The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 continues to democratize luxury, making the dream of owning a stylish, new Mercedes sedan a reality for a wider range of buyers. Mercedes-Benz initially launched the CLA model a few years prior, emphasizing an attractive starting MSRP that was comfortably under $30,000. While slight price adjustments have occurred since its initial release, the 2016 CLA 250 still holds its position as a compelling option within the compact luxury car segment, offering a lower entry point compared to models like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Despite its more accessible price tag, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 doesn’t compromise on delivering an authentic luxury sedan experience. During a year-long test of the CLA 250 model, several aspects stood out positively. The cabin environment remained impressively quiet, contributing to a refined driving experience. The car exhibited well-balanced performance dynamics, offering a blend of responsiveness and comfort suitable for daily driving. Fuel economy was also noteworthy, proving to be efficient for its class. Furthermore, the user-friendly ergonomics of the CLA 250 made interacting with the car’s controls intuitive and straightforward.
For those seeking heightened performance, the lineup also includes the exhilarating AMG CLA 45. This performance variant boasts a significant power upgrade, generating 375 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Equipped with standard all-wheel drive and optimized transmission ratios, the AMG CLA 45 delivers breathtaking acceleration, reaching 60 mph from a standstill in a mere 4.1 seconds, according to manufacturer specifications.
However, prospective buyers should be aware of certain trade-offs associated with the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250’s design and dimensions. While the coupe-like silhouette undeniably contributes to its visual appeal, the sloping roofline impacts rear passenger headroom considerably. The compact overall size of the CLA also translates to limitations in rear legroom. Therefore, individuals who frequently transport adult passengers in the back seat may find competitors in this segment offering slightly more practicality in terms of rear passenger space.
Ride quality is another factor to consider. Mercedes-Benz addressed initial concerns regarding ride comfort by implementing a more compliant suspension setup for the 2015 CLA 250 and making the sport suspension an optional feature. However, evaluations suggest that the run-flat tires, often paired with the comfort-tuned suspension, are more likely the source of perceived harshness when encountering road imperfections. Interestingly, a CLA 250 configured with the sport suspension and conventional tires may offer improvements in both handling agility and ride comfort. This configuration also eliminates the potential for costly run-flat tire replacements. Adding to the available chassis technology for 2016, optional adaptive/adjustable suspension dampers became available for both the CLA 250 and the higher-performance CLA 45 AMG models, allowing drivers to fine-tune the ride characteristics.
While the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 presents an attractive base price, the overall cost can escalate as buyers select options typically expected in a luxury vehicle. Features like keyless entry and ignition, a rearview camera, or heated seats, when added, contribute to a noticeable price increase. For those drawn to the AMG model’s performance capabilities, be prepared for a significantly higher price point, potentially exceeding $50,000.
When exploring alternatives within the compact luxury sedan market, the well-regarded 2016 Audi A3 emerges as a strong contender and a top recommendation in its class. The Audi A3, particularly with its smaller 1.8-liter engine, can be slightly more affordable than a base CLA 250. Opting for the comparable 2.0-liter engine in the Audi A3 positions its price slightly above the CLA 250, but it compensates by including all-wheel drive as standard equipment.
For buyers prioritizing rear passenger space, alternatives such as the surprisingly spacious Volkswagen GTI or higher trim levels of various non-luxury midsize sedans could be considered. Conversely, for those willing to explore larger luxury sedans with fewer features, entry-level versions of models like the Acura TLX or BMW 320i are options. Performance-oriented buyers considering the AMG CLA 45 should also evaluate competitors like the 2016 Audi S3 and the 2016 BMW M235i. The Audi S3 mirrors the A3’s advantages while offering a more refined and luxurious cabin. The BMW M235i, a two-door model, excels in handling dynamics, often considered best-in-class. Ultimately, the optimal choice depends on individual preferences and priorities. However, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 uniquely delivers the combination of distinctive style and the prestigious image associated with the iconic Mercedes-Benz tri-star emblem.
