2021 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 Test Drive Review: Pint-Sized Powerhouse

Is there any more perfect rival to the Audi RS3 than the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45? The Mercedes-Benz CLA is one of two entry-level sedan models offered in the USA, though Mercedes would prefer you call it a four-door coupe. Though this term is a bit overused at this point, the CLA’s rakish roofline is reminiscent of a two-door coupe. Think of the CLA as a baby version of the CLS-Class with smaller proportions and a much lower price point. The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 variant, then, is a junior CLS 53 AMG. Like the original CLA 45, this new one is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine sending power to all four wheels through a dual-clutch transmission, this time with eight gears.

While Europe gets an S derivative with in excess of 400 horsepower, the standard US variant generates 382 horsepower, making it the most powerful non-hybrid 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine on sale. Even still, the CLA 45 is faster than before with a 0-60 mph time of four seconds dead thanks to a new quick-shifting dual-clutch with launch control. The 2021 CLA 45 loosely competes with the Audi RS3 and BMW M2, though its four-door coupe distinction makes it somewhat of a one-of-one in its segment.

Pros and Cons

• Digital White

• Cosmos Black Metallic

• Iridium Silver Metallic

• Mountain Grey Metallic

• Mojave Silver Metallic

• Denim Blue Metallic

• Patagonia Red Metallic

• designo Mountain Grey Magno (Matte Finish)

• Jupiter Red

• Polar White

• Night Black

• Sun Yellow

As before, the CLA 45 employs a handcrafted 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine now developing 382 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. To extract so much power out of such a small displacement, AMG rotated the M139 engine around by 180 degrees. The turbocharger and exhaust manifold now sit at the back, while the intake is positioned at the front for quicker response. It’s also worth mentioning that the CLA 45 gets a larger twin-scroll turbo from the C63, which delivers 2.1 bar (best-in-class according to Mercedes) of boost pressure. This brutal engine is paired with a quick-shifting eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, while power is channeled to all four corners via the AMG Performance 4Matic AWD system.

So long as the turbo is spooled, the CLA 45 accelerates like a rat scurrying towards a piece of cheese. AMG has tried to eliminate turbo lag here, but it’s ever-present at low revs. Just keep the engine at its sweet spot, and it will return the favor with supercar-level performance. Speaking of keeping the engine in its sweet spot, the CLA 45 features paddle shifters that are genuinely fun to use, and deliver a sweet pop on full-throttle upshifts. There is certainly some fake speaker noise pumped into the cabin, but it enhances the experience without acting as a distraction. It doesn’t hurt that the actual exhaust crackles and pops on the overrun, much like an old-school Japanese tuner car.

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  Engine

  2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas

• 

  Transmission

  8-Speed Automatic

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It’s easy to hop into the “baby” AMG model and expect a slightly disappointing driving experience. After all, the CLA 45 is based on a front-wheel-drive platform and only packs a pint-sized 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Well, surprise surprise, AMG manages to deliver greatness even in its entry-level product. The CLA 45 reminds us of every positive cliche that made the Subaru WRX STI a household name in America. That turbocharged M139 is one of the all-time great four-pot engines, and it’s linked to a razor-sharp dual-clutch transmission.

Though it is not based on a rear-drive platform, the CLA’s 4Matic system is capable of inducing oversteer using its AMG Torque Control System. Two electronically controlled multi-disc clutches split the power left-to-right, allowing the CLA 45 to feel like a rear-biased car. Our test model lacked the AMG Dynamic PLUS Package, which includes a Drift and Race mode, but in Sport + mode the car can still kick out the rear end enough to put a huge grin on the driver’s face. Though the variable steering provides less feedback than some sports cars, it delivers immediate responsiveness that pairs perfectly with the CLA’s diminutive size. This car is truly a pocket rocket that reminds us why a small car can often be more fun than a larger one that boasts more power. This car scoots around corners with tremendous levels of grip, keeping its composure up to eye-popping speeds. On a windy back road, the CLA 45 could easily keep up with today’s fastest supercars, and that is no exaggeration.

We love how AMG makes it easy to customize the drive modes using the steering wheel-mounted AMG Drive Unit. Our favorite combination was Sport + on everything with the suspension on comfort. The CLA 45 is firm no matter which suspension mode it’s in, but comfort is more tolerable while Sport + feels pretty harsh.

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  Fuel Tank Capacity

  13.5 Gallons

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  Fuel Economy

  City/Hwy: 20/29 mpg

* 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class AMG CLA 45 4MATIC

The CLA 45 is strictly a five-seater but like the two-door coupes it seeks to emulate, the back seat accommodations are best left for children and small adults. 33.9 inches of rear legroom feels pretty tight and is less than what’s offered in the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. Worse still, the CLA’s sloping roofline cuts the rear headroom to 35.7 inches, meaning that anyone above 5’8″ will struggle to fit back there.

Up front, head and legroom are far more plentiful, though buyers who value comfort may want to think twice before optioning the AMG Performance Seat Package. We think the sport buckets suit the character of the car while still offering creature comforts like heating and ventilation, though they can start to feel stiff on long trips.

By default, the CLA 45 comes equipped with MB-Tex upholstery in either Neva Grey/Black or in Black with Dinamica and red stitching. Genuine leather is a $1,450 option and colors here include Black, Bahia Brown, Classic Red/Black, and Titanium Grey/Black. The three trim inlays that won’t add anything to your bill include aluminum with linear grain, aluminum with longitudinal grain, and aluminum AMG design with sporty striping on the dashboard. Both Natural Grain Black Linden wood and Natural Grain Brown Walnut wood go for $325 each.

