The Mercedes-Benz CLA debuted in 2014 as a new entry-level model below the C-Class in the German automaker’s lineup. Looking very much like a scaled-down version of the larger E-Class-based CLS of the time, the CLA made waves with its “four-door coupe” styling and a Canadian starting price of less than $35,000.
Unlike traditional Mercedes-Benz sedans, the CLA-Class is based on a front-wheel-drive chassis. But that doesn’t mean it's not a true Benz. In fact, the 2014 CLA offered about as much room inside as the contemporary C-Class sedan, and it didn’t look out of place sharing showroom space with its more expensive siblings. High-performance models wore the coveted AMG badge and were fast and grippy through bends.
The second-generation CLA arrived for the 2020 model year, bringing a similar design and ethos. There was a slight shift in emphasis for the third-generation CLA that debuted for the 2027 model year labeled as a sedan rather than a coupe. It was introduced as a pure electric model, but a hybrid version will join the range for the 2028 model year to replace the gas-powered second-generation models that were still on sale in mid-2026.
Our Mercedes-Benz CLA buying guide has full details of the three model generations available, including which are the best and worst versions to buy and how much shoppers can expect to pay for one.
Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Buying Guide: Cost, Reliability, and the Best Years to Buy
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class years are the best?
Several second-generation (2020-present) CLA models with gas engines don’t have reliability ratings, but the 2023’s “Great” score of 83 from J.D. Power suggests it could be one of the best years. First-generation CLA models (2014-2019) earn average reliability scores from J.D. Power.
Which Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class years are the worst?
As is often the case, early teething problems make the initial model years the worst for reliability. CarComplaints.com data shows that CLA 250 models from 2014 have more complaints than any other model year. Although the total number of complaints is relatively low, cited problems include more than one blown engine. Issues steadily decreased over time.
Is a used Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class a good deal?
In Canada, a used Mercedes-Benz CLA is generally more expensive than an equivalent BMW 2 Series or Audi A3, its closest rivals. However, Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 models from the second (and current) generation strike a good balance between luxury features, solid performance, and reasonable pricing. A low-kilometre example shouldn’t be hard to find for less than $50,000, which represents a roughly $13,000 savings over a 2026 model.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Multiple powertrain options
- Fun to drive
- Impressive technology
Cons:
- Cramped back seat (early models)
- Poor value for money
- Some advanced safety features are not standard
Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Generations
Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Third Generation (2027-Present)
Mercedes-Benz launched an all-new CLA-Class for the 2027 model year. It is currently available only as a pure electric model called the CLA-Class with EQ Technology. For now, it remains on sale alongside gas-powered versions of the second-generation model.
The latest CLA is based on an all-new platform and is slightly longer and wider than the previous version. It’s been designed to accommodate electric or gas power from the outset. A hybrid version that combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged gas engine with an electric motor is due to go on sale for the 2028 model year, replacing the second-generation gas models.
The two EV models currently available are the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology and the CLA 350 4Matic with EQ Technology. The CLA 250+ with EQ Technology is powered by a single electric motor that sends 268 horsepower to the rear wheels. Official range estimates were not available as of this writing, but based on the U.S. figures they should land in the 600-kilometre range. The CLA 350 4Matic with EQ Technology uses two electric motors, one for each axle, to provide all-wheel drive (AWD). It makes 349 hp and has an expected range of roughly 500 kilometres.
Due to its 800-volt electrical system, the CLA with EQ Technology can charge very quickly. With the proper charger, it’s possible to add more than 320 kilometres of range in about 10 minutes. Because it uses a North American Charging Standard (NACS) charging port, the CLA EV can be charged at many Tesla charging stations.
Despite the all-new platform and powertrain lineup, the new CLA has a similar look to the second-generation model. It has a sleeker shape and flush door handles to reduce aerodynamic drag and improve battery range. It also features the German automaker’s latest styling flourishes, which means there are three-pointed stars in the grille, the lighting clusters, and pretty much anywhere else they’ll fit, along with illuminated exterior elements such as the large grille emblem.
The new CLA uses the latest and greatest MB.OS operating system that includes a voice assistant with access to artificial intelligence tech. The dashboard consists of a sleek panel that spans the width of the car and incorporates a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14-inch central display as standard. A third passenger-side 14-inch screen is available as part of the MBUX Superscreen system, creating the impression of one huge infotainment display. A head-up display is also optional. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and an available fancy augmented-reality navigation system is a technological highlight.
Several advanced driver assistance systems are standard in the latest CLA, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitors with exit assist, and emergency braking. Other advanced tech is optional such as traffic sign recognition, steering assist, and lane change assist. Interestingly, rear-seat side-impact airbags are also an optional extra.
For the 2027 model year, the Mercedes-Benz CLA lineup starts in Canada at $53,950 (including a $4,050 destination charge) in CLA 250+ form, which qualifies it for the federal Electric Vehicle Affordability Program (EVAP) rebate if no options are selected. That means passing on the $600 Night Package that adds blacked-out exterior trim and the $2,600 AMG Line kit that adds sportier exterior bits, 18-inch AMG wheels, sport seats, a sports steering wheel, and upgraded interior trim. The two packages are combined in the $4,200 AMG Line Plus with Night Package, which also gets 19-inch wheels, a rear lip spoiler, and red seat belts.
