The Mercedes-Benz CLA Class continued to captivate the automotive world in 2018, offering a striking four-door coupe design with enhanced features and exclusive special editions. As part of Mercedes-Benz’s esteemed compact car range, alongside the GLA, the 2018 CLA Class delivered a compelling blend of performance and value. Available in both front-wheel drive and optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, this model catered to diverse driving preferences. At the apex of the lineup, the Mercedes-AMG CLA45 stood out with its handcrafted AMG 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine, unleashing 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, maintaining its segment leadership with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 4.1 seconds.
Building on the subtle yet impactful design refinements from 2017, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class showcased updated headlights, bumpers, trim, and tailpipes, further enhancing its distinctive aesthetics. The interior also received notable upgrades, including an improved COMAND infotainment screen, fresh interior finishes, and the inclusion of a standard rearview camera, elevating the in-cabin experience.
2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class Special Editions: A Touch of Exclusivity
For the 2018 model year, Mercedes-Benz introduced two captivating special-edition packages, adding an extra layer of allure to the CLA range.
The Ice Edition: Limited to CLA250 Models
Exclusively available for the CLA250, the sought-after Ice Edition was limited to a mere 400 units, making it a truly special offering. This edition was distinguished by:
- Exterior Paint Options: Cirrus White or Polar White paint, providing a crisp and clean aesthetic.
- Matte White Foil Stripes: Unique Matte White foil stripes that added a sporty and distinctive visual element.
- AMG Line Exterior Body Panels: Incorporating AMG Line exterior body panels for a more aggressive and dynamic stance.
- Night Package: Featuring the Night Package, adding darkened exterior accents for a bolder look.
- LED High-Performance Headlamps: Equipped with LED High-Performance headlamps for enhanced visibility and a modern lighting signature.
- Premium Package: Including the Premium Package, adding a suite of comfort and convenience features.
- Panorama Roof: Featuring a Panorama Roof, bringing in more natural light and enhancing the sense of spaciousness.
- 18″ AMG Wheels: Riding on 18″ AMG wheels with black accents, complementing the overall design theme.
AMG Performance Studio Package: For the AMG CLA45
Reserved exclusively for the high-performance AMG CLA45, the AMG Performance Studio Package delivered an even more striking and individualized appearance. Key highlights of this package included:
- Exterior Paint Choices: Customers could choose between Night Black or Cosmos Black exterior paint.
- Matte Graphite Grey AMG Stripes: Contrasting Matte Graphite Grey AMG stripes across the hood, roof, and trunk lid, extending to above the side sills, creating a racing-inspired aesthetic.
- Yellow Accents: Eye-catching Yellow accents on the front bumper, exterior mirrors, diffuser, and side sill inserts, injecting a vibrant and sporty flair.
- 19″ AMG Cross-Spoke Wheels: Equipped with 19″ AMG Cross-Spoke Wheels in Black with a Yellow flange, further enhancing the visual impact and performance-oriented design.
- AMG Performance Seats: Featuring AMG Performance Seats, providing enhanced lateral support and a sporty driving position.
Enhanced Convenience and Technology in the 2018 CLA Class
Beyond the special editions, the 2018 CLA Class range also benefited from feature enhancements aimed at improving convenience and connectivity.
HANDS-FREE ACCESS
The HANDS-FREE ACCESS feature was a notable addition, simplifying trunk access. Integrated within the Convenience Package, this system allowed for contactless trunk lid or liftgate opening through a simple foot motion near the rear bumper, proving invaluable when hands are full.
Smartphone Integration Package
The optional Smartphone Integration Package brought seamless connectivity to the 2018 CLA Class. Supporting both Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto, this package enabled voice-operated control of iPhones® and Android smartphones. Select smartphone functions could be safely accessed and controlled via the vehicle’s controls while driving.
2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class Model Overview
For a detailed look at the specifications of the different 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class models, refer to the table below:
| CLA250 / CLA250 4MATIC | AMG CLA45 | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of cylinders / arrangement | 4/inline | 4/inline |
| Displacement (cc) | 1,991 | 1,991 |
| Rated output (hp) | 208 @ 5,500 rpm | 375 @ 6,000 rpm |
| Rated torque (lb-ft) | 258 @ 1,200-4,000 rpm | 350 @ 2,250-5,000 rpm |
| Acceleration 0-60mph (sec) | 6.9 / 6.8 | 4.1 |
| Top speed (mph)* | 130 mph | 155 mph |
*electronically limited
In conclusion, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class continued to impress with its striking design, enhanced features, and exclusive special editions like the Ice Edition and AMG Performance Studio Package. Whether opting for the refined CLA250 or the high-performance AMG CLA45, the 2018 CLA Class offered a compelling entry into the world of Mercedes-Benz coupes, blending style, technology, and driving dynamics.
