Having launched the performance oriented CLA 45 AMG, Mercedes-Benz India will drive in the regular variants of the CLA within 6 months, Mr. Eberhard Kern, Managing Director of the company, told the media at the Buddh International Circuit.
The CLA is nothing but the four-door sedan derivative of the A Class. Keeping up with the style quotient of the A Class, the CLA gets a coupe-like profile and frameless doors. Underneath though, the cars share their MFA (Mercedes Front-wheel drive Architecture) platform. The interior of the CLA is identical to the A Class as well.
Hence, expect the CLA to be powered by the same set of engines used on the A Class in India. A 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine and a 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel engine could motivate the CLA in India.
The petrol motor is good for 120 bhp and 200 Nm of torque, and the diesel makes do with 107 bhp and 250 Nm of torque. Both engines could come paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox sending power to only the front wheels.
The CLA will compete with the Audi A3 Sedan in India, which launches on August 7.
Competitors: Audi A3 Sedan
Expected Price: INR 25 - 30 lakhs, ex-Showroom