The 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class marked a significant entry point into the luxury car market, offering a stylish coupe-like sedan with premium features at a more accessible price point. For those considering a pre-owned luxury vehicle, understanding the standard and optional equipment of the 2015 CLA is crucial. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of what this model offered, helping you to make an informed decision.
Comfort and Convenience Features of the 2015 CLA
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA was designed to provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience, incorporating a range of standard features across all models – the CLA250, CLA250 4MATIC, and the high-performance CLA45 AMG 4MATIC.
All models came equipped with Dual Zone Climate Control, allowing both driver and passenger to set their preferred temperatures, ensuring optimal comfort regardless of external conditions. KEYLESS-START added a touch of modern convenience, enabling drivers to start the vehicle with the push of a button, without needing to insert the key. For those who desired integrated navigation, Pre-Wiring for Garmin Navigation was standard, making the future installation of the system simpler.
Connectivity was a key focus, with a Media Interface, USB Port, Bluetooth Audio Streaming, and HD Radio all included as standard. These features provided a wide array of entertainment and connectivity options, catering to the needs of modern drivers. Bluetooth Interface for Hands-Free Phone Use further enhanced convenience and safety, allowing for calls to be made and received without taking hands off the wheel.
The interior was centered around a user-friendly interface, featuring a Central Controller with a 7” High-Mounted Display. This screen served as the hub for infotainment and vehicle settings. The driver benefited from a Multifunction 3-spoke Leather Steering Wheel, providing tactile control over various vehicle functions, and a 4.5” Color Instrument Cluster Display which presented important driving information clearly and concisely.
Mercedes-Benz’s connected car services, mbrace2, were also standard, offering a suite of features focused on safety, security, and convenience. Practicality was addressed with Double Cupholders, Tilt & Telescoping Steering Column for finding the perfect driving position, and Sun visors with illuminated mirrors. Driving aids included Electronic Cruise Control, Power Windows with Express Up and Down, and Automatic Headlamps with Twilight Sensor & Locator Lighting. A Trip Computer provided essential driving data, while Intermittent Wipers with Rain Sensor automatically adjusted wiper speed based on rainfall. Finally, Split-folding rear seats added versatility, allowing for larger items to be transported when needed.
Performance and Handling of the 2015 CLA Models
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA offered a range of performance options, catering to different driving preferences, while maintaining a focus on refined handling.
All CLA models in 2015 featured ECO Start/Stop, an efficiency-enhancing technology that automatically shuts off the engine when the car is stationary, such as at traffic lights, and restarts it seamlessly when the brake is released. The core of the CLA range was a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder engine with Direct Injection. This engine powered both the CLA250 and CLA250 4MATIC models, producing 208 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque available from a low 1,250 rpm up to 4,000 rpm. This resulted in responsive acceleration and a comfortable driving experience in various conditions. The engine had a Max. engine speed of 6,500 rpm and allowed for a Top Speed of 130 mph, electronically limited for safety and tire longevity. Both the CLA250 and CLA250 4MATIC models were equipped with a 7G-DCT transmission, a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission known for its smooth and quick gear changes, contributing to both efficiency and driving enjoyment.
For those seeking high performance, the CLA45 AMG 4MATIC was the standout model. It also utilized a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder engine with Direct Injection, but AMG’s enhancements boosted the output to an impressive 355 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 332 lb-ft of torque between 2,250 and 5,000 rpm. The higher Max. engine speed of 6,700 rpm and a Top Speed of 155 mph (electronically limited, or 167 mph with the optional P25 Driver’s Package) showcased its performance capabilities. To manage this power, the CLA45 AMG 4MATIC featured an AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-DCT transmission, specifically tuned by AMG for even faster and more dynamic gear shifts, further enhancing the driving experience.
Safety and Security Features in the 2015 CLA
Mercedes-Benz has always prioritized safety, and the 2015 CLA was no exception, offering a comprehensive suite of standard safety and security features across the range.
Peace of mind came standard with a New Vehicle 4 Year/50,000 Mile Warranty and a 24 Hour Roadside Assistance Program, providing support and coverage in case of unexpected issues. The vehicle’s structure itself was designed for safety, featuring a High Strength Steel Reinforced Cabin with Front & Rear Crumple Zones to effectively manage impact forces in the event of a collision. The Supplemental Restraint System with Occupant Sensor optimized airbag deployment based on detected occupants. 3-Point Seat Belts with Pretensioners & Dual-Stage Belt Force Limiters were standard for all seating positions, enhancing occupant protection.
Advanced driver assistance systems were also included, such as COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, which could warn the driver of potential frontal collisions. A comprehensive airbag system comprised Front Dual Stage Airbags, Front Side Airbags, Front Window Airbags, and a Driver and Passenger Knee Airbag. For child safety, the ISOFIX Anchor and Tether System was included for secure child seat installation.
