Geneva show: Mercedes-Benz outs CLA Shooting Brake
BY ROBBIE WALLIS | 8th Mar 2019
FOLLOWING the reveal of the new-generation CLA sedan in January, Mercedes-Benz has ripped the covers off its Shooting Brake wagon version at the Geneva motor show, however the car is unlikely to come to Australia despite the previous-generation version being sold here.
Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific media relations and product communications manager Ryan Lewis told GoAuto that sales of the first-gen Shooting Brake – released locally in mid-2015 – could not justify bringing it back, and instead only the sedan will be offered Down Under.
The new Shooting Brake brings the same design, technology and powertrain updates as the CLA, including the new MBUX infotainment system and Energizing Coach feature, which can recommend one of the brand’s Energizing packages if the owner is wearing a Benz vivoactive smartwatch or compatible Garmin device.
Controlling the various comfort systems in the vehicle, the Energizing feature can set a range of moods in the car to suit the driver, while the MBUX system will be optionally available with augmented reality on its head-up display and navigation.
At 4688mm long, 1830mm wide and 1442mm tall with a 2729mm wheelbase, the new Shooting Brake measures 48mm longer and 53mm wider with a 30mm longer wheelbase than its predecessor, but sits 2mm lower to the ground.
Boot capacity stands at 505 litres, 10L more than the outgoing model and 45L more than the stanard CLA.
Only one engine has been detailed by the brand – a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder unit for the CLA250 which produces 165kW/350Nm, driving the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Mercedes says that by the time the car launches globally in September, a range of petrol and diesel powertrains with front- or all-wheel drive and manual or automatic transmissions will become available.
A performance-fettled 45 AMG version can also be expected at some point, while the new 35 AMG grade may also find its way into the CLA.
Adaptive damping will be optionally available for the redesigned suspension that offers a sportier tune than the mechanically related A-Class hatch, while rim sizes will range from 16 to 19 inches.
Styling has been updated for the new generation while still retaining the general look of its predecessor, with a headlight cluster that clearly differentiates it from the A-Class and ‘sharknose’ front end that is becoming increasingly popular on Mercedes models.
Its wider track gives it a muscular look, while the frameless widows give the car a sleek and sloping profile.
New-look tail-lights, a wider boot loading area and dual-exit exhaust outlets complete the rear-end look.
Advanced safety technology borrowed from the S-Class range will be included on the Shooting Brake, such as autonomous emergency braking, active cruise control, active lane change and lane keep assist and active park assist.
The CLA sedan is set to touch down in Australia in the third quarter of this year.
