Mercedes-Benz continued to solidify its presence in the compact car segment with the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA, a striking four-door coupe that effortlessly blends style and performance. Building on the CLA’s established appeal, the 2018 model year introduced enticing special editions and further refinements, reinforcing its position as a leader in its class. Available in both front-wheel drive and the sure-footed 4MATIC all-wheel drive configurations, the 2018 CLA catered to a broad spectrum of drivers seeking a premium driving experience in a smaller package. At the apex of the lineup, the Mercedes-AMG CLA45 stood as a testament to high-performance engineering, boasting handcrafted power and exhilarating dynamics.
Building upon the aesthetic enhancements introduced in 2017, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA maintained its refreshed and contemporary design. The previous model year saw subtle yet impactful changes to the CLA’s visual signature, including redesigned headlights, bumpers, and trim elements, along with updated tailpipes. These exterior tweaks sharpened the CLA’s already distinctive coupe silhouette, giving it an even more modern and aggressive stance on the road. Inside the cabin, Mercedes-Benz elevated the in-car experience with an enhanced COMAND infotainment screen, providing crisper visuals and improved responsiveness. New interior trim options added a further layer of personalization, allowing drivers to tailor the CLA’s cabin to their individual tastes. Moreover, a standard rearview camera became a welcome addition, increasing safety and convenience during everyday driving maneuvers.
For the 2018 model year, Mercedes-Benz amplified the CLA’s allure with the introduction of two exclusive special edition packages. The first, the Ice Edition, was crafted exclusively for the CLA250 model and limited to a mere 400 units, making it a truly rare and desirable offering. The Ice Edition package presented a striking visual theme, pairing either Cirrus White or Polar White exterior paint with distinctive Matte White foil stripes that ran along the vehicle’s profile. Adding to its sporty character, the Ice Edition incorporated AMG Line Exterior body panels, the Night Package with darkened exterior accents, and high-performance LED headlamps for enhanced visibility and a modern lighting signature. Luxury and convenience features were also generously included, with the Premium Package and a panoramic sunroof flooding the cabin with natural light. Completing the Ice Edition’s unique aesthetic were 18-inch AMG wheels finished with black accents, further emphasizing its sporty and exclusive nature.
On the performance front, the AMG Performance Studio Package was designed exclusively for the high-performance Mercedes-AMG CLA45. This package allowed owners to further amplify the already aggressive character of the AMG CLA45. Exterior paint choices were offered in either Night Black or Cosmos Black, providing a dramatic backdrop for the package’s distinctive styling elements. Matte Graphite Grey AMG racing stripes were applied across the hood, roof, and trunk lid, as well as above the side sills, immediately signaling the vehicle’s sporting intent. Bright Yellow accents provided a vibrant contrast, highlighting the front bumper, exterior mirrors, diffuser, and side sill inserts, creating a visually arresting and unmistakable presence. The AMG Performance Studio Package also included 19-inch AMG cross-spoke wheels finished in black with a yellow flange, and inside, AMG performance seats provided enhanced lateral support and a sporty driving position, completing this eye-catching and dynamic package.
Beyond the special editions, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA model line benefited from enhanced convenience features. The HANDS-FREE ACCESS feature, available as part of the Convenience Package, simplified loading and unloading cargo. This innovative system allowed for contactless opening of the trunk lid or liftgate with a simple foot motion near the rear bumper, proving invaluable when hands are full. Furthermore, the Smartphone Integration Package provided seamless connectivity, enabling voice-operated control of compatible iPhones® and Android smartphones through Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto respectively. This integration allowed drivers to safely access selected smartphone functions via the vehicle’s controls, promoting safer and more connected driving experience.
To recap the performance metrics across the range, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA lineup offered compelling powertrains to match its striking aesthetics:
| CLA250 / CLA250 4MATIC | AMG CLA45 | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of cylinders / arrangement | 4/inline | 4/inline |
| Displacement (cc) | 1,991 | 1,991 |
| Rated output (hp) | 208 @ 5,500 rpm | 375 @ 6,000 rpm |
| Rated torque (lb-ft) | 258 @ 1,200-4,000 rpm | 350 @ 2,250-5,000 rpm |
| Acceleration 0-60mph (sec) | 6.9 / 6.8 | 4.1 |
| Top speed (mph)* | 130 mph | 155 mph |
*electronically limited
In conclusion, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA continued to be a standout model in the compact luxury segment, offering a compelling blend of design, performance, and technology. With refined styling, innovative features, and exclusive special editions like the Ice Edition and AMG Performance Studio Package, the 2018 CLA solidified its appeal for drivers seeking a dynamic and sophisticated four-door coupe. Whether opting for the efficient CLA250 or the high-performance AMG CLA45, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA provided a premium and engaging driving experience.
