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The Mercedes Benz CLA-Class hopes to change all that when it is launched this month at an expected price of R27-32 lakh. One of the hottest-selling sedans launched last year, the CLA is a runaway success in markets like the US and China due to its rakish looks. (Source: Mercedes)
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The CLA is a sedan version of the A-Class. Dissect the name CLA and you can break it up into CL and A. ‘CL’ in Mercedes terminology stands for a low-slung, coupe-like four-door car. First seen on the E-Class based CLS-Class, this low-rider profile created a sensation when it was launched back in 2004. (Source: Mercedes)
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Mercedes plans to power the CLA with the same set of engines that power the GLA in India. The 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine is likely to make 181 bhp of power and will be the one to go for if you want strong performance. Expect a 0-100 kmph time of around 7.5 seconds. The diesel CLA 200 CDI is likely to be less performance-oriented, with the 2,143cc engine making only 134 bhp. A seven-speed double clutch gearbox is likely to be the only choice as far as gearboxes are concerned. (Source: Mercedes)
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Step into the cabin and the A-Class family link is visible too. The architecture of the dashboard, in fact, is almost identical to that of the hatchback. Where the CLA will differ from the A-Class is in its use of materials. While it’s not clear what we will get on India-spec cars, you can safely expect a bit more chrome, leather and equipment in the sedan. (Source: Mercedes)
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The talking point of this car, of course, is the low-slung, sporty roof, which loops back to the rear in one clean swoop. It looks stunning, and it’s not just the roof; the rear of the car is also beautifully designed, with the lines on the sides and the top appearing to converge in the boot. (Source: Mercedes)
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Mercedes is expected to price its most affordable sedan quite competitively, without going in for a stripped down version with an attractive sticker price. It still may do an ‘Executive Edition’ at a later stage, but prices for the CLA are expected to start at around R27 lakh (ex-showroom). Top-of-the-line versions could easily cross the Rs 30-lakh mark, with the most expensive versions going up to around R32 lakh. No, the CLA is unlikely to give you the full Mercedes-Benz sedan experience, but if you are keen on the looks and want to drive a sedan with a three-pointed star on the nose, this could be the car for you. (Source: Mercedes)
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