The Mercedes-Benz CLA Class has consistently turned heads with its sleek four-door coupe design, and the 2018 model year amplified its appeal with the introduction of striking special editions. Nestled within Mercedes-Benz’s compact car family alongside the GLA SUV, the CLA offered a compelling blend of performance, value, and distinctive styling, available in both front-wheel drive and the sure-footed 4MATIC all-wheel drive configurations. At the top of the performance spectrum, the Mercedes-AMG CLA45 stood as a testament to power and engineering, boasting a handcrafted AMG 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing an impressive 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse allowed the CLA45 to maintain its segment leadership with a blistering 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 4.1 seconds.
Building upon the subtle yet impactful design refinements of the previous year, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class showcased enhanced aesthetics and technology. In 2017, Mercedes-Benz designers had already subtly refined the CLA’s distinctive appearance, incorporating redesigned headlights, bumpers, trim elements, and tailpipes. The interior also received notable upgrades, including an improved COMAND infotainment screen, fresh interior trim options, and the addition of a standard rearview camera, enhancing both convenience and driver awareness.
For the 2018 model year, Mercedes-Benz introduced two exclusive special edition packages, each designed to accentuate different facets of the CLA’s personality. For those seeking a sophisticated and subtly sporty aesthetic, the Ice Edition was offered exclusively on the CLA250 model. Limited to a mere 400 units, this edition presented a cool and collected demeanor with a choice of Cirrus White or Polar White exterior paint, further enhanced by unique Matte White foil stripes. The Ice Edition was further distinguished by AMG Line Exterior body panels, the darkened accents of the Night Package, high-performance LED headlamps for superior visibility, the comfort and convenience of the Premium Package, a panoramic sunroof to bathe the cabin in natural light, and assertive 18-inch AMG wheels finished with black accents. This combination created a CLA250 that was both visually striking and comprehensively equipped.
At the other end of the spectrum, for drivers craving maximum visual impact and performance-oriented styling, the AMG Performance Studio Package was made available exclusively for the high-performance AMG CLA45. This package allowed for a bold and aggressive statement, offering exterior paint choices of either Night Black or Cosmos Black. These deep, dramatic base colors were then dramatically contrasted with Matte Graphite Grey AMG racing stripes stretching across the hood, roof, and trunk lid, as well as above the side sills. Adding further visual dynamism, vibrant Yellow accents were strategically placed on the front bumper, exterior mirrors, diffuser, and side sill inserts. Completing the assertive exterior were 19-inch AMG cross-spoke wheels in black, highlighted by a striking Yellow flange. Inside, the AMG Performance Studio Package included supportive and stylish AMG Performance Seats, further emphasizing the sporty character of this special edition. This package ensured the AMG CLA45 would not just perform at the highest level, but also command attention wherever it went.
Beyond these special editions, the 2018 CLA Class range benefited from feature enhancements designed to improve everyday usability and connectivity. The inclusion of the HANDS-FREE ACCESS feature significantly simplified cargo loading. This convenient option allowed for effortless opening of the trunk lid or liftgate with a simple foot motion near the rear bumper, eliminating the need to juggle keys or manually operate the trunk release. HANDS-FREE ACCESS became a part of the optional Convenience Package, adding to the overall practicality of the CLA.
Furthermore, the available Smartphone Integration Package brought seamless connectivity to the 2018 CLA Class. This package enabled the integration and voice-operated control of both iPhones® and Android smartphones via Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto platforms, respectively. Key smartphone functions could be safely accessed and operated through the vehicle’s controls, minimizing distraction and enhancing the driving experience in a connected world.
To provide a concise overview of the core models within the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class lineup, the following table summarizes key specifications:
| CLA250 / CLA250 4MATIC | AMG CLA45 | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of cylinders / arrangement | 4/inline | 4/inline |
| Displacement (cc) | 1,991 | 1,991 |
| Rated output (hp) | 208 @ 5,500 rpm | 375 @ 6,000 |
| Rated torque (lb-ft) | 258 @ 1,200-4,000 rpm | 350 @ 2,250-5,000 rpm |
| Acceleration 0-60mph (sec) | 6.9 / 6.8 | 4.1 |
| Top speed (mph)* | 130 mph | 155 mph |
*electronically limited
In conclusion, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class successfully combined its signature coupe styling with enhanced features and exclusive special editions. Whether opting for the refined sophistication of the Ice Edition on the CLA250 or the aggressive dynamism of the AMG Performance Studio Package on the CLA45, the 2018 CLA Class offered a compelling entry point into the Mercedes-Benz brand, appealing to a wide range of drivers seeking style, performance, and advanced technology in a compact package.
