302bhp Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 announced

Mercedes has revealed the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35, the first performance-focused model of the new CLA saloon. Power comes from the same 2.0-litre petrol engine found in the AMG A 35 hatchback and saloon, with the CLA version also getting similar bodywork and interior upgrades. It will arrive in UK showrooms in August. Pricing has yet to be announced, but we expect the AMG CLA 35 to carry a premium over the AMG A 35 hatchback, so a starting price of around £38,000 is likely.

Cosmetic differences from the standard Mercedes CLA include restyled front and rear AMG bumpers, a larger rear diffuser, revised side skirts, twin-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, larger front brakes, a performance exhaust and a rear lip spoiler. Buyers can choose to upgrade to 19-inch alloy wheels and an adaptive suspension setup.

Best supercars you can buy in 2019

The 302bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine in the AMG CLA 35 is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, giving it a 0-62mph time of 4.9 seconds and a top speed limited to 155mph.

15

Interior revisions include a flat-bottomed AMG multifunction steering wheel, galvanized gear shift paddles, sports seats trimmed in microfibre and leather, red seat belts, programmable interior lighting and voice control. Mercedes’ latest ‘ultrawide’ MBUX touchscreen infotainment system is also included, incorporating the digital dial cluster and central infotainment screen into one single screen across the driver’s side of the dashboard.

The digital dial cluster can be customised to show one of a trio of different display modes from simple traditional dials to a track-focused version dubbed “Supersport”, which displays a large central rev counter surrounded by digital readouts. The central infotainment display shows the optional AMG Track Pace system, which records telemetry data during track driving.

The AMG CLA 35 comes with five driving modes, including an ‘Individual’ mode allowing the driver to customise the car’s setup. The newest mode is the ‘Slippery’ setting, which Mercedes claims improves the cars stability and traction on wet and icy roads. The ‘Comfort’ setting offers the most fuel-efficient and comfortable set up, with ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport+’ ramping up engine noise, gear changes and throttle response.

Why not check out our review of the Mercedes-AMG A 35 hatchback, or see our picks for the best sports cars you can buy in 2019.