The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class marked a significant entry point into the luxury sedan market, offering a compelling blend of style, performance, and technology. Available in two primary models, the CLA250 and the high-performance CLA45 AMG 4MATIC, this vehicle catered to a diverse range of drivers. This breakdown details the standard equipment, performance specifications, safety features, and available options for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers and enthusiasts.
Comfort and Convenience Features: Standard Across the Range
Both the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 and CLA45 AMG 4MATIC models came generously equipped with comfort and convenience features as standard. The mbrace2 In-Vehicle Technology Suite provided connected services, enhancing the driving experience. A 5.8-inch display screen coupled with a central controller served as the infotainment hub, integrating seamlessly into the dashboard. Driver information was clearly presented on a color instrument cluster display.
For ease of driving, rain-sensing intermittent windshield wipers automatically adjusted to changing weather conditions. Bluetooth hands-free calling enabled safe communication on the move, while cruise control maintained a consistent speed on longer journeys. Both driver and passenger benefited from power front seats with 3-position memory, allowing for personalized comfort settings. Practicality was addressed with rear folding seats for expanded cargo space and convenient twin cup holders. The exterior was subtly enhanced with exterior chrome trim, and air conditioning and floormats were standard for interior comfort. MB-Tex upholstery provided a durable and refined seating surface. The CLA250 featured anthracite trim, while the CLA45 AMG 4MATIC boasted aluminum trim, with aluminum trim being optional on the CLA250 for those desiring a sportier aesthetic.
Performance and Handling: From Efficient to Exhilarating
Under the hood, both the CLA250 and CLA45 AMG 4MATIC shared a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, but with significant performance differences. The ECO Start/Stop system was standard in both, enhancing fuel efficiency in urban driving. However, the CLA250’s engine delivered 208 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque between 1,250 and 4,000 rpm, providing brisk acceleration and everyday usability. In contrast, the AMG-tuned engine in the CLA45 AMG 4MATIC unleashed a remarkable 355 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 332 lb-ft of torque between 2,250 and 5,000 rpm, resulting in exhilarating performance and a significantly higher top speed.
The CLA250 had a top speed of 149 mph, while the CLA45 AMG 4MATIC reached 155 mph. Both models utilized a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both efficiency and driving enjoyment. The engine redline for the CLA250 was 6,500 rpm, slightly lower than the CLA45 AMG 4MATIC’s 6,700 rpm, reflecting the AMG model’s higher performance focus.
Safety and Security: Comprehensive Protection as Standard
Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety in the 2014 CLA Class, equipping both models with a suite of standard safety and security features. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST and ATTENTION ASSIST systems actively aided drivers in avoiding accidents. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System continuously monitored tire inflation, while an anti-theft alarm system provided security against unauthorized access. An electronic parking brake added convenience and safety.
Occupant protection was paramount, with driver air bags, window air bags, a driver knee air bag, a passenger knee air bag, and side impact air bags all included as standard. A remote key with panic button added an extra layer of security and convenience.
Paint, Upholstery, and Trim Options: Personalizing Your CLA
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class offered a wide array of paint, upholstery, and trim options to allow buyers to personalize their vehicle.
Paint Options: Both models shared an extensive color palette including standard Night Black, Jupiter Red, and Cirrus White. Metallic options like Cosmos Black, Polar Silver, Mountain Grey, Universe Blue, and Northern Lights Violet added further sophistication. For a more exclusive touch, designo Patagonia Red and designo Magno Polar Silver were also available.
Upholstery Options: The CLA250 offered Black MB-Tex, Beige MB-Tex, and Ash MB-Tex as standard, along with optional Black Leather, Brown Leather, and Ash Leather. The CLA45 AMG 4MATIC featured unique options like Black MB-Tex with Red Contrast Stitching and Red Seat Belts, and Black “Red Cut” Leather with Red Stitching & Seatbelts, alongside standard Black Leather, Brown Leather, and Ash Leather.
Trim Options: Interior trim choices included Burl Walnut Wood and Black Ash Wood for both models. The CLA250 also had Anthracite Silver trim, while the CLA45 AMG 4MATIC offered Aluminum and exclusive Carbon Fiber trim options.
Optional Packages: Enhancing Luxury and Performance
Beyond the standard equipment and individual options, Mercedes-Benz offered several packages to further enhance the 2014 CLA Class.
The Premium Package ($2,300 for both models) added features like a Garage Door Opener, Compass, Auto Dimming Mirrors, iPod/MP3 Media Interface, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Dual Zone Climate Control, harman/kardon Premium Sound system, and Heated Front Seats, significantly elevating the comfort and convenience levels.
For CLA250 buyers seeking a more luxurious interior, the Interior Package ($1,500) included Leather Upholstery, MB-Tex on the dash and doors with top-stitching, and an IR remote summer open/close feature on the driver door.
The Multimedia Package ($2,370 for both models) upgraded the infotainment system with a Rearview Camera, COMAND system with Navigation, Voice Control, 3D Map Views, 10 GB Music Register, a 7-inch High-Resolution LCD Screen, In-dash 6-Disc DVD Changer, Gracenote Media Database, and SiriusXM Traffic & Weather.
Sporty aesthetics and handling were available for the CLA250 with the Sport Package ($2,200), which included AMG Cladding, 18-inch AMG Twin 5-Spoke Wheels, Sport Suspension, and Larger Brakes with performance front discs and MB logo.
Driver assistance technologies were bundled in the Driver Assistance Package ($2,500 for both models), featuring Blind Spot Assist, DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control, and Lane Keeping Assist.
Exclusively for the CLA45 AMG 4MATIC, the AMG Driver’s Package ($2,800) pushed the performance envelope further with AMG Performance Suspension with stiffer dampening, an increased top speed of 167 mph, Red Calipers, and 19-inch 16-Spoke Alloy Wheels in Silver/Black.
The AMG Night Styling package (available from January 2014 for $750 on the CLA45 AMG 4MATIC) added distinctive gloss black exterior elements, including side window frame trim, mirror covers, rocker panel inserts, splitter, diffuser, and conjoined quad trapezoid tailpipes in black chrome.
Finally, the Exterior Carbon Fiber Package ($3,700 for CLA45 AMG 4MATIC) offered a range of carbon fiber exterior enhancements, including rocker panel inserts, splitter, diffuser, and mirror covers, for a more aggressive and sporty appearance.
Conclusion: A Well-Equipped Entry into Luxury
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class, in both CLA250 and CLA45 AMG 4MATIC guises, presented a compelling package for buyers seeking a luxury sedan with a focus on style, technology, and performance. With a generous list of standard features and a wide array of optional packages and individual customizations, the 2014 CLA Class allowed drivers to tailor the vehicle to their specific needs and preferences, marking a successful entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand.
