2024 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 4MATIC Review: A Perfect Stepping Stone Into AMG Ownership

Ever since Mercedes-AMG became a buyword for high-performance Silver Arrows that one can buy at any local Mercedes-Benz dealer, they’ve always held a reputation for requiring some hefty coin to land one in your driveway. And for good reason, as AMG cars combined the exquisite design and engineering of a Mercedes-Benz with world-class high performance worthy of putting some far more expensive supercars to shame.

At some point, however, Mercedes-Benz realized that it needed to make its AMG offerings a bit easier to access, under the pretense of classic marketing strategy 101 and customer acquisition investment, it always pays to “start ’em young.” Though being young typically often means funds are limited as wealth accumulation conventionally occurs with time and thus, age, which is why it’s not abnormal to see lots of gray hairs and spectacles behind the wheel of some of Germany’s finest performance machines.

To reach down market, Mercedes-AMG decided to produce smaller and more affordable models in a similar mission once established by the original W201 190-Class, all so that younger buyers have the ability to acquire an AMG car rather than having to wait until they saved up for retirement. For that, they gave us the AMG versions of the CLA Class and we recently got a chance to spend some quality time with the cheapest AMG offering in the lineup. Despite being the poor person’s CLS AMG, can the CLA 35 still serve up the signature AMG experience without compromise?

2024 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 4MATIC First Impressions

Ever since Mercedes-Benz adopted Bruno Sacco’s design philosophies, one of which is “horizontal homogeneity,” where models should be styled after their flagships, smaller, cheaper Mercedes-Benz models lower on the lineup totem pole have always resembled their more expensive siblings. In the case with the CLA-Class, this couldn’t be more true, as it always incorporated key design elements and the overall profile of the larger, more expensive, CLS-Class, as a shrunken down, more affordable version.

And thus, it’s no surprise that the CLA 35 AMG looks like a CLS 63 AMG mini-me, with the same curvaceously coupe-like roofline, pillarless doors, aggressive front and rear lower fascias, AMG badges, and larger, sportier AMG wheels. Just in smaller proportions. The original CLS was definitely a looker, but the same couldn’t be said about the first-generation CLA overall, which looked a bit incohesive and discombobulated.

Thankfully, the second-generation takes on a more streamlined and sleeker appearance with fewer random curves and folds. It definitely looks much better than the previous generation and very much like a high-class machine, as a Mercedes-AMG should look.

Exterior Dimensions

Driving Impressions And Performance

Being a Mercedes-AMG, expectations for performance all around are high and, to get straight to the point, the CLA 35 delivers on this front without fault, even despite being the cheapest AMG model in the lineup. The CLA continues utilizing Benz’s MFA (Modular Front-Drive Architecture) front-wheel-drive-based platform that also underpinned the previous model. But thanks to updates and revisions, the improvements all around addressed some of the first-generation C117 CLA’s shortcomings, such as its ride quality and handling balance, which didn’t justify it being unreasonably stiff and uncomfortably unrefined at times.

That means the engine continues to be transversely mounted, but curing any concerns for too front-wheel-drive-like handling and torque steer is the fact 4MATIC all-wheel-drive is standard. And the AMG finishing school just cranks it up a few notches even more, with a brilliantly crisp steering turn-in with equally matching accuracy and fluidity, a solid chassis with class-leading mid-corner composure, and unbelievable amounts of grip.

These might be some big fighting words, but regardless of what drive mode the CLA 35 is in, it feels far more sprightly, balanced, and like an old-school BMW M and a pro-grade driver’s car than any of the newer BMW Ms of today. The steering is still on the lighter side than what I personally prefer, but otherwise, the CLA 35 AMG is a genuine class act.

Braking And Acceleration

Under the hood still lies Benz’s hot and exceptionally capable 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline “M139” engine, but in a detuned state compared to the more powerful variant in the more expensive and much more potent CLA 45. Still, the CLA 35 still ain’t nothing to dismiss with its 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of twist. The sprint to 60 still only takes less than five seconds and the top speed is limited electronically to 155 MPH.

