The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 (C118), produced from 2019 to January 2023, represents the entry point into the CLA Coupe range. Positioned as a stylish and relatively affordable option within the fourth-generation CLA (C118) series, it aimed to attract buyers seeking a premium compact coupe experience. This variant, powered by a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 163 horsepower, was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where smaller displacement engines are favored. It served as a key model in Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to offer a diverse lineup catering to a wide range of customer preferences, bridging the gap between aspirational luxury and accessible pricing.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Coupe (C118) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 200 (163 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | January, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 132-153 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 8.1-8.5 l/100 km (29 – 27.7 US mpg, 34.9 – 33.2 UK mpg, 12.3 – 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.6-4.8 l/100 km (51.1 – 49 US mpg, 61.4 – 58.9 UK mpg, 21.7 – 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.9-6.2 l/100 km (39.9 – 37.9 US mpg, 47.9 – 45.6 UK mpg, 16.9 – 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 134-142 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 229 km/h (142.29 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 123 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 188.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp |
| Power per litre | 122.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1620 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1620 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 |
| 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 | 1325 kg (2921.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1935 kg (4265.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal, 9.46 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 700 kg (1543.24 lbs.) |
| Length | 4688 mm (184.57 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Height | 1439 mm (56.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2729 mm (107.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1612 mm (63.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) 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 | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 200 utilizes the M 282 DE 14 AL engine, a 1.332-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, designed for efficiency and scalability. It features direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler, contributing to its responsive power delivery. The engine’s architecture prioritizes reduced friction and optimized combustion for improved fuel economy. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a traditional driving experience. The engine’s relatively small displacement and turbocharging contribute to a broad torque curve, peaking at 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) at 1620 rpm. This allows for decent acceleration and flexibility in everyday driving situations.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 200, with its 163 horsepower and front-wheel drive configuration, delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.5 seconds. While not a performance-oriented variant, the turbocharger provides adequate power for merging onto highways and overtaking. Compared to higher-output CLA models like the CLA 250, the 200 offers a more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving style. The 6-speed manual transmission provides precise gear changes, but the gear ratios are tuned for economy rather than outright performance. The front-wheel drive setup offers good traction in most conditions, but can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 200 typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a multimedia touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety systems including automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was generally fabric, with options for leather upgrades. Standard dashboard configuration included analog gauges with a central display screen. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, navigation, and various driver assistance packages. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered progressive upgrades in terms of interior materials, exterior styling, and technology features.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 200 utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a balance between comfort and handling. The suspension is tuned for a relatively soft ride, prioritizing comfort over sporty handling. Braking systems consisted of disc brakes on all four wheels. The CLA 200’s weight of approximately 1325 kg (2921.12 lbs) is relatively low for a modern compact coupe, contributing to its agility. Stabilizer bars were included on both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 200 was generally well-received by critics as an attractive and affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand. Its fuel economy, ranging from 5.9 to 6.2 l/100 km (39.9 – 37.9 US mpg), was a key selling point. Compared to the CLA 250, the 200 offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. The 1.3-liter engine, while efficient, was sometimes criticized for feeling slightly underpowered, particularly when fully loaded. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported with the engine or transmission.
Legacy
The CLA 200 (C118) has established itself as a popular choice in the used car market, offering a blend of style, comfort, and affordability. The M 282 engine has proven to be relatively reliable, with proper maintenance. The CLA 200’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to provide a taste of the Mercedes-Benz experience at a more accessible price point. Its compact size and fuel efficiency make it well-suited for urban driving, while its stylish design continues to attract buyers seeking a premium compact coupe.
