Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X118) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 180 (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | January, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 135-156 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.4-7.8 l/100 km (31.8 – 30.2 US mpg, 38.2 – 36.2 UK mpg, 13.5 – 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.4-4.6 l/100 km (53.5 – 51.1 US mpg, 64.2 – 61.4 UK mpg, 22.7 – 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.5-5.8 l/100 km (42.8 – 40.6 US mpg, 51.4 – 48.7 UK mpg, 18.2 – 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 125-132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP – EVAP – ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 100.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 148.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp |
| Power per litre | 102.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1460-4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1460-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 282 DE 14 AL |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1370 l (48.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 710 kg (1565.28 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 track | 1612 mm (63.46 in.) |
| Front overhang | 927 mm (36.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1032 mm (40.63 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 104 mm (4.09 in.) |
| Approach angle | 13.4° |
| Departure angle | 14.3° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 9.4° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 Shooting Brake (X118), produced from 2019 to January 2023, served as the entry point into the CLA Shooting Brake model range. Positioned as a stylish and practical compact estate, it aimed to attract buyers seeking a premium vehicle with reasonable running costs. This variant utilized a 1.3-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, offering a balance between efficiency and usability. It was part of the X118 series, which brought a more spacious and refined offering to the compact executive estate segment, building upon the success of the original CLA.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake utilized Mercedes-Benz’s M 282 DE 14 AL engine, a 1.332-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of a modular engine family developed in cooperation with Renault. It features direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler, producing 136 horsepower and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1460 and 4000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The engine’s relatively small displacement and turbocharging contribute to its fuel efficiency. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (7G-DCT), known for its quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission is a key component in optimizing both performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake, with its 136 hp and automatic transmission, offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 9.6 seconds, making it adequate for everyday driving but not particularly sporty. The 7G-DCT transmission provided smooth shifts, and the engine delivered sufficient torque for overtaking maneuvers. Compared to higher-output CLA variants like the CLA 250, the 180 felt less eager to accelerate, but it compensated with better fuel economy. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over outright performance. The steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake came standard with a respectable level of equipment, including automatic climate control, a multimedia system with a touchscreen display, and a suite of safety features like ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery typically consisted of fabric seats, although leather options were available as upgrades. Standard features also included power windows, power mirrors, and a multi-function steering wheel. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio system, navigation system, and various driver-assistance systems like lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Trim levels were often differentiated by cosmetic enhancements, such as different wheel designs and interior trim materials.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake featured a typical front-wheel-drive chassis configuration with independent suspension at the front and a multi-link rear suspension. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces. The steering system utilized an electric power steering system, offering light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The relatively lightweight construction of the CLA 180 contributed to its agile handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 180 Shooting Brake was generally well-received by critics as an attractive and practical entry-level premium estate. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and good fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.3-liter engine could feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to other trims in the CLA lineup, such as the CLA 200 or CLA 250, the 180 offered a more affordable price point but sacrificed some performance. In terms of reliability, the M 282 engine family has proven to be generally reliable, although some owners have reported minor issues with the turbocharger and fuel injection system.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 Shooting Brake (X118) remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a stylish and fuel-efficient premium estate. The 1.3-liter engine and 7G-DCT transmission have proven to be relatively durable, and maintenance costs are generally reasonable. While not the most powerful variant in the CLA lineup, the 180 offers a good balance of practicality, comfort, and affordability. Its continued presence in the used car market is a testament to its enduring appeal and overall quality.
