The 2017 CLA Class Mercedes-Benz stands out as an entry-level luxury vehicle that doesn’t compromise on features or performance. This model year offers a compelling blend of style, technology, and driving dynamics, making it an attractive option for those seeking a premium experience in a compact package. Let’s delve into the details of what the 2017 CLA Class offers, focusing on its standard equipment, available packages, and performance specifications.
Standard Equipment on the 2017 CLA 250
The CLA 250, the base model of the 2017 CLA Class, is generously equipped right from the start. Mercedes-Benz has ensured that even the standard version feels luxurious and well-appointed. Key standard features include:
- Wheels: 17-inch wheels provide a stylish and comfortable ride.
- Rearview Camera: Enhances safety and convenience when parking and reversing.
- Automatic Wipers: Rain-sensing wipers automatically adjust speed based on rainfall intensity.
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Allows personalized temperature settings for the driver and passenger.
- Power Front Seats: Eight-way power-adjustable front seats with manual thigh adjustment ensure optimal comfort.
- Memory Functions and Lumbar Support: Driver’s seat includes memory settings and four-way lumbar adjustment for enhanced driving posture.
- Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel: Tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel adds a touch of luxury and adjustability.
- MBTex Upholstery: High-quality MBTex simulated-leather upholstery offers durability and a premium feel.
- 60/40-Split Folding Rear Seat: Provides versatility for cargo and passenger needs.
- Mbrace2 Emergency Communications: Offers safety and security features, including emergency assistance.
- Mercedes COMAND Tech Interface: Manages infotainment and vehicle settings with intuitive controls.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Enables hands-free calling and audio streaming.
- HD Radio: Provides high-definition radio reception.
- USB Port, Media Player Interface, and Auxiliary Audio Jack: Offers multiple options for connecting and playing media devices.
- CD Player: For those who still enjoy physical media.
This comprehensive list of standard features ensures that the 2017 CLA 250 provides a luxurious and technologically advanced experience right from the base model.
Optional Packages to Elevate Your 2017 CLA Class
For buyers looking to further enhance their 2017 CLA Class, Mercedes-Benz offers a range of optional packages. These packages bundle popular features, providing convenience and value.
Premium Package
The Premium package is a popular choice, adding several desirable features:
- Keyless Ignition and Entry: Offers push-button start and keyless access for added convenience.
- Heated Front Seats: Provides warmth and comfort in colder climates.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring System: Enhances safety by alerting the driver to vehicles in blind spots.
- Satellite Radio: Expands audio entertainment options with SiriusXM satellite radio.
- Premium Harman Kardon Sound System: Delivers high-fidelity audio for an immersive listening experience.
Interior Package
For those prioritizing interior luxury and ambiance, the Interior package includes:
- Leather Upholstery: Upgrades the seating surfaces to genuine leather for a more luxurious feel.
- Stitched MBTex on Dash and Doors: Adds stitched MBTex simulated leather to the dashboard and door panels, enhancing the interior aesthetics.
- Multicolor Ambient Lighting: Allows customization of the interior lighting with various colors, creating a personalized atmosphere.
Multimedia Package
Technology enthusiasts will appreciate the Multimedia package, which offers advanced infotainment features:
- Navigation System: Provides turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates.
- Voice Controls: Enables voice commands for navigation, media, and phone functions.
- Smartphone Integration Package: Includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration (also available separately).
Convenience Package
The Convenience package focuses on making daily driving easier and more comfortable:
- Hands-Free Power Trunk: Allows opening the trunk with a foot motion, ideal when hands are full.
- Auto-Dimming Mirrors: Auto-dimming driver-side and interior mirrors reduce glare from headlights at night.
Driver Assistance Package
Safety is paramount, and the Driver Assistance package enhances driving safety with:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Lane Departure Warning System: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane unintentionally.
Sport and Night Packages
For a sportier aesthetic and enhanced driving dynamics, Mercedes-Benz offers the Sport and Night packages:
- Sport Package:
- Special exterior styling for a more aggressive look.
- 18-inch AMG wheels for enhanced style and handling.
- Upgraded brakes for improved stopping power.
