (4795.05 – 4861.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545-565 kg (1201.52 – 1245.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1370 l (48.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4688 mm (184.57 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Height | 1442 mm (56.77 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2729 mm (107.44 in.) |
| Front overhang | 927 mm (36.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1032 mm (40.63 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear driven by clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 330×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 255/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 S Shooting Brake is a performance-oriented variant of the CLA-Class, a compact executive car. Introduced in 2019 as part of the X118 facelift, it builds upon the foundation of the W177 CLA, offering a more practical wagon body style without sacrificing the exhilarating performance associated with the AMG 45 series. It slots in as the top-tier performance model within the CLA range, above the CLA 35 and standard CLA variants. The Shooting Brake body style, popular in Europe, provides increased cargo capacity and versatility compared to the CLA coupe.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLA 45 S lies the M139 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, a marvel of engineering. This engine is notable for its cylinder head and crankshaft rotated 180 degrees, allowing for a flatter, more efficient layout for the turbocharger and exhaust manifold. The M139 utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger, maximizing exhaust gas energy for quicker spool-up and reduced turbo lag. Direct injection, combined with multi-port fuel injection, optimizes combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 421 horsepower at 6750 rpm and 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque between 5000 and 5250 rpm.
Power is transmitted to all four wheels via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G, an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. This transmission offers incredibly fast and precise gear changes, contributing to the car’s impressive acceleration. The 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system is fully variable, intelligently distributing torque between the front and rear axles for optimal traction and handling. The system can even operate in a “drift mode” for controlled oversteer.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 45 S Shooting Brake delivers a thrilling driving experience. The combination of the potent engine, quick-shifting transmission, and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system results in a 0-60 mph time of just 3.8 seconds and a limited top speed of 167.77 mph. The dual-clutch transmission provides seamless gear changes, whether during spirited driving or everyday commuting. The suspension is tuned for performance, offering a firm but controlled ride. While not as comfortable as the standard CLA models, the CLA 45 S provides a rewarding connection to the road. The steering is precise and responsive, enhancing driver confidence. Compared to the standard CLA 45, the “S” model offers even more aggressive throttle response and a slightly higher redline.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 45 S Shooting Brake comes generously equipped as standard. Key features include AMG-specific styling elements, such as a more aggressive front fascia, rear diffuser, and quad exhaust outlets. The interior boasts sport seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Dinamica microfiber, along with AMG-branded steering wheel and pedals. Standard technology includes the MBUX infotainment system with a touchscreen display, digital instrument cluster, and a suite of driver-assistance features. Optional extras include a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance packages.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 45 S features a sophisticated chassis designed to handle the car’s substantial power. The front suspension utilizes McPherson struts with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, with larger rotors and upgraded calipers compared to the standard CLA models. The braking system is augmented by ABS, electronic brake-force distribution, and brake assist.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 45 S Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its exhilarating performance, refined interior, and practical wagon body style. Compared to the standard CLA 45, the “S” model offered a noticeable increase in power and performance, justifying its higher price tag. Fuel economy, while not a priority for this type of vehicle, was respectable for its class, averaging around 27-25.8 US mpg. Reliability reports have been mixed, with some owners reporting issues with the engine and transmission, while others have experienced no problems.
Legacy
The CLA 45 S Shooting Brake represents a significant achievement in compact performance car engineering. Its potent engine, advanced transmission, and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system set a high benchmark for its competitors. On the used car market, the CLA 45 S holds its value relatively well, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a thrilling and practical performance wagon. The M139 engine, in particular, has proven to be a robust and capable powerplant, though potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of maintenance costs associated with a high-performance vehicle.
