The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200d Shooting Brake (X118), produced from June 2020 to May 2023, represents a diesel-powered entry point into the CLA Shooting Brake model range. Positioned as a practical and fuel-efficient option, it caters to buyers seeking the stylish design of the CLA in a versatile wagon body style. This variant utilizes a 1.95-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 150 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It occupies the lower-mid range of the CLA Shooting Brake lineup, slotting below more powerful gasoline variants like the CLA 250 and the performance-oriented AMG CLA 35 and 45 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X118) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 200d (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 2020 |
| End of production | May, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.8-5.4 l/100 km (49 – 43.6 US mpg, 58.9 – 52.3 UK mpg, 20.8 – 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 127-143 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 6.1-6.3 l/100 km (38.6 – 37.3 US mpg, 46.3 – 44.8 UK mpg, 16.4 – 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 3.9-4.3 l/100 km (60.3 – 54.7 US mpg, 72.4 – 65.7 UK mpg, 25.6 – 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.7-5.1 l/100 km (50 – 46.1 US mpg, 60.1 – 55.4 UK mpg, 21.3 – 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 125-133 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 221 km/h (137.32 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6D-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 215.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3400-4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1400-3200 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 654.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1950 cm3 (119 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.3 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1485-1489 kg (3273.86 – 3282.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090-2094 kg (4607.66 – 4616.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 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) |
| AdBlue tank | 23.8 l (6.29 US gal | 5.24 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4688 mm (184.57 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1999 mm (78.7 in.) |
| Height | 1442 mm (56.77 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2729 mm (107.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1612 mm (63.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1602 mm (63.07 in.) |
| Front overhang | 927 mm (36.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1032 mm (40.63 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
INTRODUCTION
The X118 generation CLA Shooting Brake, launched in 2020, builds upon the success of the original CLA, offering a more practical wagon variant without sacrificing the coupe-like styling. The CLA 200d, powered by a 1.95-liter diesel engine, was a key model in European markets where diesel fuel remains popular due to its fuel efficiency and lower running costs. In the US market, the CLA Shooting Brake was not officially offered, with the CLA sedan being the sole body style available. The 200d trim aimed to provide a balance between affordability, fuel economy, and acceptable performance for everyday driving.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLA 200d is the OM 654.920, a 1.95-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its compact design and advanced technology. It features a high-pressure common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at pressures up to 2,700 bar. The engine also incorporates a variable geometry turbocharger with an intercooler, optimizing boost pressure for improved power and efficiency. The valvetrain utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The engine is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (8G-DCT), which provides quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission is known for its efficiency and responsiveness, contributing to the car’s overall fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 200d Shooting Brake, with its 150 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque, offers adequate performance for daily commuting and long-distance travel. While not a sports car, the engine provides sufficient power for overtaking maneuvers and maintaining highway speeds. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth shifts and keeping the engine in its optimal power band. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.4 seconds. Compared to the more powerful CLA 250, the 200d feels noticeably slower, particularly during acceleration. However, the diesel engine’s strong low-end torque makes it feel responsive in city driving. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides good traction in most conditions, but can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 200d Shooting Brake typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. Interior upholstery was typically Artico leatherette (synthetic leather), with options for genuine leather upgrades. Common optional extras included a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen display, a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system. 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 200d Shooting Brake utilizes an independent suspension setup at both the front and rear. The front suspension employs a McPherson strut design with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, while the rear features a multi-link suspension with a stabilizer bar. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features, enhancing safety and control. The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 200d Shooting Brake was generally well-received by automotive critics, particularly for its fuel efficiency and practicality. Reviewers praised the stylish design and spacious interior, but some noted that the engine could feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded. Compared to the gasoline-powered CLA 250, the 200d offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The 200d also provided a more affordable entry point into the CLA Shooting Brake range. In terms of reliability, the OM 654 engine family has proven to be generally robust, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues can occur with frequent short trips.
Legacy
The CLA 200d Shooting Brake represents a compelling option for buyers seeking a stylish, fuel-efficient, and practical wagon. The OM 654 diesel engine has established a reputation for reliability and longevity, making these vehicles a potentially good long-term investment. On the used car market, the CLA 200d Shooting Brake remains a popular choice, particularly in Europe, due to its combination of affordability, fuel economy, and practicality. Regular maintenance, including timely servicing of the DPF, is crucial to ensure the continued reliability of this powertrain.
