2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 Review: Style Meets Performance

Introduction

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 is a compact luxury sedan that combines striking design, advanced technology, and impressive performance. As an entry-level model in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup, the CLA250 aims to attract younger buyers seeking a blend of style and sophistication. But does it deliver on its promises? In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the CLA250’s design, performance, interior, safety features, and how it stacks up against competitors like the BMW 228i Gran Coupe and Audi A3 Quattro.

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Design and Style

The 2020 CLA250 is undeniably stylish, with a sleek, coupe-like silhouette that turns heads. Its low roofline, sculpted body panels, and bold front grille give it a sporty and modern appearance. The four-door coupe design is a controversial concept, but Mercedes-Benz executes it well, making the CLA250 stand out in a crowded segment.

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• Exterior Highlights: LED headlights, panoramic sunroof, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
• Color Options: Available in a range of colors, including the eye-catching Denim Blue.

However, the CLA250’s design comes with some compromises. The low roofline and forward-positioned B-pillar make entry and exit challenging, especially for taller passengers. The rear seats are cramped, with limited headroom and legroom, making them best suited for occasional use.

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Interior and Comfort

Inside, the CLA250 boasts a premium cabin with high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology. The twin-screen dashboard, featuring a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment display, gives the interior a futuristic feel. The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system is intuitive and responsive, though the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant can be overly sensitive.

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• Seating: Heated and ventilated front seats are available, but they’re part of an optional package.
• Cargo Space: With 13.1 cubic feet of trunk space, the CLA250 offers more room than competitors like the BMW 228i Gran Coupe and Audi A3 Quattro.

Despite its compact size, the CLA250’s interior feels luxurious, with attention to detail and a quiet, refined ambiance.

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Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the CLA250 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the CLA250 delivers smooth acceleration and responsive handling.

• Driving Modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual modes allow drivers to tailor the driving experience.
• Fuel Efficiency: The CLA250 4Matic achieves an EPA-estimated 23/33/27 mpg (city/highway/combined).
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While the CLA250 performs well at higher speeds, its low-speed behavior can be jerky, with noticeable lag in the transmission. This can make stop-and-go driving less enjoyable.

Safety and Technology

The 2020 CLA250 comes equipped with a range of advanced safety features, though many are optional. Standard features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a backup camera. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.

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• Infotainment: The MBUX system supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation with augmented reality.
• Driver Assistance: The Driver Assistance Package adds semi-autonomous driving capabilities, such as active steering assist and traffic sign recognition.

However, some features that should be standard, like keyless entry, are only available as part of expensive packages.

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Competitors

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 faces stiff competition from other compact luxury sedans, including the BMW 228i Gran Coupe and Audi A3 Quattro. Here’s how they compare:

• BMW 228i Gran Coupe: Offers similar styling and performance but lacks the CLA250’s premium interior.
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• Audi A3 Quattro: More affordable and fuel-efficient but smaller and less luxurious.
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Ultimately, the CLA250 stands out for its design and interior quality, though it comes at a higher price.

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Pros and Cons

• Pros: Stylish design, premium interior, advanced technology, good cargo space.
• Cons: Cramped rear seats, expensive options, jerky low-speed transmission.

Conclusion

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 is a compelling choice for buyers seeking a stylish and luxurious compact sedan. While it has some drawbacks, such as limited rear-seat space and a high price tag, its design, performance, and technology make it a strong contender in its class. If you’re willing to pay a premium for style and sophistication, the CLA250 is worth considering.