Mercedes Benz CLA 200 D SportIf you are someone who fancies purchasing a Mercedes-Benz sedan, but do not want to spend Rs 50 lakh or above, Mercedes CLA could be the right option for you. It is one of the best sedans ideal for first-time car buyers.
Compared to other Mercedes models, it is cheaper, but as far as design, performance and technology feature are concerned, it even outperforms the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. If the starting price of CLA is Rs 32 lakh, the lowest priced model of C-Class costs Rs 42 lakh. Not just that you can save around Rs 10 lakh, but you must be surprised by the sheer value for money that CLA has to offer.
Here is the test-drive impressions and key specifications of the all-new CLA, the most affordable sedan from the German automaker:
Flamboyant styling
CLA sports a luxurious and aesthetically pleasing look. The 4-door coupe is designed for elegance, quality and comfort, and offer top-of-the-line performance as well. It grabbed eyeballs when it was unveiled in 2012, and went on to become one of the most popular Mercedes models across the globe. Design-wise, CLA arguably is the funkiest sedan from the Mercedes stable.
Driving pleasure
There are not many cars that can challenge the build quality, control and driving comfort, and the class of Mercedes Benz. CLA is based on the front-wheel-drive platform shared with the A and B-Class. Most of the Benz models in the C-Class and above have either the rear-wheel drive or the four-wheel drive setup.
Cheaper yet classy
The new CLA’s quality is not compromised, despite being a cheaper model. The standard of engine, gearbox and other mechanical features is similar to that of premium Mercedes models. Introduced in the Indian market in 2015, the facelifted and slightly updated CLA was launched in the country recently.
Funky and sporty
CLA boasts a sensual design, epitomizing the highly premium and futuristic design language of Mercedes models. The vehicle is artfully designed and exquisitely crafted. Eye-catching headlamps, sporty grills and the huge three-pointed star logo add to the car’s youthful feel and aggressive demeanor. Headlamps and the bumper are redesigned and sport a fresh look. The same 17-inch alloy wheel design of the outgoing model is retained. The front structural edge over the wings flows towards the rear, thus enhancing the car’s youthful and energetic appearance. The muscular character lines, tail lights and the boot opening are as stylish as that of the outgoing model.
Fresh interiors
Mercedes Benz CLA 200 D SportMoving on to the interiors, the gorgeous styling of Benz vehicles remains intact in the model. The infotainment system has added features such as smartphone connectivity for both Android and Apple devices (Android Auto and CarPlay compatibility). The 7-inch screen has made way for an -8-inch screen. The instrument cluster has received minor cosmetic changes along with a slew of premium features. The switch for three driving modes – Sports, Comfort and Eco – is fixed next to the hazard signal. The AC vents and music system are of superior quality.
Comfy seats
The four sporty seats are adjustable for reach and are designed to provide maximum comfort to the passengers. One of the drawbacks is that there is no electronic mechanism that allows you to tilt the steering wheel up or down. There are ample USB ports as well as storage space.
Let’s fly!
Mercedes Benz CLA 200 D SportIts 2148cc diesel engine has the ability to pump out a maximum power of 130 bhp in the range of 3200 to 4000rpm along with a peak torque of 300Nm at just 1400-3000rpm. The car can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 9 seconds. The maximum speed limit is 220km.
Smooth and nimble
The automatic gear and paddle-shift facilities ensure comfortable and nimble handling. There is no question of getting exhausted after a long drive. Keep switching to the three modes and you will be able to enjoy the fun of fierce driving as well as simple and easy riding. The vehicle is integrated with parking assist to make parallel parking and rear parking incredibly easy. Remember, there are ultrasonic sensors and cameras, but no audible buzzer. The manufactures promise an impressive mileage of 17.9 km/l in average riding conditions.
Stop dreaming and start doing!
The updated CLA can finally fulfill your dream to own a Mercedes vehicle. It costs over just four or five lakh than a normal Japanese multi-purpose vehicle.
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