From behind the steering wheel the redesigned 2020 AMG CLA, whether it is the 35 or 45, is a sports car. AMG’s precise steering and on-point suspension produces an inspiring handling package. The turbocharged engine and dual-clutch transmission yield excellent acceleration and the AMG brake package provides confident stopping power.
Sit in the front passenger’s seat or plant yourself in the rear seating and the CLA becomes a luxurious family-friendly sedan (although Mercedes refers to it as a coupe because of the styling). We aren’t saying that the compact CLA will meet the needs of every family, but AMG has done a lot to make the enthusiast darling more practical for 2020. Thanks to a nicely-appointed interior that is bigger than the outgoing model with added (and greatly appreciated) rear headroom, the CLA becomes a true competitor in the highly competitive compact luxury sedan segment.
Three Variants of CLA
For 2020, the CLA sedan is offered in three different trim levels: the base CLA 250, and the two cars that we spent time with: the AMG CLA 35 and AMG CLA 45.
The CLA 250 is powered by turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that is rated at 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The base 250 model is front-wheel-drive, but Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel-drive is available as an option.
The AMG CLA 35 includes a more powerful version of the 2.0-liter turbo rated at 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. For many years 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque was the magic formula for a brilliant sports car and with close to those numbers, it is hard to deny the performance of the CLA 35. Zero to sixty takes 4.8 seconds (less by some outlets). All-wheel-drive and the AMG performance additions make the 35 a strong contender in the segment. Both the 250 and 35 are equipped with an intuitive seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
If the 35’s bump boost isn’t enough; the AMG 45 turns up the volume to the tune of 382 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Mashing the accelerator to the floor yields gasps from passengers and contentment from even the most discerning enthusiasts. All-wheel-drive and the AMG suspension, coupled with the hardy dual-clutch EIGHT speed automatic transmission means nearly instant traction; the launch can be quite visceral.
Exterior Styling That Makes an Impression
Thanks to a “sharknose” grille and a svelte silhouette, the CLA looks professional yet aggressive. Yes, the design is a bit flashy but the Mercedes design team shows great restraint avoiding clichés and over styling in favor of simple flowing lines. The result is a sedan that almost passes for a sports coupe – even when you’re staring directly at the rear C-pillar. Standard features on the base 250 include LED headlights and taillights, a panorama roof and 18-inch alloy wheels. AMG 35 and 45 models get 19-inch wheels, unique grilles and a list of AMG exterior touches.
A Tech-filled Interior that is Sporty-Comfortable
The CLA is equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s newest infotainment system, Mercedes-Benz User Experience or MBUX. The system is intuitive and looks great. Our AMG review vehicles included a digital voice assistant that responds to the word “Mercedes.” We found ourselves asking Mercedes about the coming weekend’s weather in exotica locales, just to know what we were missing. The system is highly configurable and works well with Apple and Android devices.
AMG models include a set of performance apps that provide the driver with important information at a glance. Our favorite setting provided instant horsepower and torque numbers along with engine oil and transmission oil temperatures all displayed on the 10.25-inch touchscreen display.
Standard active safety features include active brake assist, emergency call service, attention assist, blind spot assist, rearview camera and crosswind assist. Additionally, the all models also come with 8 air bags, an electric parking brake, rain-sensing windshield wipers and an antitheft alarm system.
The 2020 CLA 250 starts at $36,650. The AMG CLA 35 and 45 start at $46,900 and $54,800 respectively.
