The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200d 4MATIC, produced from October 2019 to January 2023, represents a compelling entry point into the premium compact estate (wagon) market. Part of the X118 series CLA Shooting Brake generation, this variant combined a diesel engine with all-wheel drive and a dual-clutch transmission, offering a blend of efficiency, practicality, and Mercedes-Benz luxury. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the CLA lineup, it catered to buyers seeking lower running costs and all-weather capability without sacrificing the brand’s sophisticated image. This model aimed to bridge the gap between the base CLA models and the more performance-oriented AMG variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X118) |
| Type | CLA 200d (150 Hp) 4MATIC 8G-DCT |
| Start of production | October, 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) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 132-153 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 5.9-6.6 l/100 km (39.9 – 35.6 US mpg, 47.9 – 42.8 UK mpg, 16.9 – 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.1-4.4 l/100 km (57.4 – 53.5 US mpg, 68.9 – 64.2 UK mpg, 24.4 – 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 4.8-5.1 l/100 km (49 – 46.1 US mpg, 58.9 – 55.4 UK mpg, 20.8 – 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 125-135 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp, 96.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 205.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp |
| 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 654q DE 20 SCR |
| Engine displacement | 1950 cm3 (119 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 | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1555 kg (3428.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2185 kg (4817.1 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 | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 104 mm (4.09 in.) |
| Approach angle | 13.4° |
| Departure angle | 14.3° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 9.4° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R17; 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200d 4MATIC Shooting Brake, launched in late 2019, is a five-door estate car based on the MFA2 (Mercedes-Benz Front-wheel-drive Architecture) platform, also known as the 1HX0 platform. It’s essentially a more practical version of the CLA Coupe, offering increased cargo space and versatility. The “200d” designation signifies the engine – a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel – and the “4MATIC” indicates Mercedes-Benz’s all-wheel-drive system. This particular variant aimed to appeal to European buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and all-weather traction in a stylish package. In the US market, the CLA Shooting Brake wasn’t officially sold, making this a primarily European offering.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLA 200d 4MATIC lies the OM 654q DE 20 SCR engine, a 1.95-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a key component of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and refinement. It utilizes a second-generation commonrail direct injection system operating at pressures up to 2,700 bar, ensuring precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. The engine also features a variable geometry turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing both low-end torque and overall power output. The SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system, integrated into the exhaust aftertreatment, reduces nitrogen oxide emissions. The engine is paired with an 8G-DCT (8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission), a sophisticated gearbox known for its quick and smooth shifts. This transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 200d 4MATIC delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the 150 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque provide adequate acceleration for everyday driving. The 0-60 mph sprint takes around 8.3 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 124.9 mph. The 8G-DCT transmission contributes to smooth gear changes, and the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to the more powerful CLA 250 or AMG variants, the 200d feels less eager to accelerate, but its lower weight and efficient engine contribute to better fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine doesn’t rev as high as in sportier models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 200d 4MATIC typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features, reflecting its premium positioning. These included automatic climate control, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system (upgradeable to 10.25 inches), Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Interior upholstery was typically Artico leather (Mercedes-Benz’s synthetic leather) or a combination of Artico and fabric. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered progressive upgrades in terms of interior materials, exterior styling, and technology features.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 200d 4MATIC utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between comfort and handling. The suspension is tuned to prioritize ride quality, but still offers decent body control in corners. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) are standard safety features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 200d 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and stylish design. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered at times, particularly when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to other diesel-powered compact estates, such as the Volkswagen Golf Estate TDI or the Audi A4 Avant TDI, the CLA 200d offered a more luxurious interior and a more sophisticated driving experience, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy figures were competitive, typically ranging from 49 to 55 mpg (US) on the combined cycle.
Legacy
The OM 654 diesel engine used in the CLA 200d 4MATIC has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While long-term reliability data is still accumulating, early reports suggest that the engine is generally robust and requires minimal maintenance. On the used car market, the CLA 200d 4MATIC represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish, efficient, and well-equipped estate car. Its all-wheel-drive system and diesel engine make it a practical choice for those living in regions with harsh winters or who frequently travel long distances. The combination of Mercedes-Benz build quality and relatively low running costs ensures continued demand for this variant in the years to come.
