CES: Mercedes teases new-gen CLA

MERCEDES-BENZ has released a single teaser image of its all-new, second-generation CLA small/medium sedan ahead of a public debut at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas next month.

Set for an Australian release in the third quarter of 2019, few concrete details are currently known of the new model, but it will share its MFA2 underpinnings with the new A-Class hatchback.

A single, darkened teaser image of the CLA has been released, showing the familiar sloped roofline and C-pillar of the outgoing model.

Exterior styling is expected to mirror that of the A-Class and larger CLS with narrow, triangular headlights, a restyled grille and angular tail-lights.

Mercedes says the new CLA will feature the company’s latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment and voice recognition system, which has had features added since it debuted at last year’s CES.

It will likely be projected onto a 10.25-inch touchscreen, as is the case in the A-Class.

The new CLA will also feature an updated version of Mercedes’ Energising program that tailors the climate control, seat heating and massage functions, fragrances and ambient lighting to the user’s preferences, and now includes a feature that offers individual fitness recommendations.

Powertrains have not yet been revealed for the CLA, however like the last generation, they are expected to be the same as in the A-Class, which includes a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine developing 120kW/250Nm via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic in A200 guise.

The more powerful A250 has also landed locally, which ups engine size to 2.0 litres and increases power to 165kW/350Nm while driving all four wheels instead of the front wheels in the A200.

Like the first-gen version, the new A-Class is expected to be offered with a performance-oriented AMG A45 variant around 2020, while a less powerful AMG A35 tune will also come to market next year for the hatchback. Both engines could also migrate from the A-Class to the CLA.

Other powertrain options include a 250e hybrid version featuring Mercedes’ EQ Boost starter/alternator technology, and an entry-level 180 variant.

A Shooting Brake wagon body style is also expected to be carried over given it was offered in four trim levels on the first-gen version.

More details on the new CLA will be revealed when the new mode is uncovered at CES, which kicks off on January 8.