The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 (C118), equipped with the 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission, was a key variant in the first generation (C118) CLA Coupe lineup produced from 2019 to January 2023. Positioned as an entry-level offering, it aimed to bring the stylish CLA Coupe within reach of a broader customer base while still delivering a premium Mercedes-Benz experience. This model played a significant role in attracting younger buyers to the brand, offering a blend of aesthetics, technology, and reasonable running costs. The CLA 200 represented a crucial step in Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to expand its compact car portfolio and compete effectively in the premium compact segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Coupe (C118) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 200 (163 Hp) 7G-DCT |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | January, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.8-6.6 l/100 km (40.6 – 35.6 US mpg, 48.7 – 42.8 UK mpg, 17.2 – 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 132-150 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.4-5.7 l/100 km (43.6 – 41.3 US mpg, 52.3 – 49.6 UK mpg, 18.5 – 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 124-131 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 229 km/h (142.29 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 119.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 183.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 122.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1620-4000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1620-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 282.914 |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm (2.84 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| 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 | 1360 kg (2998.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1950 kg (4299.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 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 | 715 kg (1576.31 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 | 1439-1444 mm (56.65 – 56.85 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 104 mm (4.09 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.24 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| 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 G-DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 205/55 R17; 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 6.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 (C118) with the 7G-DCT transmission, launched in 2019, was a significant addition to the compact luxury car market. Built on the MFA2 (Mercedes-Benz Front-wheel-drive Architecture 2) platform – also underpinning the A-Class – the CLA Coupe aimed to offer a more stylish and emotionally appealing alternative to traditional compact sedans and hatchbacks. The CLA 200 specifically served as the entry point to the CLA range, providing a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and the Mercedes-Benz brand experience. It remained in production until January 2023, undergoing minor revisions during its lifecycle.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLA 200 lies the M 282.914 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is part of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, designed for efficiency and scalability. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver 163 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1620 and 4000 rpm. The 7G-DCT (7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission) is a crucial component, offering quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission features two separate clutches, one for odd-numbered gears and one for even-numbered gears, allowing for pre-selection of the next gear and minimizing interruption in power delivery. The engine also incorporates Start & Stop technology and a particulate filter to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6d-ISC-FCM standards.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 200 7G-DCT delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing smoothness over outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.2 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in around 7.8 seconds. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. The 7G-DCT transmission contributes to a seamless driving experience, with quick and precise shifts. Compared to higher-output CLA variants like the CLA 250, the 200 feels less eager to accelerate, but its lower power output also translates to improved fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, with a focus on maintaining low engine speeds during cruising. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, although it lacks the all-wheel-drive grip of some competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 200 typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system (upgradeable to 10.25 inches), and a suite of safety features including Active Brake Assist. Interior upholstery was generally Artico leatherette, with options for genuine leather upgrades. Standard trim included aluminum trim elements, and optional packages could add features like ambient lighting, heated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The CLA 200 was often offered with various styling packages, allowing customers to personalize the exterior appearance with different wheels, spoilers, and body kits.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 200 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. A transverse stabilizer bar is fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The standard tire size varied depending on the trim level, ranging from 205/60 R16 to 225/45 R18.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 200 was generally well-received by critics as an attractive and well-equipped entry-level luxury car. Its fuel economy, ranging from 5.8 to 6.6 l/100 km (40.6-35.6 US mpg), was a strong selling point. Compared to the more powerful CLA 250, the 200 offered a more affordable price point, making it accessible to a wider range of buyers. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained under hard acceleration, and the front-wheel-drive configuration limited its dynamic capabilities compared to all-wheel-drive competitors like the Audi A3. Against rivals like the BMW 2 Series Coupe, the CLA 200 offered a more stylish design but potentially less engaging driving experience.
Legacy
The CLA 200 (C118) with the 7G-DCT transmission has established itself as a reliable and relatively affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand. The 1.3-liter turbocharged engine, while not known for exceptional longevity, has proven to be generally durable with proper maintenance. The 7G-DCT transmission is also considered reliable, although regular fluid changes are essential. On the used car market, the CLA 200 remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish and well-equipped compact coupe. Its combination of fuel efficiency, comfort, and brand prestige continues to make it a compelling option in its segment.
