Mercedes-Benz has launched a facelifted version of its entry-level CLA sedan in India and has priced it at Rs 31.40 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai). It is available across three variants, two engine options and four colour schemes. This is the first major update for the sedan since it was launched here in early 2014.
Externally, the updated CLA sedan now gets the avant-garde grille as standard and it has been painted in black with the logo in silver. There are black inserts on the front bumper while the headlamps can be had had as optional full LED units. The rear bumper has got some minor tweaks while the design for the alloy wheels has been revised.
Inside, there is a new 8.0-inch screen displaying the German automaker’s latest COMMAND infotainment system. Also included in the cabin update is a revised instrument cluster, chrome inserts for the dashboard and revised upholstery options. The car also gets a panoramic sunroof as standard, and gets a new blue shade body paint.
The CLA is offered with one petrol and diesel engine. The former is a 2.0-litre unit producing 181bhp/300Nm while the latter is a 2.2-litre unit producing 134bhp/300Nm. Both engines are offered only with a seven-speed DCT.
By the middle of next year, we can expect Mercedes to launch a revised version of the CLA45 AMG. It will sport an AMG body kit and a 2.0-litre petrol engine fettled by the magicians at Affalterbach to produce 381bhp/475Nm. This car makes use of a seven-speed AMG speed shift DCT and 4MATIC AWD system.
Mercedes-Benz also introduced the CLA in a Road Track edition. It is priced at Rs 1.78 lakh over the standard car. It gets white interiors, carbon fibre mirrors, red hub caps on the wheels, and sportier stickers.
The CLA in India takes on the likes of the Audi A3 as well as the BMW 1 Series in the entry-level premium sedan segment. It is more expensive than the A3 as well as the 1 Series but of the three seems to have tasted the most success.
