2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA: More Stylish and Luxurious Than Ever
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA has undergone significant upgrades that enhance its status as a true member of the Mercedes family. With a revamped style, updated features, and a new mild-hybrid powertrain, this latest iteration aims to impress even the most discerning of car enthusiasts. After spending a week behind the wheel in the suburbs, I found the 2024 Mercedes CLA 250 4Matic to be a near-perfect blend of style and substance.
1. Eye-Catching Color
Starting with aesthetics may seem trivial, but the new Hyper Blue color for the 2024 model year is nothing short of striking. This turquoise/teal hue lends the car an undeniable presence, reminiscent of the vibrant colors seen in Miami Vice. During my week-long drive, its eye-catching color drew attention and admiration from onlookers, proving that this "entry-level" sedan can still turn heads.
2. Price Tag – Not for Budget Buyers
The CLA was initially positioned as an accessible entry into the Mercedes lineup, priced under $30,000. However, times have changed, and the CLA has followed suit. For 2024, the starting price is $43,200 for the front-wheel-drive version and $45,200 for the 250 4Matic. Optional features like multi-beam LED headlights, the Premium Package, and Burmester surround sound system push the price to a lofty $54,380, delivery included. Despite the steep price, the level of luxury and performance makes it feel worth every penny.
3. Luxurious Interior
Inside, the CLA exudes luxury, featuring Macchiato Beige upholstery with aluminum trim accents. The three centrally located, glossy black circular vents evoke a classic speedboat aesthetic, while the 10.25-inch customizable instrument panel provides a modern touch. The infotainment system, also housed in a 10.25-inch touchscreen, benefits from the latest MBUX system for 2024, striking the right balance between screens and physical buttons. Ambient lighting in a variety of colors, including purple, adds to the vehicle’s sophisticated ambiance.
4. A Peppy Powertrain with Character
The 2024 CLA introduces an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, replacing the previous seven-speed DCT. The new 48-volt belt-driven mild-hybrid system delivers 13 additional horsepower, now available earlier at 5,500 rpm, aiding acceleration without changing the overall engine ratings. With 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, the CLA 250 4Matic manages a respectable 0-60 mph time of 6.3 seconds. For those desiring more power, the CLA 35 AMG, priced just $2,000 higher, offers 302 horsepower from its turbo 2.0-liter engine.
5. The Future of the CLA: Shooting Brake Potential?
The CLA has always been a style icon, with its elegant, concave design and sleek silhouette that initially set it apart as a baby CLS. Although the design no longer feels as groundbreaking due to Mercedes’ cohesive design language spanning their core models, it still retains a stylish presence. To expand its appeal, especially as the model heads towards an all-electric future, Mercedes should consider bringing the Shooting Brake variant to the U.S. market. This model, already popular in other regions, offers a fusion of sedan and wagon, presenting a compelling option for buyers who prefer crossovers but also value the charm of a wagon.
Conclusion
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA is more Mercedes than ever, combining stylish design, luxurious features, and a peppy, efficient powertrain. While it may have lost its status as a groundbreaking design, it still captivates with its new Hyper Blue color and remains a sensational vehicle that feels worth its price tag. As we look to the future, the potential introduction of the Shooting Brake variant in the U.S. could provide the perfect middle ground for enthusiasts torn between crossovers and wagons.
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Jack Carney, Editor of Automotive.fyi
