2023 Mercedes CLA: Prices, specs and release date
- Facelift for Mercedes CLA and CLA Shooting Brake models, and Mercedes-AMG versions
- Subtle visual changes to front end and rear diffuser, with tweaked headlights
- All petrol engines now mild-hybrid assisted, charging speed and range increased for plug-in hybrid
- Infotainment upgrade with Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto
- On sale later in 2023, prices to be confirmed
As well as minor tweaks to the front end of all models – including the performance Mercedes-AMG versions – there are some under-the-skin updates too. The already-impressive MBUX infotainment system has been upgraded to the latest version, and all petrol engines now have mild-hybrid assistance. Numerous minor tweaks and upgrades throughout the range complete the facelift.
2023 Mercedes CLA prices and release date
No release date has been announced, but we can expect the revised Mercedes CLAs to go on sale later in 2023. Similarly, no pricing details have yet been revealed, but a small rise in purchase price is likely given the upgrades. Right now, the range starts at £35,220, which is a premium over rival cars like the Audi A3 Saloon and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe.
2023 Mercedes CLA styling, interior and technology
The visual changes to the 2023 Mercedes CLA are minor, with tweaks rather than a full overhaul. They’re most obvious at the front, with different LED designs within the headlights, and more flared, aggressive front bumpers under a new grille. At the back, the rear diffuser element has been modified, too.
Two new paint colours have been added – Hyper Blue and Spectral Blue – and there are three new optional alloy wheel designs, in sizes up to 19 inches (17-inch wheels are standard).
Inside, the MBUX infotainment system has been upgraded to the latest generation, which includes some new features, including Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto. Mercedes has added an extra USB-C port with increased charging capacity to keep mobile devices topped up, and all the USB ports are now illuminated so you don’t have to scrabble for them in the dark. The “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant has also been given an upgrade, with extra dialogue and learning capabilities.
Those that opt for the Burmester sound system upgrade will now find it has Dolby Atmos for extra audiophile appeal.
A few trim elements have been changed with new options in carbon-effect, wood and microfibre finishes, and for the first time you can spec your CLA with a heated steering wheel. The steering wheel is now the Mercedes-AMG Performance model across all models – previously, it was only available on higher-spec CLAs.
There are extra safety systems available too, with the Driver Assistance Package now sporting an upgraded Lane Keeping Assist system, and more options in the Parking Package, which uses a 360-degree camera and 3D images to help those that find parking a challenge.
2023 Mercedes CLA engines, performance and fuel economy
All petrol models of CLA now feature mild-hybrid tech. This 48V system is designed to improve fuel consumption, and adds a 14PS on start up for a bit of extra vim.
The plug-in hybrid CLA 250 e model now uses the latest generation of tech from Mercedes, which increases the electric-only range and means faster charging, too. Official range figures haven’t been confirmed, but Mercedes estimates up to 50 miles on battery power alone in the CLA Coupe, up from 40 in the current model.
Petrol engine choices are now the CLA 180 with 136PS, the 163PS CLA 200, the coupe-only, four-wheel-drive CLA 220 4MATIC with 190PS and the CLA 250 4MATIC, which makes 224PS.
Diesel options are the CLA 180 d (116PS), the CLA 200 d (150PS) and the CLA 220 d (190PS).
There are also high-performance AMG models to choose from, noth powered by turbocharged 2.0-litre,four-cylinder engines. The CLA 35 produces 306PS, while the CLA 45 S makes 421PS. Both have four-wheel drive.
Official fuel economy figures have yet to be certified.
New Cars Coming Soon
Before you step into a showroom, read our in-depth guide to all the new cars coming in the next 12 months and beyond – some are well worth the wait.
Is the new Mercedes CLA fun to drive?
As most of the changes to the 2023 Mercedes CLA are minor or cosmetic, we can be fairly sure that the driving experience will be much like the current model. That means it’s comfortable and gives you a secure feel behind the wheel, but it’s not overly sharp in terms of handling, which means ‘fun’ is probably a strong term. That changes in the AMG performance models, however, which have lots of power and tighter, more agile handling.
How fast is the new Mercedes CLA?
Performance in the CLA range varies from a leisurely 0-62mph time of 10.1 seconds in the CLA 180 d Shooting Brake, down to a more exhilarating 6.4 seconds for the CLA 250 4MATIC Coupe. The AMG models give you lots of power and noise, with 0-62mph times of 4.9 seconds for the CLA 35 and 4.1 seconds for the CLA 45 S.
What size is the new Mercedes CLA?
The Mercedes CLA Coupe measures 4,688mm in length and 1,830mm in width, not including the wing mirrors. The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake is exactly the same size. For comparison, the BMW X5 is slightly shorter and narrower at 4,526mm long and 1,800mm wide.
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