The Mercedes-Benz CLA 180d Shooting Brake (X117), produced from 2015 to April 2016, represents an entry-level diesel variant within the broader CLA Shooting Brake lineup. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, it catered to buyers seeking the stylish design of the CLA in a more economical package. This model combined a 1.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine with Mercedes-Benz’s 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission, offering a balance between comfort and efficiency. It was primarily sold in the European market, where diesel engines held significant popularity due to favorable taxation and fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Shooting Brake (X117) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 180d (109 Hp) 7G-DCT |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | April, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 4.7-4.9 l/100 km (50 – 48 US mpg, 60.1 – 57.6 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 3.8-4 l/100 km (61.9 – 58.8 US mpg, 74.3 – 70.6 UK mpg, 26.3 – 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.1-4.3 l/100 km (57.4 – 54.7 US mpg, 68.9 – 65.7 UK mpg, 24.4 – 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 107-114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp, 76.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 183.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 607.951 |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1990 kg (4387.2 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1354 l (47.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 745 kg (1642.44 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4630 mm (182.28 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2699 mm (106.26 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 915 mm (36.02 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1016 mm (40 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| 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 with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with 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 | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLA 180d Shooting Brake utilized the OM607.951 engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, designed for efficiency and reduced emissions. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output, and a common-rail direct fuel injection system operating at a high pressure of 15.5:1 compression ratio. The engine produces 109 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The 7G-DCT (7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission) is a key component, offering 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 109 hp output and the 7G-DCT transmission provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.9 seconds. The engine delivers its peak torque at relatively low revs, making it suitable for everyday driving and providing sufficient power for overtaking maneuvers. Compared to higher-powered CLA variants like the CLA 250, the 180d feels noticeably slower. However, the 7G-DCT transmission helps to mitigate some of the power deficit by ensuring the engine is always in the optimal gear. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, prioritizing smooth cruising over rapid acceleration. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but lacks the all-wheel-drive stability of some other CLA models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 180d Shooting Brake typically came with a standard equipment list that included features like air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic infotainment system with a display screen. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Standard safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded infotainment systems with navigation, parking sensors, and various driver assistance systems. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that added cosmetic enhancements and additional comfort features.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 180d utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension setup is tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness, prioritizing a smooth ride over aggressive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 180d Shooting Brake was generally well-received as a practical and fuel-efficient option within the CLA range. Critics praised its stylish design and comfortable interior, but noted that the engine lacked the punch of more powerful variants. Fuel economy was a major selling point, with combined fuel consumption figures ranging from 4.1 to 4.3 l/100 km (57.4 – 54.7 US mpg). Compared to the CLA 200d, which offered more power, the 180d was more affordable and appealed to buyers prioritizing economy over performance. Against competitors like the Audi A3 Sportback and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, the CLA 180d offered a compelling combination of style, practicality, and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The OM607.951 engine, while not known for being exceptionally robust, has proven to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging and occasional turbocharger problems. The 7G-DCT transmission is generally reliable, but requires regular fluid changes to prevent issues. In the used car market, the CLA 180d Shooting Brake remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish and economical estate car. Its relatively low running costs and comfortable ride make it a practical option for daily commuting and long-distance journeys. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and ensure the car has been properly maintained.
