Mercedes-Benz continued to captivate the compact luxury segment with the 2018 CLA, offering a compelling blend of style, performance, and innovation. This four-door coupe, alongside its GLA sibling, presented discerning drivers with a range of options, from efficient front-wheel drive to the assured grip of 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The 2018 model year brought forth exciting special editions and feature enhancements, further solidifying the Mercedes-Benz CLA’s position as a leader in its class.
Building upon the subtle yet impactful design refinements introduced in 2017—including updated headlights, bumpers, trim, and tailpipes—the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA boasted an even more refined aesthetic. Inside, drivers benefited from an improved COMAND infotainment screen, fresh interior finishes, and the added convenience of a standard rearview camera. These updates ensured the CLA remained at the forefront of in-car technology and luxury.
Unveiling the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA Special Editions
For the 2018 model year, Mercedes-Benz introduced two exclusive special edition packages designed to amplify the CLA’s distinctive appeal: the Ice Edition for the CLA250 and the AMG Performance Studio Package for the AMG CLA45.
Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 Ice Edition: A Study in White
Limited to a mere 400 units, the Ice Edition of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 was crafted for those seeking understated exclusivity. This edition made a striking statement with its choice of Cirrus White or Polar White paint, accentuated by distinctive Matte White foil stripes. The inclusion of AMG Line Exterior body panels and the Night Package further enhanced its sporty and sophisticated appearance. Functionality and style were seamlessly integrated with LED High-Performance headlamps, a panoramic sunroof for an airy cabin feel, and the Premium Package for enhanced comfort and convenience features. Completing the Ice Edition’s unique visual signature were 18-inch AMG wheels with eye-catching black accents, ensuring it stood out from the crowd.
Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 AMG Performance Studio Package: Bold and Unmistakable
At the high-performance end of the spectrum, the 2018 AMG CLA 45 received the exclusive AMG Performance Studio Package. This package amplified the already aggressive character of the AMG CLA 45 with bold visual enhancements. Exterior paint options were Night Black or Cosmos Black, providing a dramatic backdrop for the Matte Graphite Grey AMG racing stripes that stretched across the hood, roof, and trunk lid, as well as above the side sills. Yellow accents injected vibrant energy, highlighting the front bumper, exterior mirrors, diffuser, and side sill inserts. Aggressive 19-inch AMG cross-spoke wheels in black with a yellow flange and performance seats completed this package, ensuring the AMG Performance Studio Package equipped 2018 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 made an unforgettable impression.
Enhanced Convenience and Connectivity for the 2018 CLA
Beyond the special editions, the entire 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA range benefited from advancements in convenience and connectivity. The HANDS-FREE ACCESS feature, now included within the Convenience Package, simplified trunk access. A simple foot motion near the rear bumper enabled effortless opening of the trunk lid or liftgate, ideal for moments when hands are full.
Furthermore, the optional Smartphone Integration Package seamlessly integrated modern mobile technology. Supporting both Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto, this package allowed for voice-operated control of iPhones® and Android smartphones. Selected smartphone functions could be safely accessed and controlled via the vehicle’s controls, promoting safer and more connected driving.
2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA Model Overview: Performance Specifications
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA lineup offered two distinct performance tiers, catering to different driving preferences:
| CLA250 / CLA250 4MATIC | AMG CLA45 | |
|---|---|---|
| Cylinders / Arrangement | 4/inline | 4/inline |
| Displacement (cc) | 1,991 | 1,991 |
| Rated Output (hp) | 208 @ 5,500 rpm | 375 @ 6,000 |
| 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 compelling choice in the compact luxury segment. With its refreshed styling, enhanced features, and the introduction of exclusive special editions like the Ice Edition and AMG Performance Studio Package, the 2018 CLA offered a remarkable combination of style, performance, and technology, further cementing its appeal to a wide range of drivers.