Two optional trim level packages are available. For an extra $3,100, the CLA 250+ Exclusive Trim gains dual-zone climate control, a rear-centre armrest, 64-colour LED ambient cabin lighting, a wireless charger, keyless entry, and MB.Drive Parking Assist. For $4,900, the CLA 250+ Pinnacle Trim benefits from a slew of desirable options such as a head-up display, the MBUX Superscreen, and the MB.Drive Parking Assist surround-view camera system.
The 2026 CLA 350 4Matic carries a starting MSRP of $59,950 and is offered with the same packages and trim levels as its rear-wheel-drive sibling. The third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA went on sale in Canada in the middle of 2026. As yet, it’s too early for any robust data regarding used prices or long-term reliability.
## Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Second Generation (2020-Present)
The second-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class debuted in 2019 for the 2020 model year with sleek new looks, more space, and a more powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 221 hp (an increase of 13 hp over the previous model) for the CLA 250. With the start of this new genearation, 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD) became standard on the CLA-Class in Canada. Buyers looking for even more horsepower could choose the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 and its 302-hp engine or the CLA 45 that produced an impressive 382 hp. The CLA 250 and the AMG 35 used seven-speed automatic transmissions, while the AMG 45 featured an eight-speed unit.
Mercedes-Benz refers to the second-generation CLA — which is still on sale in 2026 alongside the new CLA EV — as a coupe due to its dramatically sloping roof. While the roofline looks pretty, it results in limited rear-seat headroom, and its 460 litres of cargo space was less than that of the outgoing CLA.
Inside, Mercedes-Benz equipped the 2020 CLA-Class with its contemporary MBUX infotainment system, displayed on a standard 7-inch digital touchscreen that was positioned next to another 7-inch display that served as the CLA’s digital instrument cluster. A larger pair of 10.25-inch digital screens was optional. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard.
Standard safety features for the 2020 CLA-Class included automatic emergency braking, adaptive braking technology with hill-start assist, crosswind assist, and a driver-attention monitor. An optional package added a host of other advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Mercedes-Benz refreshed the CLA-Class lineup for the 2024 model year with new front and rear styling, improved LED headlamps, and a larger standard 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The 2024 CLA 250 and AMG CLA 35 received upgraded powerplants with a 48-volt mild hybrid system that added a 13-hp boost for short periods. A new Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S model debuted with 416 hp, an increase of 34 hp over the previous CLA 45. The MBUX infotainment system was upgraded for 2024, too, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto could be operated wirelessly.
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 starts at $49,050 (including the $4,050 destination charge), while the AMG CLA 45 S tops the range at $80,950. On the used market, CarGurus.ca pricing data suggests a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 can be found for less than $30,000 with reasonable kilometres. The AMG-badged CLA 35 adds several thousand dollars to that sum. The latest version of the gasoline-fueled CLA, which was refreshed for 2024, is a decent value in the $40,000 range. AMG 35 models from 2024 and 2025 can be found for well under $60,000, while the AMG 45 S can run closer to $75,000.
## Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class First Generation (2014-2019)
Mercedes-Benz launched the first CLA-Class model in 2014 to slot below the C-Class, which by that point had outgrown its position as the entry-level sedan in the German automaker’s lineup. Unlike traditional sedans wearing the three-pointed star, the CLA was based on a front-wheel-drive chassis and, despite its four-door layout, was referred to as a coupe. Although it was similar in size to the C-Class, the CLA’s low and plunging roofline made it less practical.
Two versions of the CLA-Class were available in 2014. The entry-level model was the CLA 250, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine sending 208 hp to the front wheels or, when optionally equipped with 4Matic, all four wheels. The other model was the sportier Mercedes-AMG CLA 45, which featured a 355-hp turbocharged engine and standard all-wheel drive. Both were equipped with a seven-speed automatic transmission.
Much of the CLA-Class’s most useful safety equipment was optional and accessed via expensive packages. Adaptive cruise control, a collision prevention assist plus package, blind spot monitors, and lane keep assist were all extra-cost options. Even a rear-view camera was an optional extra.
For 2015, Mercedes-Benz softened the CLA’s standard suspension in response to criticism of the 2014 model’s harsh ride. More features became standard including heated front seats and collision prevention assist. The CLA’s suspension was modified again for 2016, keyless start became standard, and an optional selective damping system became available.
A midcycle refresh for the 2017 model year brought fresh styling to the CLA-Class, and the cabin was upgraded with an 8-inch infotainment screen along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. A rear-view camera and automatic emergency braking became standard in 2017. The AMG 45 model received a power boost to 375 hp, a 20-hp improvement over the 2016 model.
First-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 models from 2014 to 2017 typically cost less than $20,000 on the Canadian used car market according to CarGurus.ca pricing data. It’s not difficult to find AMG-badged CLA 45 models in the $25,000 range, though cars with particularly low kilometres can add several thousand dollars to that price.
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