Third-Generation Mercedes-Benz CLA Spied Testing; Read Here

The third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA was recently spotted testing in southern Europe. Being heavily camouflaged, this test mule depicted significant styling changes over the current iteration. The interior, on the other hand, is also heavily redesigned, plus this compact sedan is now more feature-loaded than before. 

For those unaware, Mercedes-Benz India delisted the CLA model from its website in 2020 and replaced it with the A-Class Limousine. That said, the second-generation CLA didn’t arrive on our shores.

A Glimpse

Mercedes-Benz is now gearing up to launch its compact sedan very soon, the CLA, as the German automobile manufacturer was recently spotted testing the vehicle. The latest spy shots indicated the presence of sharper and sleeker LED headlights, complemented by the new wraparound LED taillamps. 

Additionally, there is a new illuminated star LED pattern inside the headlights, which brings the front fascia’s design in line with the new-age Mercedes cars, especially the upcoming new-generation E-Class. 

This test mule also features flush door handles, a moonroof, a new set of aerodynamic alloy wheels, and a lifted departure angle (rear bumper). The first-generation CLA had a very low departure angle, which was not suitable for the Indian roads. But, this time, the German luxury carmaker seems to have rectified that problem. 

Besides that, the interior of the third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA sedan is likely to have two displays- a fully digital instrument cluster and a cascaded-down infotainment unit. It might include a third display for the co-passenger but the company might keep that as an optional feature or will be available as standard in selected countries. 

Further, this compact sedan is deemed to offer an ADAS suite, front ventilated seats, memory seats, 64-colour ambient lighting, leatherette upholstery, connected car technology, SOS/RSA buttons, anti-glare mirrors (IRVM and ORVMs), drive modes, wireless charging trays, type-C USB ports, etc. Other onboard features will comprise rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, high-beam assist, traction control, ESC, multiple airbags, and ABS with EBD, to name a few. 

Specifications  

The 3rd-gen CLA will be underpinned by the new MMA platform, which will also underpin the future A-Class, GLA, and GLB. Further, the CLA will have petrol and hybrid engines available, but no plug-in hybrids. It will also ditch the diesel engine. 

However, it will likely use the M282, 1.3-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine, which also powers the A-Class Limousine. This engine produces 161bhp and 270Nm of torque. Interestingly, this engine is co-developed by Renault.

A pure EV Mercedes CLA may arrive later but not soon. The all-electric prototype was displayed a year ago, and industry reports speculate that the CLA EV will be available with single- or dual-motor powertrains, coupled with different battery options, while providing ranges up to 750km (claimed). 

Availability

Mercedes-Benz hasn’t made an official announcement regarding the launch of the third-generation CLA sedan. The global launch is expected to commence next year. 

Meanwhile, we doubt if Mercedes-Benz India will bring this vehicle to our market, considering the availability of the A-Class Limousine. 

 

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