The 2024 Mercedes CLA lineup comes with a power boost and exterior upgrades, and for the first time in the US, the 416-hp AMG CLA 45 S model.
Mercedes just announced the facelifted CLA entry-level sedan for North America. The svelte-looking compact car doesn’t bring too many upgrades, with one big exception — the AMG division will bring the more powerful “S” version of the CLA 45. It’s a turbocharged four-cylinder 416-hp super-sedan that’s the most powerful engine of its kind on the continent. The upgraded hot model replaces the non-S AMG CLA 45 that packed “only” 382 hp.
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S also utilizes electricity to help it achieve the 416-hp figure and the healthy 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque. However, it’s only a 48-volt setup that can’t power the vehicle independently. Regardless, combined with AMG’s Performance 4MATIC AWD system and 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox, the 2024 CLA 45 S can reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 4 seconds, and it won’t stop accelerating until it reaches 167 mph (269 km/h).
However, if that’s too much performance for you, Mercedes-AMG also offers the CLA 35 Coupe, which packs the same engine but tuned to 302 hp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. The mild-performance model needs 4.8 seconds to reach 60 mph and has an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). The AWD system and 8-speed dual-clutch are standard here as well.
Both performance models get a unique AMG front grille and will also come with a rear spoiler if you opt for the Aerodynamics Package Plus. The 2024 CLA 35 will have a standard 18-inch 10-spoke wheel with a high gloss finish; meanwhile, the 2024 CLA 45 S will sport 19-inch wheels with machined surfaces.
The regular, non-AMG CLA 250 and CLA 250 4MATIC also receive the 48-volt treatment, which provides an additional 13-hp boost to the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine’s 221 hp. Both models are similar, apart from the fact that the CLA 250 4MATIC packs an AWD system while the other one is FWD. The 0-60 mph sprint takes a solid 6.3 seconds in both cars.
As for the updates on the exterior, the 2024 CLA 250 models get a refreshed front fascia, a new star pattern for the mesh in the front grille, updated graphics inside the headlights, and a redesigned rear diffuser. Furthermore, the 2024 CLA models will be available in two new colors — Hyper Blue and Starling Blue, and there will be three design options for the wheels.
Inside, the MBUX infotainment now packs two horizontal 10.25-inch screens, much like most other models from Mercedes and BMW, too. Two-tone color schemes are on the cards, along with five upholstery options. Moreover, the performance models now come with a standard AMG Performance steering wheel.
Mercedes didn’t announce how much the 2024 CLA costs, but we should know more about trims and prices soon. The updated CLA will arrive in dealerships later this year.
Gallery: 2024 Mercedes CLA Class
