The CLA takes the A-Class engineering in a four-door coupe body, with a falling roofline and markedly bolder styling.
The trade-off is simple and worth stating plainly: you gain in looks, you lose in rear headroom and boot practicality.
Of the 189 used Mercedes-Benz CLA listed right now: 51% are diesel. 85% have automatic transmission. Half are priced under €25,000.
The first generation, from 2013 to 2019, makes up a large share of the offer and remains the most affordable.
The second generation, from 2019, brings the MBUX interface and improved rear space, without matching an A-Class.
The Shooting Brake, the estate derived from the CLA, partly solves the volume problem while keeping the line: it compares directly at equal budget.
Check rear headroom under real conditions, with passengers you know: it is the main trade-off of the design and it cannot be guessed from a photograph.
Most cars have a dual-clutch gearbox: drive it in slow manoeuvres and on a hill start.
On recent diesels, the AdBlue history and the servicing of the emissions system should be checked.
Consumables cost what premium consumables cost, whatever the purchase price.
A driver alone or as a couple who puts design and finish first, and uses the rear seats only occasionally.
The links below narrow by engine, gearbox or budget.
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