The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 continues to offer an accessible entry point into the world of luxury sedans, attracting buyers with its sleek design and the prestigious Mercedes-Benz badge. Since its introduction a couple of years prior, the CLA has become a notable option for those seeking a compact luxury car without the higher price tag often associated with models like the C-Class. While price adjustments may have slightly shifted its original affordability, the 2016 CLA 250 remains competitively priced within its segment, presenting a compelling proposition for discerning buyers.
Despite being positioned as a more budget-friendly Mercedes-Benz, the CLA 250 doesn’t compromise on the essence of luxury. Our extensive experience with the CLA 250 model has highlighted several key strengths, including a remarkably quiet cabin that enhances driving comfort, well-balanced performance suitable for both city and highway driving, and impressive fuel economy that appeals to practical-minded consumers. Furthermore, the user-friendly ergonomics of the CLA 250 contribute to an enjoyable and intuitive driving experience. For those seeking even greater performance, the AMG CLA 45 variant elevates the CLA lineup with a significant power boost, now boasting 375 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Equipped with standard all-wheel drive and optimized transmission ratios, the CLA 45 delivers exhilarating acceleration, reaching 60 mph in a mere 4.1 seconds, according to manufacturer specifications.
However, potential buyers should consider certain trade-offs inherent in the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class design. While its coupelike silhouette is undeniably attractive, this styling choice impacts rear passenger headroom significantly. The sloping roofline reduces vertical space for rear occupants, and the CLA’s compact dimensions also limit rear legroom. Therefore, if rear passenger space is a primary concern, it’s worth evaluating whether the CLA 250 adequately meets your needs.
Ride comfort is another aspect to carefully consider. Mercedes-Benz addressed initial criticisms regarding ride harshness by implementing a more compliant suspension setup for the 2015 CLA 250 and offering the sport suspension as an option. Despite these adjustments, our testing indicates that the run-flat tires, often paired with the comfort-tuned suspension, are a major contributor to ride discomfort when encountering bumps and uneven road surfaces. Opting for a CLA 250 equipped with the sport suspension and standard tires could potentially offer a better balance between handling and ride quality. This configuration also eliminates the need for expensive run-flat tire replacements. For the 2016 model year, Mercedes-Benz introduced optional adaptive/adjustable suspension dampers for both the CLA 250 and the high-performance CLA 45, providing further customization of the driving experience.
While the CLA 250’s base price is appealing, it’s important to be aware that adding commonly desired luxury features can quickly increase the overall cost. Options such as keyless entry and ignition, a rearview camera, and heated seats, typically expected in a luxury vehicle, are not standard and will add to the final price. For those drawn to the AMG CLA 45’s performance, the price point climbs considerably, exceeding $50,000 when well-equipped. When comparing the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class to its competitors, the 2016 Audi A3 emerges as a strong contender and a top recommendation in the compact luxury sedan segment. The Audi A3, particularly with its smaller 1.8-liter engine, can be slightly more affordable than a base CLA. Equipping the A3 with a comparable 2.0-liter engine brings its price closer to the CLA, but it includes standard all-wheel drive, adding value.
If rear passenger room is a critical factor, alternatives like the surprisingly spacious Volkswagen GTI or well-equipped non-luxury midsize sedans should be considered. Alternatively, less feature-rich versions of larger luxury sedans like the Acura TLX or BMW 320i offer different compromises. Performance enthusiasts considering the AMG CLA 45 should also explore the 2016 Audi S3 and the 2016 BMW M235i. The Audi S3 mirrors the A3’s advantages with a more refined and luxurious interior, while the BMW M235i, a two-door model, excels in handling dynamics. Ultimately, the ideal choice depends on individual priorities and preferences. However, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 uniquely delivers a combination of distinctive style and the undeniable prestige associated with the iconic three-pointed star, making it a compelling option for those prioritizing brand image and design in a compact luxury sedan.