Not all seat and trim options can be combined, though. For instance, Titanium Grey/Black leather isn’t compatible with the Natural Grain Brown Walnut wood inlays. Seatbelts can be had in red or black, while several AMG Performance steering wheels are on offer in finishes like Nappa leather, Nappa leather/Dinamica, or Dinamica on its own. All of the common touchpoints feel premium, though if you poke around too much in the CLA’s cabin, there are cheap plastics to be found. Overall, though, the quality is a big step up from the previous generation.

With the rear seats in their upright position, the CLA 45 offers 11.6 cubic feet of cargo space. That’s a bit more than the 10 cubes in the outgoing Audi RS3, and while not exemplary, is enough space for the Merc to accommodate a few carry-ons or a set of golf clubs. It must be noted that the previous CLA had a bigger trunk, although the opening was narrower. This one opens wide to make loading an easy affair. The rear seats can fold in a 40/20/40-split which means you can expand packing space while still accommodating one or two occupants at the back.

Inside, the CLA 45 boasts reasonable practicality, although nothing to bother a crossover. There is a small center console storage area and rather slim door pockets. Cupholders are fitted both front and rear, with those in the back being built into the fold-down center armrest.

As standard, the CLA 45 includes dual 10.25-inch screens mounted on the dash. The screen on the left displays the gauges and can be customized with four different design themes and endless layout combinations. The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system lives on the right and is controlled using a central touchpad, touchscreen, wheel-mounted controller, or by voice command. There’s a huge learning curve but once it becomes familiar, we think MBUX is highly intuitive to use.

A Multimedia Package adds built-in navigation with augmented reality while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard along with Bluetooth. We suggest opting for the excellent 12-speaker Burmester Premium sound system since it only tacks on $850 but bumps up the audio quality substantially.

In review of last year’s model, J.D. Power awarded a reliability rating of 69 out of 100 for the CLA 45, indicating that there is room for improvement in this aspect. At the time of writing, no recalls had been issued for the Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA 45.

While Mercedes doesn’t offer complimentary scheduled maintenance like BMW, the standard four-year/50,000-mile limited/powertrain warranty is on par with its primary competitors.

• Basic:

  4 Years  50,000 Miles

• Drivetrain:

  4 Years  50,000 Miles

• Corrosion:

  4 Years  50,000 Miles

• Roadside Assistance:

  4 Years  50,000 Miles

The 2021 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is the type of car we dream about for weeks after driving it. This is a genuinely compact vehicle with heaps of power that feels nimble without sacrificing completely on luxury. At $55,350, it feels well-equipped to take on the Audi RS3 and BMW M2 but the $73,665 as-tested price of our tester left a bit of sticker shock. In a vacuum, the CLA 45 is a pocket rocket that can keep up with supercars but when you compare it to its key rivals, it becomes a tougher sell.

The BMW M2 Competition offers a completely different experience with two doors, rear-wheel drive, and a manual transmission option, though it does sacrifice a bit on style, practicality, comfort, and luxury compared to the CLA. As for the RS3, Audi is about to replace it with an all-new model that should warrant consideration in this segment. The CLA 45 boasts better handling prowess than the outgoing RS3, but Audi’s turbocharged five-cylinder engine still feels more charismatic. Although its competition is also pretty stellar, we think the 2021 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is an awesome ride for buyers who want a compact car with tons of power, great style, and top-notch technology.

The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is offered in just one trim and sits atop the CLA-Class lineup. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine generating 382 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system are standard. An optional Drift Mode and an AMG Drive Unit which can help the driver quickly toggle between performance settings are on offer.

As standard, the CLA 45 comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, power-folding wing mirrors, a panorama roof, LED exterior lighting, and quad exhaust outlets. The overtly sporty cabin is highlighted by twin 10.25-inch screens, with the center one being a touchscreen that allows access to infotainment features. Standard equipment includes power-adjustable front seats with memory, heated front seats, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, LED interior ambient lighting, and hands-free access. The safety suite comprises eight airbags, blind-spot assist, crosswind assist, and attention alert.

A wide array of options can equip the sporty sedan with adaptive cruise control, parking assistance, ventilated front seats, and a 12-speaker Burmester surround sound system.

There is no shortage of packages available to either customize the appearance of the CLA 45 or bolster its feature count to almost E-Class levels. For $750, the AMG Night Package adds Gloss Black detailing for an even more menacing look. There is also the $1,550 AMG Aerodynamics Package that adds a more aggressive front splitter and an even bigger rear spoiler.

Moving inside, the most expensive upgrade is the $3,470 AMG Performance Seat Package Advanced with multi-contour front seats, although this package requires adding either Black or Bahia Brown leather ($1,450) and ventilated front seats ($450). On the tech front, the Multimedia Package costs $1,295 and boasts speed limit assist and navigation with augmented video. Once this is specced, the $1,700 Driver Assistance Package becomes available and this includes active steering assist, adaptive cruise control, active lane-change assist, and more.

Notable standalone upgrades are an AMG head-up display ($1,100), wireless device charging ($200), and a Burmester surround sound system ($850). Finally, the $4,300 AMG Dynamic Plus Package introduces a higher top speed, race/drift driving modes, and the ability to record and store performance data from the race track. However, this option requires equipping the Multimedia Package as well.

Check out some informative Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 video reviews below.