The Mercedes-Benz CLA 180d Shooting Brake (X118), produced from 2019 to January 2023, represents the entry-level diesel variant of the second-generation CLA Shooting Brake. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option within the CLA range, it aimed to attract buyers seeking the stylish design of the CLA in a more economical package. This model occupied the lower end of the performance spectrum, prioritizing fuel economy and affordability over outright speed. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where diesel engines remained popular due to favorable taxation and fuel costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X118) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 180d (116 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) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 118-139 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 4.7-4.9 l/100 km (50 – 48 US mpg, 60.1 – 57.6 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 3.6-3.9 l/100 km (65.3 – 60.3 US mpg, 78.5 – 72.4 UK mpg, 27.8 – 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 4.0-4.3 l/100 km (58.8 – 54.7 US mpg, 70.6 – 65.7 UK mpg, 25 – 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 106-114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 203 km/h (126.14 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP – EVAP – ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp, 81.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 182.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 79.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 608 DE 15 SCR |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.1 l (12.79 US qt | 10.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1425 kg (3141.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2055 kg (4530.5 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1360 l (48.03 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 | 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 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 | 6 gears, manual 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 180d Shooting Brake utilizes the OM 608 DE 15 SCR 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 engine employs a diesel commonrail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the cylinders at high pressure for optimized fuel atomization and combustion. The engine also incorporates a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, complying with stringent Euro 6d emission standards. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a balance between fuel efficiency and driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 116 horsepower and 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the CLA 180d resulted in a 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 10.6 seconds and a top speed of 126.14 mph. While not a performance-oriented variant, the engine provided adequate power for everyday driving situations. The manual transmission allowed for a degree of driver engagement, but the relatively long gear ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel economy rather than spirited acceleration. Compared to higher-output CLA variants like the CLA 200 or CLA 250, the 180d felt noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, its lower power output also contributed to improved fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 180d Shooting Brake typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a multimedia system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features including ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was generally fabric, with options for leather upgrades. Common optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded sound system, navigation system, and parking assist features. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered progressive upgrades in terms of interior materials, exterior styling, and technology features.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 180d Shooting Brake featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The electric power steering offered light and precise steering feel. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering, but the overall setup was geared towards everyday usability rather than track performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 180d Shooting Brake was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option within the CLA range. Its low running costs and stylish design appealed to buyers seeking an affordable and economical premium estate car. Compared to the gasoline-powered CLA 180, the 180d offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for drivers covering long distances. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the refinement and performance of its gasoline counterparts. Against competitors like the Audi A3 Sportback and BMW 1 Series, the CLA 180d offered a compelling combination of style, practicality, and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The OM 608 engine family, including the version used in the CLA 180d, has proven to be relatively reliable, although like all modern diesel engines, it is susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly. In the used car market, the CLA 180d Shooting Brake represents a relatively affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz premium estate car segment. Its fuel efficiency and practicality continue to make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a stylish and economical vehicle.
