Power
0–100 km/h
Top speed
Fuel (combined)
What owners say
Overview
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year, powertrain, and owner expectations. For the first-generation (approx. 2014-2019) CLA, sentiment is predominantly negative, characterized by widespread criticism of its stiff ride quality, perceived cheap interior m
Known issues
• First Generation (2014-2019) Specific:, Transmission problems (DCT/7G-DCT) — Grinding noise on light acceleration from stop, whining in second gear, erratic RPM behavior, sluggish/unreliable starting. Frequency: very frequent.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 1 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2023 | 6 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2020 | 23 | 0 | back over prevention |
| 2019 | 51 | 0 | power train |
| 2018 | 44 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2016 | 65 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2015 | 157 | 0 | engine |
| 2014 | 193 | 0 | engine |
| 2013 | 9 | 0 | air bags |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Specifications
Generation
Version
CLA 350 85 kWh (354 Hp) 4MATIC EQ Technology
From 2025-2026
Quick facts
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