In-depth reviews

Mercedes CLA review - Reliability and safety

The CLA is closely related to the A-Class hatchback, which means its packed with safety kit

Overall Auto Express Rating

3.5 out of 5

Reliability and Safety Rating

3.5 out of 5

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The CLA is closely related to the A-Class hatchback and as such comes fully loaded with safety kit. All cars get autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, a driver attention monitor and cruise control as standard, along with traffic sign and speed limit assist functions.

Euro NCAP awarded the CLA a top five-star rating in 2019, with an outstanding 96 per cent score for occupant protection and 91 per cent achieved for child safety.

Although the CLA model didn't feature in our 2022 Driver Power customer satisfaction survey, its A-Class sibling finished in 30th position out of 75 cars in the best cars to own poll. Mercedes itself has received mixed responses from customers over the past few years. In 2020, the German manufacturer placed 28th out of 30 brands, followed by an improvement to 13th spot in 2021. However, customers voted Mercedes into 23rd place in the most recent survey in 2022.

Warranty

As with every new Mercedes, the CLA comes with a three-year, unlimited-mileage warranty and roadside assistance that’s valid across Europe. This matches those offered by Audi and BMW.

Servicing

Mercedes offers flexible servicing payment options on all its cars. As with many other manufacturer schemes, this allows you to spread the cost of servicing over monthly payments, or pay for all your car’s servicing requirements in one go. Mercedes’ scheme is comprehensive and can be customised depending on your car’s use and mileage.

Which Is Best

Cheapest

  • Name
    CLA 180 AMG Line 4dr Tip Auto
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • Price
    £31,330

Most Economical

  • Name
    CLA 250e AMG Line Premium Plus 4dr Tip Auto
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • Price
    £40,755

Fastest

  • Name
    CLA 250 AMG Line 4dr Tip Auto
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • Price
    £34,380
Executive editor

Paul was employed across automotive agency and manufacturer-side sectors before joining Auto Express in 2020 as our online reviews editor. After a brief sojourn at a national UK newspaper, Paul returned as executive editor where he now works closely with our commercial partners.

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