What's New for 2013
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class is an all-new model.
Introduction
Synonymous with elegance, luxury and its corresponding price, Mercedes-Benz isn't an automaker that you would think needs to represent itself in the market of affordable luxury cars. The forthcoming introduction of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class suggests otherwise, however. Slotting below the existing C-Class (and above the compact B-Class, likely to debut in the U.S. next year), the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA will mimic the coupe-style look made popular by the larger CLS sedan.
The front-wheel-drive CLA will likely offer a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine capable of around 210 horsepower -- slightly more power than the current base C-Class sedan. It will be complemented by a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. A 2.2-liter diesel engine is likely for Europe and an outside possibility for the U.S. market. We also expect Mercedes to offer the CLA with all-wheel drive.
Sketches and spy photos show a production four-door that looks like a baby CLS, with small windows and a high beltline, and similar in size to the current C-Class. More interesting could be the rumors of a wagon-style variant, with a sloping hatchback-style roof that trades interior volume for style and features four doors rather than two.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class should go on sale next summer as a 2013 or 2014 model. Mercedes executives promise the CLA won't be a stripped-down econo-Benz, but in fact a "real Mercedes-Benz." Expect a sticker price of about $30,000, which would put the CLA in the same group as other compact sport-lux models like the Acura ILX, Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series. Check back for a full review of the 2013 CLA-Class, including specs, driving impressions and buying advice as it becomes available.
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