In the competitive world of performance cars, the Mercedes-Benz CLA 35 AMG has accessible performance, a usable interior with that superb Mercedes design, some practicality, and all the good things that AMG brings to a compact family car.
If you happen to be in the market for a hot saloon and don’t want to go down the hot hatch route, the CLA 35 AMG has the same performance as the A35 AMG with added exec appeal. The CLA 35 AMG combines the classic elegance of a coupe with the raw power of an AMG, resulting in an accessible and exhilarating driving experience in the city or out on the open roads.
This car is priced at over 100k new and is currently for sale at Ballsbridge Motors for €89,950.
CLA 35 AMG Spec
Specific to this car currently listed on the Classic & Exotic site are the following: sports seats upholstered in Artico man-made leather with Dinamica microfibre in black with red double stitching which matches the 3-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather. The distinctive AMG centre console and instrument cluster which includes the specific AMG menu showing additional information such as gear indicator, G-Meter, Race Timer and engine data.
On the steering wheel there’s the ‘direct select’ circular gear shift shortcut and you also get some useful metallic steering wheel shift paddles. The infotainment includes Apple Carplay/Android Auto playing through the beautiful Burmester surround sound system, there’s a pano roof and heat-insulating dark-tinted glass for added stealthiness. It sits on Continental Sport Contact 6 tyres and if you get a puncture you’ll be relying on the Tirefit system with tire inflator to get you home.
Special mention : Athletic looking saloon with an incredible exhaust sound tracking every journey. Beautiful interior with AMG accents throughout. Great space to drive in.
Needs work : Older infotainment system, limited passenger space and high price.
| 302 hp | Petrol / Auto |
| 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds | Road Tax €600 |
| Price: €89,950 | Boot Space 460 litres |
Performance and Driving Experience
The CLA 35 AMG is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine, added to a mild-hybrid system for increased efficiency and a blip for performance. It produces an impressive 302 bhp and 295 lb ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.
Thanks to its four-wheel-drive system, the CLA 35 AMG provides an assured and enjoyable driving experience. The vehicle handles corners with precision and maintains excellent body control, making it a seriously quick car in point-to-point driving.
However, while the car’s performance is impressive, some drivers may find the driving experience to be less exciting compared to other performance cars. The engine’s sound is not particularly thrilling, and the car’s dual-clutch automatic gearbox can be a bit unresponsive in manual mode.
Interior Design and Features
The interior of the CLA 35 AMG is a sight to behold. The car features sporty front seats, AMG-specific digital instrument dials, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with aluminium paddles. The interior design combines the luxury of a Mercedes-Benz with the sportiness of an AMG, creating a unique and appealing environment.
The infotainment system of the CLA 35 AMG is equally impressive. A 10.3-inch screen displays your information and can be controlled either by voice, touch, buttons on the steering wheel or using a touchpad. The system is intuitive to use as this is one of the older Mercedes OS which we’ve seen on previous model lines.
Practicality
Practicality is often a compromise in performance cars, and this is where the CLA 35 AMG manages to offer some extra space and useability over the likes of an SL. The car offers ample space in the front for two adults, and while rear headroom is reduced due to the car’s coupe design, legroom is actually better than it is in the front.
The boot capacity of the CLA 35 AMG is a respectable 460 litres, and the rear seats can be split in a 40/20/40 configuration for added flexibility. For those needing more space, the estate version of the CLA 35 AMG, based on the CLA Shooting Brake, provides more headroom and a larger boot.
Buying and Owning
The CLA 35 AMG is priced towards the higher end of the compact performance car market. The car comes well-equipped as standard, with features such as 19-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, two-zone climate control, and keyless start.
Despite its high initial cost, the CLA 35 AMG offers good value over the long term. The car’s CO2 emissions are slightly higher than its competitors, but its fuel economy is reasonable for a performance car. The CLA 35 AMG also achieved a five-star rating in the 2019 Euro NCAP safety tests, and it comes with a range of standard safety features.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 35 AMG is a compelling option for those seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. While it may not offer the most thrilling driving experience, its excellent performance, high-quality interior, and exterior design make it a strong contender in the luxury car market.
Conclusion
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 35 AMG strikes a fine balance between performance, luxury, and practicality. While it may not be the most exhilarating car to drive, it offers robust performance and a luxurious interior that stacks up to its competitors.
It’s a car that is all about the journey and you don’t need to break the limits to enjoy it. Whether you’re cruising on the motorway or navigating winding country roads, the CLA 35 AMG ensures that every journey is a memorable one.
Specifications
- Engine: 1,991cc, four-cylinder petrol, turbocharged
- Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch, all-wheel drive
- Power (hp): 306@5,800-6,100rpm
- Torque(lb ft): 295@3,000-4,000rpm
- 0-100 km/h: 4.9 seconds
- Top speed: 250 km/h
- Weight: 1,680kg (Mercedes Benz kerbweight)
- Efficiency: 7 L/100 km
- CO2: 192g/km
- Price: Currently for sale at Ballsbridge Motors at €89,950
Final Thoughts
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 35 AMG is a car that combines performance, luxury, and practicality in a unique and appealing package. Its powerful engine, high-quality interior, and reasonably practical design (over a hot hatch) make it a strong contender in the performance car market. Whether you’re an enthusiast seeking a thrilling driving experience or a family buyer looking for a car that offers performance and everyday usability, the CLA 35 AMG is worth considering.