No matter the gear or the speed, the CLA 35 AMG has virtually zero turbo lag and with its 6,500 RPM redline, it’s so smooth, quick, and responsive in its power delivery that one can almost mistaken it for a naturally-aspirated mill. I’m far from the biggest fan of four-cylinder engines, but the M139 is an absolute peach of a motor.

Complimenting is AMG’s fabulously tuned eight-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT dual-clutch automatic that’s an absolute joy to actuate up and down with the lovely metal steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. And helping to bring things back down to legal speeds are wonderful AMG-tuned clampers.

• Acceleration 0-60 MPH: 4.8 Seconds (Manufacturer Claimed)

Performance Specifications

2024 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 4MATIC Fuel Economy

The Environmental Protection Agency rates the CLA 35 AMG to achieve up to 23 miles per gallon in the city cycle, up to 29 on the highway, and up to a combined average of 25 mpg overall. Even with over 300 horses and the amount of performance it offers, the CLA 35 AMG offers stellar fuel efficiency for such a potent performance automobile.

Even with a week full of heavy-footed and spirited driving with a mixture of some casual cruising on the highway, the CLA 35 in my hands never dropped below an average of 25.8 mpg, according to the trip computer. At some points, I even saw as high as 30.9 on the highway.

Interior Design And Comfort

As a Mercedes-AMG model, the company and its tuning division have done well over the years to strike a beautiful balance between sport- and performance-oriented interiors and Mercedes-Benz’s signature levels of comfort. The front seats hit a perfect sweet spot of support and comfort without having too aggressive bolsters that dig into the body, even with my wider-than-average husky frame. The rear seats are more bench-like but still provide enough comfort for adults.

Space is where it becomes a challenge as the CLA is a subcompact automobile and with its low-slung coupe-like roofline and small proportions, interior occupants will feel a tight squeeze if all four seats are filled with average-sized adults. There is enough room for a quick hop to an evening’s dinner spot, but any longer and it will be taxing. Getting in and exiting is also a challenge for rear occupants as that roofline also requires quite a bit of a head-duck in order to get in and out. But given the type and class if vehicle the CLA is, this isn’t much of a surprise.

The CLA 35’s interior design and layout still follows in the footsteps of the standard CLA and other Mercedes-Benz models, a theme that we’ve all become accustomed to and familiar with over the past decade. Despite its plethora of in-car tech and driver assist systems, the interior still remains logically and thoughtfully arranged without there being too many complications or it being an overwhelming button and knob fest. And thankfully, physical switchgear still exists for the most pertinent infotainment and HVAC controls, versus being tucked away in the car’s touchscreens or with annoying haptic touch interfaces.

Interior Dimensions

Technology And Ease Of Use

If you’ve been inside or used a Mercedes-Benz over the past several years, then you’d find the CLA’s MBUX or Mercedes-Benz User Xperience, familiar as it’s simply an updated version of the system that debuted in the mid 2010s. Moreso, the CLA and its sedan sibling, the A-Class, were the two vehicles that debuted MBUX in its latest rendition, with dual 10.25-inch screens for both the instrument cluster and infotainment system.

The system does everything you’d expect it to in terms of driver info, infotainment, and HVAC control and because pretty much all the systems do the same things, there’s no real contest in terms of the competition as they simply go about the same functions in their own ways. I personally find MBUX one of the easier systems to use, particularly when compared to BMW’s iDrive or Audi’s MMI, but it’s largely dependent on preference.

Cargo And Storage Space

Because it’s a four-door coupe, the CLA 35 AMG’s cargo space isn’t exactly what you call abundant, as that’s what the more upright GLA and GLB AMG subcompact crossovers are for if you need more space. But with 11.6 cubic feet and the ability to fold the rear seats down in a 60/40 split, there’s enough room to haul a month’s worth of Costco or BJ’s bulk items, or some weekend bags for a few people.

