The Mercedes-Benz CLA 2022: A Luxurious Lap Dance with Delightful Performance Twists

4.3 / 5
Mercedes-Benz CLA (2022)
Comfort
9.5
Performance
8.0
Value
7.5
Reliabiliy
8.5
Author
Graham Harrington
June 4th, 2025
In the world of automotive elegance, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA stands as a testament to the art of luxurious motoring. A vehicle that doesn't just whisper sophistication but declares it with an air of unapologetic grandeur. As a connoisseur of the finer things on four wheels, I find myself irresistibly drawn to the CLA's promise of opulence and style. This is a car that embodies the spirit of refined luxury, seamlessly blending exquisite craftsmanship with advanced technology. Join me as we delve into this masterpiece, exploring whether the CLA's allure extends beyond its captivating exterior to deliver a driving experience that is both exhilarating and impeccably polished.

First impressions? The CLA doesn't just whisper luxury; it shouts it from the rooftops of Mayfair. The exterior is a lesson in aerodynamic elegance, with its sculpted body lines that look like they were crafted by Michelangelo on a caffeine high. Those LED headlights are more piercing than a stern glance from a headmistress, and the grille, oh that grille! It’s as if someone took a diamond mesh and said, "That's not enough sparkle; let’s add some more." As I stepped inside, I was greeted by a cabin that could make a five-star hotel suite feel like a budget hostel. The seats enveloped me like a plush velvet glove, and the dashboard was a symphony of soft-touch materials and high-tech wizardry. If this car could talk, it would probably have a posh British accent and ask if I’d like a spot of tea.

But the real question was, could the CLA match its luxurious demeanor with a performance that would leave me grinning like a Cheshire cat? Well, dear readers, I took it on the track to find out. The weather, in true British fashion, decided to offer a medley of sunshine, rain, and a hint of fog, just to keep things interesting. As I revved the engine, the CLA responded with a purr that was more "purring panther" than "growling beast," but that’s part of its charm. It’s confident, unhurried, and dare I say, a bit cheeky.

On the straights, the CLA glided with a grace that would make a ballerina jealous. The turbocharged engine delivered power smoothly, like a butler serving a vintage wine, with no sudden jerks or surprises. It's not about blistering acceleration; it's about sophisticated speed—the kind that lets you sip your non-spill coffee while overtaking less fortunate drivers. The ride quality was sublime, with the suspension soaking up bumps as if they were mere suggestions rather than obstacles. It’s the sort of comfort that might make you forget you’re doing laps around a track and not cruising down a sun-dappled boulevard.

But what about the corners, you ask? Ah, the bends of our track were where the CLA decided to show a bit of its playful side. The steering was precise, giving just enough feedback to make me feel involved without requiring a wrestling match at the wheel. It’s the kind of handling that makes you feel like a driving god, even if you’re more Mr. Bean than Lewis Hamilton. The car’s balance through the corners was impressive, sticking to the tarmac with the determination of a cat clinging to the last bit of tuna. Yet, it never lost its composure, ensuring that luxury was never compromised for the sake of speed.

In terms of tech, the CLA is a gadget lover’s dream. The infotainment system is as intuitive as it is flashy, with graphics that would make a Hollywood blockbuster's special effects department envious. It’s packed with features, all laid out in a user-friendly manner that doesn’t require a PhD in computer science to operate. The sound system? It’s like having your own private concert, with acoustics so crisp that even your terrible singing sounds Grammy-worthy.

In the end, the Mercedes-Benz CLA 2022 may not be the fire-breathing dragon that some Speed Demons crave, but it’s a refined gentleman with a mischievous twinkle in its eye. It’s the car for those who want to arrive at the finish line with their hair perfectly in place and their spirits high. So, if you’re looking for a vehicle that combines the best of luxury with a dash of performance, the CLA is a delightful choice. Just be prepared to have your socks charmed off, rather than blown off, and remember, in the world of luxury, sometimes less roar means more class.



Ah, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA—a car that doesn’t just whisper luxury, it belts it out with the gusto of an opera singer. This is not your typical sedan; it's more like a posh spa day on wheels. With its sleek, aerodynamic lines, the CLA is the automotive equivalent of a tailored tuxedo, constantly turning heads and making lesser cars feel like they're wearing last season's fashion. Inside, the cabin is an oasis of comfort and high-tech wizardry, where even the cup holders seem to say, 'Yes, we are this fabulous.' And let's talk about the drive—smooth and confident, like a well-rehearsed waltz. It's not about raw power here; it's about making you feel like royalty as you glide down the road. So, if you're in the market for a car that combines luxury with a dash of panache, this CLA is your ticket to automotive elegance.

Specifications

SpecificationValue
Engine2.0L Inline-4 Turbo
Horsepower221
Torque258 lb-ft
Transmission7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Drive typeFront-wheel drive
Top speed130 mph
0 to 60 mph6.3 seconds
Fuel economy25 mpg city / 36 mpg highway
Seating capacity5
Infotainment systemMBUX with 7-inch display