- Sport Package Plus: Builds on the Sport Package with:
- Performance-tuned suspension for sportier handling.
- Performance-tuned steering for more direct feedback.
- Performance-tuned exhaust for a more aggressive sound.
- Night Package: Adds to the Sport packages:
- 18-inch black AMG wheels for a distinctive look.
- Gloss black exterior trim pieces for a sleek, dark appearance.
Stand-Alone Options for Personalized Customization
Beyond packages, the 2017 CLA Class offers a variety of stand-alone options for further customization:
- Panoramic Sunroof: Provides an expansive view and open-air feeling.
- Bi-LED Headlights: Offers brighter and more energy-efficient headlights.
- Adjustable Suspension: Allows switching between Comfort and Sport settings for varied driving experiences.
- Automatic Parking System: Assists with parking maneuvers.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring (Stand-alone): Available as a stand-alone option in addition to the package.
- Various 18-inch Wheel Designs: Offers a selection of 18-inch wheel styles to personalize the vehicle’s appearance.
- Heated Front Seats (Stand-alone): Available as a stand-alone option in addition to the package.
- Garmin Map Pilot Navigation System: A more affordable navigation option compared to the Multimedia package’s system, though less advanced.
The High-Performance 2017 AMG CLA 45
For driving enthusiasts, the AMG CLA 45 represents the pinnacle of performance within the 2017 CLA Class lineup. It boasts significant upgrades over the CLA 250:
- More Powerful Engine: A significantly more potent engine delivering exhilarating performance.
- Different Transmission: A specialized transmission tuned for performance driving.
- All-Wheel Drive (Standard): 4Matic all-wheel drive provides enhanced traction and handling.
- Sport-Tuned Mechanics: Sport-tuned steering, suspension, and brakes for superior driving dynamics.
- Unique Styling: Distinctive AMG styling cues set it apart visually.
- LED Headlights (Standard): Equipped with bi-LED headlights as standard.
- Sport Seats: Sport seats offer enhanced support during spirited driving.
- Special Upholstery: Unique upholstery combining MBTex simulated leather and Dinamica simulated suede.
Most of the CLA 250’s options are also available on the AMG CLA 45, allowing for further customization. Additionally, AMG-specific options include:
- AMG Dynamic Plus Package:
- Adaptive suspension tailored for AMG performance.
- Limited-slip differential for enhanced cornering grip.
- Race mode added to the drive settings for track-focused performance.
- AMG Dinamica Interior Package:
- Adds Dinamica simulated-suede trim to the dash and steering wheel rim for a sporty interior ambiance.
Engine and Performance of the 2017 CLA Class
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class offers two distinct engine options, catering to different performance preferences.
2017 CLA 250 Engine and Performance
The CLA 250 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with 4Matic all-wheel drive available as an option.
Performance figures for the CLA 250 are respectable for an entry-level luxury car. In Edmunds testing, a CLA 250 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds.
Fuel economy is also a strong point for the CLA 250. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 29 mpg combined (24 city/36 highway) for the front-wheel-drive model, with a slight decrease for the all-wheel-drive version. Edmunds’ long-term testing averaged 28.4 mpg, demonstrating real-world fuel efficiency.
2017 AMG CLA 45 Engine and Performance
The AMG CLA 45 takes performance to a different level with its handcrafted turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 375 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. It features a specialized seven-speed, AMG-tuned transmission and sport-tuned all-wheel drive as standard.
Despite its high performance, the AMG CLA 45 still achieves surprisingly thrifty fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined (23 city/30 highway). However, achieving this fuel economy in real-world driving, especially when utilizing the vehicle’s performance capabilities, may be challenging.
Conclusion: The 2017 CLA Class – A Well-Rounded Luxury Choice
The 2017 CLA Class Mercedes-Benz offers a compelling entry point into the luxury car market. Whether you choose the well-equipped CLA 250 or the high-performance AMG CLA 45, you’re getting a vehicle that blends style, technology, and driving enjoyment. With a wide array of standard features, optional packages, and stand-alone options, the 2017 CLA Class can be tailored to meet a variety of needs and preferences, making it a smart and sophisticated choice for discerning drivers.