2024 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 Vs. Its Competitors

As a high-performance luxury subcompact sports sedan, the CLA 35 AMG’s competition pretty much narrows down to the BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe, the Audi S3, and even the Acura Integra Type S. Both the Audi and the BMW cost around the same as the CLA 35, which starts at around $54,950. However, the Mercedes certainly is the most expensive as our tester stamped its invoice at nearly $63,000, or $62,875, thanks to nearly $7,225 in options and extra packages. The BMW and Audi both start below $50,000, while the Acura is interestingly only a shade cheaper than the Mercedes, but more expensive than the other two Germans, at $52,600.

But that premium doesn’t come without any rewards, as the CLA 35 AMG is probably the best-driving and the most well-rounded of the bunch without sacrificing total performance. It also looks the most high-class and just feels the most well-executed and thought out. However, this doesn’t disparage any of its competition as they are equally great performing and driving vehicles.

How The 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 AMG 4MATIC Compares To The BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe

Because BMW M and Mercedes-AMG make up one of automotive history’s greatest rivalries, it only makes sense to compare the CLA 35 AMG 4MATIC with the M235i xDrive Gran Coupe. Both are subcompact luxury sports sedans all properly treated by their revered manufacturers’ performance divisions, both have a starting price of around $50,000, both offer similar and respectable performance and luxury for the money, and both are the brands’ starting points for those looking to dip their toes into the worlds of Mercedes-AMG or BMW. But what the CLA offers that the BMW doesn’t is a significantly more powerful and faster version, which for Benz, is the CLA 45 AMG.

Performance

Ironically, both the CLA 35 AMG and M235i xDrive sport front-wheel-drive platforms with all-wheel drive as standard and transverse-mounted high-performance 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline four-cylinders with motorsports pedigree. Both serve up 302 horses, though interestingly, the BMW serves up quite a bit more torque: 332 lb-ft versus the Benz’s 295 and thus, is supposedly slightly quicker to 60 MPH by just 0.2 of a second. In terms of handling, because of their similar roots, it would be a nearly neck-and-neck battle.

Comfort

If this was 20 years ago, the Mercedes would’ve easily taken the trophy in the comfort department. Though over the years, BMW’s priorities shifted and many of their cars went from everyday and livable racetrack monsters to ‘Bahn-storming grand touring machines, a descriptor once attributed to AMG Benzes. Ironically, BMW’s as a result have become softer and more comfortable, while Mercedes-AMGs have become sharper and more performance-oriented, but interestingly, without much compromise to their comfort and everyday usability. Thus, the gap either way has narrowed considerably that either of these cars do just fine in the comfort zones, and both suffer from the same size and space restrictions.

Technology

Because both Benz and BMW always saw eye-to-eye when it comes to in-car technology, it’s pretty much a dead heat in this space and all down to preference and design. Some will find one easier to use than the other, but it’s largely subjective as both vehicles sport the same amount of tech, gizmos, driver and safety aids, and drivetrain tech that neither has an advantage nor disadvantage over the other.

Our Recommendation For Which Model You Should Buy

Because there are two Mercedes-AMG CLA offerings, it all really comes down to how much performance you want and if you’re willing to pay for it. The CLA 35 AMG is already a pricey proposition with its $55,000 starting price, but you do get a lot of car. And considering the amount of car and performance that you get, it actually turns out to be considerably good value, relatively speaking.

If you do want more power, to the tune of nearly 114 extra horses and nearly 80 extra torques, plus more aggressive tuning all around, the CLA 45 S does bring the goods, offering near supercar-like performance with its 0-60 time in just four seconds flat. And even with its $67,050 starting price, you’ll be keeping up with or even possibly beating some higher-end supercars that cost nearly twice as much.

But if you’re not looking to try and make that big of a leap, you won’t really be missing much with the CLA 35 AMG as it’s already a phenomenal performance luxury proposition as is and a great way to dip your toes into the world of Mercedes-AMG ownership. The only problem is that if you’ve driven a more expensive and more theatrical AMG car before, you might find yourself reaching the CLA 35 AMG’s limits quickly, which might give you a plateau feeling, knowing that there’s more on offer if you just save up some more money.