Driving Experience of the Mercedes CLA 45 AMG
The AMG division is the sporty arm of the Mercedes group. Whenever Mercedes wants to enhance a car, they send it to AMG, where they transform it into a beast. Having never tested one of these cars, I decided it was time, starting with the CLA 45 AMG. (Check the car's prices and specifications here).
Exterior Design
The first thing that comes to mind when you see it is that it resembles the CLS. This is true as it is the smaller sibling of the CLS. In short, Mercedes has compressed the CLS into the CLA, adding some stickers and carbon fiber mirrors with a few red touches. Additionally, it features 19-inch alloy wheels and red brakes, giving it a fierce look.
Interior Materials
My opinions on this section are mixed. I liked that the front seats are sporty and comfortable, but they disturb rear passengers. I had to push the seat forward to avoid bothering those sitting behind me. I appreciated the Nappa leather, but the red stitching and seatbelts did not appeal to me. Additionally, the road and wind noise at high speeds can be bothersome. Overall, I wanted to love the interior, but I didn't. In comparison, the interior of the Audi S3 is superior.
Space and Visibility
Since this is a compact model, I didn't expect much space. If the rear passengers are shorter than 6 feet, they can sit comfortably. The sloping roofline does not help with space either. Therefore, it's best suited for four adults and a child. The trunk is not large either. Visibility is average, and you often have to rely on warning devices.
Interior Features
Mercedes is known for its impressive features, and the CLA is no exception. However, there are some features I expected to find that are absent. First, where are the electronic seats? This is a Mercedes that costs 240,000 AED! In my opinion, adaptive cruise control is not necessary in a compact model. Other than that, the remaining features are present.
Power and Transmission
This is the section where AMG shines. Its 2.0L 4-cylinder engine produces 360 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. The engine is fantastic, and the AMG team has done an amazing job! However, we are waiting to see the results of the Focus R and Golf R400 to start the competition. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds with launch control activated. However, during our test, it took 5.3 seconds. Mercedes needs to update the 7-speed transmission. My fuel consumption during the test was 14.2L/100km, which is SUV territory. The best way to consume fuel is by using the ECO mode. Even with it activated, I achieved a rate of 10.2L/100km. AMG, you need to improve this aspect as well.
Handling, Suspension, and Brakes
I have no complaints in this section. Driving this small beast is a delight. Its handling is excellent, and the AWD traction is fantastic. The suspension is a bit stiff, but you won't notice it on long drives. The brakes are incredible—definitely the best I've experienced so far. It stopped from 100 to 0 km/h in just 2.7 seconds. Amazing!
Do you remember the performance of the S3 in our first driving experience?
Conclusion
The CLA 45 AMG is an engineering marvel. Its closest competitor is the Audi S3 with 290 horsepower, which does not match the same level of enjoyment. However, as a buyer, I would consider the price. The S3 is priced at 150,000 AED, while the CLA is 240,000 AED. That's a 90,000 AED difference. Therefore, if given the choice, I would opt for the S3.
