2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
What’s new
- AMG CLA 45 comes with more standard features for 2019
- Part of the first CLA generation introduced for 2013
Pros
- Generous list of standard features
- Athletic handling instills confidence
- Luxury badging without the premium price
- Potent performance from the AMG CLA 45
Cons
- Engine and transmission are slow to respond at low speeds
- The ride can be rather stiff
- Rear seats are confining
- Some interior elements aren't up to luxury car standards
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which CLA-Class does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
Up until this year, the CLA was the most affordable vehicle in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Now there's a new A-Class on the way that takes over that position, while the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA continues much as it has for the last six years.
When the CLA 250 debuted in 2013, we were far from impressed. It was plagued by lazy responses from the engine and transmission, a needlessly harsh ride quality, and some interior elements that were disappointing for a Mercedes-Benz. Over the years, the CLA has received some updates and improvements, but these still aren't enough to make the CLA a truly enticing pick for an entry-level luxury sedan.
Overall, we think the new A-Class is a better pick for an affordable Mercedes-Benz. It has a sleeker-looking interior with more of Mercedes' latest technology, plus more refined performance. You might also want to check out Audi's A3 as another option.
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class configurations
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA sedan is offered in CLA 250 (208 horsepower, 258 pound-feet of torque) and a higher-performance AMG CLA 45 (375 hp, 350 lb-ft) trims. Both models are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The standard CLA 250 is front-wheel-drive, but all-wheel drive (Mercedes' 4Matic) is available as an option. All-wheel drive is standard with the AMG CLA 45.
Standard feature highlights for the CLA 250 models include 17-inch wheels, automatic wipers, selectable drive modes, dual-zone automatic climate control, simulated leather upholstery (MB-Tex), eight-way power front sport seats with memory functions, and 60/40-split folding rear seats with a center pass-through.
On the technology front, you get an 8-inch infotainment screen, Mercedes' COMAND infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, forward collision warning and mitigation, a drowsy driver monitoring system, the Mbrace emergency telematics, and an audio system with a CD player, HD radio, two SD card slots and two USB ports.
Upgrading to the AMG CLA 45 adds 19-inch wheels, LED headlights and running lights, unique styling and aerodynamic flourishes, a sport exhaust system, upgraded brakes and transmission, a torque-vectoring differential, a sport steering wheel, simulated suede upholstery inserts and a 12-speaker premium Harman Kardon audio system.
There are a few main option packages to consider. These include the Premium package (keyless ignition and entry, a hands-free trunklid, blind-spot monitoring, heated front seats and satellite radio), the Convenience package (auto-dimming mirrors and a universal garage door opener), the Interior package (leather upholstery, upgraded dash and door trim, and interior ambient lighting), the Multimedia package (a navigation system, voice controls, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration) and the Driver Assistance package (adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning and intervention).
Many AMG-based styling elements are available on the CLA 250. Other notable add-ons include an automated parking system, an adjustable suspension, a panoramic sunroof and the Harman Kardon audio system. For 2019, the Premium and Convenience packages are included as standard equipment on the AMG CLA 45.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic | FWD)
Since this test was conducted in 2014, the current CLA has received some revisions, including a retuned suspension, a minor interior and exterior styling update, extendable front-seat thigh supports and a new infotainment screen. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's CLA 250, however.
Driving
Acceleration
Braking
Steering
Handling
Drivability
Comfort
Seat comfort
Ride comfort
Noise & vibration
Interior
Ease of use
Getting in/getting out
Roominess
Visibility
Quality
Utility
Small-item storage
Cargo space
Consumer reviews
There are no consumer reviews for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class.
Features & Specs
Safety
Our experts’ favorite CLA-Class safety features:
- Active Brake Assist
- Warns of an impending front collision and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't react.
- Blind-Spot Assist
- Displays a warning triangle in the mirror if a car is in your blind spot and beeps if you activate a turn signal.
- Attention Assist
- Uses many sensors and other data to tell if a driver is getting fatigued and suggests a rest stop.
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Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class vs. the competition
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
2018 Audi A3
Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class vs. Audi A3
The Audi A3 receives one of the highest Edmunds evaluation scores, not just in this entry-level luxury sedan class, but on the whole. It artfully balances sporting performance with comfort, and the interior lives up to the luxury badge. The rear seats are a little cramped, but not as much as the CLA's. The A3 betters the CLA in every significant metric and, quite frankly, this should be your benchmark.
Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class vs. BMW 2 Series
The BMW 2 Series ranks just as highly as the class-leading Audi A3, but it is a two-door coupe, not a sedan. Given that the back seats in the Audi, the Mercedes or the BMW are limiting, we consider the 2 Series a worthy competitor. The 2 Series is a joy to drive, whether you go with the base 230i or the powerful M240i. It's more sporty than the Benz, yet it's also more comfortable.
Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class vs. Volvo S60
The S60 is the newest entry-level luxury sedan and benefits from Volvo's latest renaissance. We like it for its elegant and understated design, its wide variety of powertrains and numerous safety features and innovations. As with other cars in Volvo's lineup, the infotainment system can be a little tough to operate at first, but with some time it can be intuitive.
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class for Sale
Get more for your trade-in
Edmunds shoppers get on average $235 more for their trade-in.
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See your car's valueFor the past six years, the CLA represented the most affordable model in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. For 2019, the all-new A-Class takes over that spot, slotting under the CLA by a few thousand dollars. The CLA 250 costs about the same as a nicely equipped family sedan and delivers a decent amount of refinement. Understandably, it's not as luxurious as other Mercedes vehicles, partially because those models have received the latest interior treatments and features, but buyers should be satisfied for the price.
Standard feature highlights for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 include 17-inch wheels, selectable drive modes, dual-zone automatic climate control, simulated leather upholstery, an 8-inch infotainment screen, Mercedes' COMAND infotainment system, a rearview camera, forward collision warning and mitigation, a drowsy driver monitoring system, and the Mbrace emergency telematics. The AMG CLA 45 adds a more powerful engine, all-wheel drive, 19-inch wheels, LED headlights, unique styling and aerodynamic flourishes, a sport exhaust system, upgraded brakes and transmission, a torque-vectoring differential, a sport steering wheel and faux suede upholstery elements.
Mercedes offers most of the CLA 250's optional features in packages. Key features to consider include keyless entry and ignition, blind-spot monitoring, heated front seats, leather upholstery, a navigation system, smartphone integration, adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. Many of these items are also standard on the AMG CLA 45.
Among other entry-level luxury sedans, the CLA 250 trails our class favorite, the Audi A3, which is similarly priced but quite a bit nicer to drive. The Mercedes gets a slight edge for price and feature content over the stalwart BMW 3 Series, but the advantages for performance and refinement are worth the added outlay. Check out the competition and all of Edmunds' resources to get the right fit for your tastes and budget.
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Overview
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class is offered in the following submodels: CLA-Class AMG CLA 45, CLA-Class Sedan. Available styles include CLA 250 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM), CLA 250 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM), and AMG CLA 45 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM).
What do people think of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and all its trim types. 0 Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 CLA-Class.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 CLA-Class featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class?
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class CLA 250 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
Available Inventory:We are showing 47 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class CLA 250 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class CLA 250 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
Available Inventory:We are showing 19 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class CLA 250 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Classes are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class for sale near. There are currently 101 new 2019 CLA-Classes listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $34,945 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class.
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Mercedes-Benz lease specials
Related vehicle information
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Information
- 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Build and Price TMV®
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- 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Consumer Reviews
- 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Features & Specs
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- 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Review
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- 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Used For Sale Near Me
- 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Ownership Costs