Race spec models are not a new addition to the Mercedes-Benz line-up; from the F1 car to the SLS AMG GT3, all making their rounds of the various race tracks around the world. Mercedes-Benz has decided to induct a new member to the line-up with a CLA45 AMG based concept GT spec car along with a pseudo-performance version called the CLA250 Sport.
Both cars are based on the Standard CLA-Class but, in terms of ruthless aggression, one is positioned above the CLA45 AMG and the other below. Bar the shell and the basic underpinnings, the concept gets complete makeover including as a competition-spec aero kit, rolling stock, carbon-fibre body panels and stripped-out interior.
The CLA Sport can be immediately distinguished from its insane sibling with its black diamond grill and a new set of 18-inch alloy wheels. It gets direct steering and the Light and Sight package as standard along with sports exhausts, but keeps a number of comfort amenities to keep the car more rational.
We know that the GT spec car will get the 2.0-litre AMG engine at an improved state of tune compared to the standard CLA45 AMG, but there is no information yet whether the CLA Sport will get the AMG sourced engine or one of the two standard CLA engines; the 1.6-litre petrol or the 2.2-litre diesel, both found on the A-Class as well.
Both these cars will debut at this year’s Frankfurt Auto Show, and the CLA Sport has already found its place on the CLA line-up, but Mercedes is silent about where the GT spec car will be put to do its business. Since the CLA is destined for Indian shores in the first quarter of next year, the Sport variant will be the one to look out for as it will not blow as big a hole in your pocket as the AMG spec CLA will; for us value-for-money nut heads, that is a good thing.
