Mercedes-Benz will launch its next-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA liftback in 2019 with a sharper look and all-new cabin infotainment.
Captured on camera winter testing in the Arctic Circle, the future model will receive slimmer headlights and more angular taillights to give it an overall sleeker look.
The car, built on Mercedes’s New Generation Compact Cars (NGCC) structure, which is shared with the next A-Class, will grow in size to offer more interior room. A Shooting Brake variant is also expected to be produced, although this will likely arrive at a later date.
This will make it similar in size to the first A-Class saloon, which is due to arrive before the next CLA towards the end of 2018. A Mercedes spokesman suggested to Autocar that the CLA’s more sporting appearance and handling would ensure it attracts a different buyer.
The spokesman cited the success of the CLS and Mercedes-Benz E-Class models as evidence for this trend. They said that those larger cars share a similar relationship to the CLA and A-Class saloon, slotting into different segments despite some similarities in size and form.
The next CLA will cherrypick powertrains from the future A-Class range. Like the current model, it will come with turbocharged four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, producing from around 120bhp to 230bhp, while the range-topping AMG CLA 45 is expected to have more than 400bhp.
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narrow mobile MKII
Surely the existing model is one of the stragest looking cars on the road. with its CLS/ E-coupe like curve shape but too narrow body. its the sort of distored proportion that makes you blink and check again. as the lowest common denominator i guess it has to fit into the space they want to leave for an entry level saloon. The estate is only marginally less awkward, the amg wheel are really nice which i guess is some sort of consolation. Thoroughly uninspiring to drive - Mercedes had one on display outside my office for a whole day about 18 months ago and I had to have a go - these are bought purely on aspiration. Which is fine but the awkward shape and too narrow body are just weird in my eyes
Not for me
The c class is too big for me, the a class saloon too small and the cla is slightly too big. Hopefully they can do a one in the middle...
Liftback?
Not a saloon, like the current CLA? I'd be surprised if that were the case.
Possibly...
Despite the swirly camouflage, I still think the CLA will retain its saloon-style opening bootlid. Certainly that is what was shown in close-up photos.
I would also hazard a guess that this model will slot above the A-Class saloon for those who are purchasing the car primarily for its appearance.
Daniel Joseph wrote:
My thoughts too, or is young Mr Sheehan getting too clever clever.