The 2017 Mercedes-benz Cla 250 stands out as an entry-level luxury car that doesn’t skimp on features or style. This model year offers a compelling package for those seeking premium amenities and Mercedes-Benz engineering in a more accessible format. Let’s delve into what makes the 2017 CLA 250 a noteworthy option.
Standard Equipment and Technology
Right from the base model, the 2017 CLA 250 is well-equipped. It rides on 17-inch wheels and includes practical features like automatic wipers and a rearview camera. Inside, comfort is prioritized with dual-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power front seats. These seats also boast manual thigh adjustment, memory functions, and four-way driver lumbar support, ensuring a comfortable driving position. The leather-wrapped steering wheel is tilt-and-telescoping, adding to driver customization. The cabin features MBTex simulated-leather upholstery and a versatile 60/40-split folding rear seat for cargo flexibility.
Technologically, the CLA 250 is up-to-date with the Mercedes COMAND interface, Bluetooth connectivity, HD radio, a USB port, a media player interface, an auxiliary audio jack, and a CD player. Safety and convenience are addressed with Mbrace2 emergency communications system as standard.
Optional Packages to Enhance Your CLA 250
For buyers wanting even more luxury and technology, Mercedes-Benz offers several optional packages. The Premium package is a popular choice, adding keyless ignition and entry, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, satellite radio, and a Harman Kardon premium sound system for an upgraded audio experience.
The Interior package elevates the cabin ambiance with leather upholstery, stitched MBTex on the dash and doors, and multicolor ambient lighting, creating a more luxurious feel. For tech enthusiasts, the Multimedia package includes a navigation system, voice controls, and Smartphone Integration, which, when equipped, provides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, also available as a standalone option.
Practicality is further enhanced with the Convenience package, offering a hands-free power trunk and auto-dimming driver-side and interior mirrors. For added safety, the Driver Assistance package includes adaptive cruise control and a lane departure warning system.
Sporty Upgrades: Sport and Night Packages
For a sportier aesthetic and driving dynamics, the CLA 250 offers Sport and Sport Plus packages. The Sport package includes special exterior styling, larger 18-inch AMG wheels, and upgraded brakes. The Sport Package Plus goes further, enhancing performance with a tuned suspension, steering, and exhaust system. The Night package can be added to either Sport package, introducing 18-inch black AMG wheels and gloss black exterior trim elements for a more aggressive look.
Stand-Alone Options for Personalization
Beyond packages, the 2017 CLA 250 offers a range of stand-alone options to further personalize the vehicle. These include a panoramic sunroof, bi-LED headlights for improved visibility, and an adjustable suspension with Comfort and Sport settings to tailor the ride. An automatic parking system, blind-spot monitoring (also in packages), various 18-inch wheel designs, heated front seats, and a Garmin Map Pilot navigation system (a more basic alternative to the Multimedia package’s navigation) are also available individually.
Performance and Engine of the 2017 CLA 250
Under the hood, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for daily driving and spirited acceleration. It is paired with a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive, with 4Matic all-wheel drive available as an option for enhanced traction and all-weather capability.
In performance testing, the CLA 250 achieves a 0-60 mph sprint in a respectable 6.4 seconds, suitable for an entry-level luxury car. Fuel economy is also a strong point, with EPA estimates of 29 mpg combined (24 city/36 highway) for the front-wheel-drive model, and slightly lower figures for the 4Matic version. Real-world testing has shown fuel economy figures very close to these EPA estimates.
The High-Performance AMG CLA 45
For those seeking significantly more performance, the AMG CLA 45 variant is available. It boasts a more powerful, hand-built turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 375 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. It features a specialized AMG-tuned transmission, sport-tuned all-wheel drive, and comprehensively upgraded mechanical components for superior handling and driving dynamics. Despite its high performance, the AMG CLA 45 still achieves a respectable EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg combined (23 city/30 highway). Options for the CLA 45 largely mirror those of the CLA 250, with exclusive AMG-specific packages like the AMG Dynamic Plus package for further performance enhancements.
Conclusion
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 provides a well-rounded entry into the luxury car market. With a generous list of standard features, a wide array of optional packages and stand-alone options, and a fuel-efficient yet capable engine, the CLA 250 offers a blend of luxury, technology, and performance. Whether you prioritize comfort, technology, or sporty driving dynamics, the 2017 CLA 250 can be configured to meet a variety of needs and preferences, making it a strong contender in its class.
