Turbo-diesel addition to CLA range
Mercedes-Benz confirms frugal oiler for swoopy new small sedanMercedes has confirmed it will add a turbo-diesel model to its CLA small sedan range, which goes on sale this week. The CLA 200 CDI will arrive Down Under in February 2014.
The third of five body styles expected to be built from Mercedes-Benz's new front/all-wheel drive transverse-engined MFA architecture, the CLA is being launched in petrol form this week Down Under.
The entry-grade CLA 200 ($49,900) is in dealers now, with the range-topping CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive pocket-rocket due to commence local deliveries next week.
In April 2014, the performance oriented CLA 250 Sport will arrive. Like the 200s, that model will be front-drive only.
The CLA 200 CDI will be priced from $50,400, a $500 premium on its identically equipped petrol sibling. The new 1.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel is rated at 100kW and 300Nm, and accelerates to 100km/h in a claimed 9.3 seconds.
The new turbo-diesel engine is matched with Benz's seven-speed dual-clutch automated gearbox. No manual option is offered across the A-, B- or CLA-Class ranges.
Official ADR fuel economy figures are still to be confirmed, but Mercedes-Benz Australia says its combined figure will be circa 4.4L/100km.
CLA equipment levels are generally higher than their A-Class hatch counterparts.
Standard on the CLA 200s is Becker Map Pilot sat-nav, Artico leather-look seat surfaces and climate-control air. Safety equipment is substantial with nine airbags standard as well as a reversing camera, Blind Sport Assistance, PRE-SAFE and Collision Prevention Assist. The CDI rolls on 18-inch alloy wheels.
A number of option packs will also be offered on the 200 CDI. Of note are AMG and Exclusive packs priced at $1490 and $2490 respectively.
The CLA is expected to significantly lift Mercedes-Benz Australia's volumes into 2014. The A- and B-Class have accounted for nearly 5000 sales to September this year. MBAu executives at today's launch drive of the CLA 200 and 45 AMG estimate the brand has 600-800 pre-orders in place for the CLA.
The high-performance CLA 45 AMG is currently sold out until after Easter 2014.
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