2021 Mercedes CLA Class Review
Mercedes-Benz has always been a stand-out as far as comfort, class, and style are regarded. That being said, the 2021 CLA is going to leave a slightly bitter taste in many enthusiasts and long time brand favorites mouths. In a word, the CLA is more underwhelming than anything.

It scores so low in the Luxury Small Car class, mostly due to its cramped interior, mediocre infotainment interface, and its not so strong interior. The notion is to create a slimmer price tag, and edge out the competition with a below average base price, they cut a few interior and cabin costs. Rather than the genuine leather and woodworking iconic to Luxury class vehicles, the Mercedes-Benz CLA class favors cheaper materials such as synthetics and hard plastics. A stark departure from the Mercedes-Benz usually Luxury standards.

But it isn’t all bad reviews and doom and gloom for this model. It has a few saving graces that turn it from underwhelming competitor to worthwhile consideration.

Namely, the superb for class fuel economy. At a staggering early return estimate of 23 mpg in the city and 30-37 mpg on the highway, the fuel economy alone for this entry lends it more then a little slack.

A big compliment to the excellent fuel economy, is the quick and polished four cylinder engine system. The engine delivers a strong and brisk power, the transmission is a smooth piece of art, and the handling is athletic, and agile enough to please even the most ardent driving purist. It’s nimble in the chaos of the city, and composed on the long winding highways. It receives a gold star from many performance focused critics.

It offers a special treat for the consumer interested in storage as well. A much larger than average trunk can accommodate an impressive amount of anything you need. Spicing up the flavor of this Luxury vehicle, and pushing it towards the Crossover class. A strong 13 cubic foot of storage in this vehicle.

As far as affordability, it starts with a base price of $33,100, a lot of that residing in the engine. However it is also the lowest base model price in the Luxury Small Car class, which is a helpful statement, all of its own.

It’s strong, speedy and durable through and through. It received a glowing 4/5 General Reliability score from J.D. Power, which is very good for the class. However no crash or rollover data has been published by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration. So it won’t be noted here.

Overall the Mercedes-Benz CLA is a decent consideration for the class. Not necessarily making a broad or strong claim to the Luxury Small Car throne, but definitely holding its own against many competitors.

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