These Automedia spy pics provide the best look yet as to how the upcoming CLA Shooting Brake will look when it goes on sale in just under two years.
As evident from the accompanying images, it’s clear the new addition to Merc’s small-car range scores a wagon-ised derriere, as per the larger CLS Shooting Brake, endowing it with extra rear headroom and cargo space.
When it launches in 2015 the CLA Shooting Brake will become the fifth vehicle to use the company’s MFA small-car architecture, along with the A-Class, B-Class, CLA and GLA models.
The face of the car and the A-pillars appear identical to the CLA sedan, so the only key changes are aft of the B-pillar. That said, the taillights and rear bumper seem to have been carried over unchanged.
Engines in the CLA Shooting Brake are also likely to mirror those offered in the sedan version – ie 1.6- and 2.0-litre petrol units as well as various diesel options. Six-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch gearboxes will be on the menu (only the latter for Oz), and buyers in some markets will be able to opt for 4MATIC all-wheel-drive.
Naturally, there will also be a CLA45 AMG version of the Shooting Brake, and it will pack the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit that propels the feisty A45 AMG hatchback, punching out a robust 265kW and 450Nm.
In terms of pricing, expect the Shooting Brake to command a slight premium over the standard CLA, as is the case with the CLS range.
Early indications are that the slinky CLA has hit the mark, particularly among younger, more style-conscious buyers.
– with Automedia
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