Core braking and stability systems were all standard, including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), working together to maintain control in challenging driving situations. ATTENTION ASSIST Driver Drowsiness Monitor was another notable standard feature, alerting the driver if signs of drowsiness were detected. Security features included an Anti-Theft Alarm with Engine Immobilizer and SmartKey with Panic Button. Finally, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System and ADAPTIVE BRAKE with Hill-Start Assist, Brake Drying and HOLD Function further contributed to safety and ease of driving.
Paint, Upholstery, and Trim Options for the 2015 CLA
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA offered a variety of customization options, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles to reflect their individual style.
For Paint Options, standard no-cost choices included Night Black, Jupiter Red, and Cirrus White. For those seeking metallic finishes, Cosmos Black, Polar Silver, Mountain Grey, Cocoa Brown, and Northern Lights Violet were available for an additional cost. For a truly unique and premium look, designo Magno Polar Silver was offered at a higher price point, providing an exclusive matte finish.
Upholstery Options included Black MB-Tex as the standard, no-cost option. MB-Tex is a durable and leather-like synthetic material. Beige MB-Tex and Ash MB-Tex were also available at no additional cost. For those desiring leather, Black Leather, Brown Leather, and Ash Leather were available, some as part of packages. AMG models offered unique options like Black MB-Tex/DINAMICA, Black “Red-Cut” Leather, Nut Brown Leather, and Ash Grey Leather, some of which were exclusive to the high-performance CLA45 AMG or part of specific packages like the Sport Package Plus or Interior Package.
Trim Options allowed for further interior personalization. Anthracite trim was standard at no cost. Aluminum Trim and wood trims like Black Ash Wood and Burl Walnut Wood were available as upgrades, adding a touch of sophistication or sportiness to the cabin. The CLA45 AMG offered exclusive Carbon Fiber Trim for a high-tech, sporty aesthetic.
Available Packages for the 2015 CLA
To simplify the process of adding popular features, Mercedes-Benz offered several packages for the 2015 CLA, grouping together commonly desired options.
The Premium Package was a popular choice, adding a range of comfort and convenience features including Garage Door Opener, Compass, Auto Dimming Mirrors, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, a harman/kardon Premium Sound system for enhanced audio quality, Heated Front Seats, and KEYLESS GO for keyless entry and start.
For interior enhancements, the Interior Package included Leather Upholstery, MB-Tex on the dash and doors with top-stitching, and Ambient Lighting (12 colors) to personalize the cabin ambiance.
The Multimedia Package focused on technology upgrades, featuring a Rearview Camera, the COMAND system with Navigation, Voice Control, an 8” High Resolution LCD Screen with 3D Map View, In-dash DVD Player, and SiriusXM Traffic & Weather.
Sporty styling could be enhanced with the Sport Package, which added AMG Bodystyling, 18” AMG Twin 5-Spoke Wheels, Larger Brakes with performance front discs and MB logo, and a Diamond Grille with silver pins. The Sport Package Plus took sportiness further with additional features like 18” AMG Wheels with wider tires, Sport Suspension, Red Painted brake calipers, AMG specific front axle/suspension, Linear sports steering, Red stripes, “SPORT” badges, a sportier “S” mode setup and exhaust system, Black MB-Tex/DINAMICA seats with red contrast stitching, a Sport steering wheel, Aluminum trim, Red seatbelts, Black roof liner, and Stainless steel pedals.
For advanced safety and driver assistance, the Driver Assistance Package included Blind Spot Assist, DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control, and Lane Keeping Assist.
Exclusively for the CLA45 AMG, the AMG Driver’s Package enhanced performance with AMG Performance Suspension with Stiffer/Firmer Dampening Characteristics, an Increased Top Speed to 167mph, Red Calipers, and 19” 16-Spoke Alloy Wheels Silver/Black. The AMG Night Styling package added aggressive black exterior accents, including Gloss Black Side Window Frame Trim & Mirror Covers, Gloss Black Rocker Panel Insert, Gloss Black Splitter, Diffuser in Gloss Black, and Conjoined Quad Trapezoid Tailpipes in Black Chrome. Finally, the Exterior Carbon Fiber Package provided a high-performance look with Carbon Fiber Rocker Panel Insert, Carbon Fiber Splitter, Diffuser in Carbon Fiber, and Carbon Fiber Mirror Covers.
Understanding the standard and optional features of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA is essential for anyone considering purchasing this stylish and well-equipped compact luxury car. Whether you prioritize comfort, performance, or sporty aesthetics, the CLA offered a range of configurations to meet diverse needs and preferences.
