2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC Coupe Review

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC Coupe continues to refine its position as a stylish, entry-level luxury sedan with coupe-like aesthetics. Blending sleek design, advanced technology, and all-wheel-drive capability, this latest iteration offers an appealing balance of performance and sophistication. With updates to its powertrain, interior features, and driver-assistance systems, the CLA 250 remains a strong contender in the compact luxury segment.

In this review, we’ll take a closer look at its design, performance, technology, and overall value to see how it stacks up against its competition.

Pricing and Trim Options

In Canada, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA is offered in three trims. One is the standard version and the two are of the AMG variety. The CLA 250 4MATIC Coupe starts at $51,000 for the base model, ticking all the optional packages and trim boxes, the price increases by many thousands of dollars.

The next trim is the AMG CLA 35 4MATIC, with a starting price of $61,500. The top trim is the AMG CLA 45 S 4MATIC+, with a starting price of $75,000. These prices do not include optional packages and trims. None of the prices include Freight & PDI.

Our review 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC Coupe had an MSRP of $56,500. Options included were the Exclusive Trim ($1,600), Burmester Sound System ($1,100), High-tech Silver Metallic paint ($950), 360-degree camera ($800), Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC ($800), and Black Open-Pore Wood Trim ($250).

Notable features by trim

Each trim level of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA comes with its own set of standout features. My test drives revealed some impressive differences between models that might help you decide which suits your style and needs.

The base CLA 250 offers excellent value with those dual screens and safety tech. Stepping up to AMG models gets you serious performance upgrades without sacrificing daily usability.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The CLA 250’s 2.0L turbo engine packs a punch with 221 horsepower that feels zippy in daily driving. I love how the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission shifts quickly and smoothly, making the car feel more expensive than its price tag suggests.

2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine

I absolutely love what’s under the hood of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC—the lively 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. This spirited engine churns out a solid 221 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque between 1,800 to 4,000 rpm, offering instant, responsive power whenever your foot hits the gas.

Paired with a compact mild-hybrid system, it boosts performance while improving fuel economy—without extra weight or bulkiness.

By forcing additional air into the cylinders, the turbocharger produces stronger combustion for greater power. Mercedes engineers crafted this to deliver a blend of sporty driving and easy, everyday handling.

You’ll notice the advantage clearly during highway passes or merging into quick-moving traffic. With torque available right from low engine speeds, acceleration feels smooth, effortless, and confident.

8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission

I really like the 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission in the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC Coupe. It sends power directly to the wheels with lightning-fast shifts—so quick, they’re done before you know it.

The gearbox makes every drive feel smooth but still thrilling. Paired perfectly with the turbocharged engine, it delivers swift acceleration that presses you gently into your seat.

Gear shifts happen instantly, keeping the engine in the ideal power range so you always get the best performance possible.

Unlike typical automatic setups, this Mercedes transmission selects the next gear ahead of time. That way, gear changes take just milliseconds, giving you a precise, connected driving feel.

This clever design improves speed, handling, and even gas mileage, without losing the fun. Now let’s see how this setup performs in everyday driving and real-world fuel economy.

0-100 KMPH acceleration time

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC Coupe delivers impressive power under that stylish hood. According to Mercedes-Benz, the CLA coupe hits 100 km/h from a standstill in just 6.4 seconds—fast enough to press you gently into your seat as you step on the gas.

Top speed levels out at over 200 km/h, which feels like more than enough for both weekday commutes and fun weekend rides.

If you’re hungry for extra power, the AMG versions dial the excitement way up. The mid-level AMG CLA35 reaches 100 km/h in only 4.9 seconds, bringing the experience even closer to outright sports-car performance.

But it’s the top-tier CLA45 S that pushes it over the edge, a 4.1 second sprint to 100 km/h, which is a time achieved by many supercars from not long ago.

This blend of sporty acceleration and everyday usability helps position the CLA perfectly between a comfortable commuter vehicle and an exciting weekend toy—best of both worlds, for sure.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

According to Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN), the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC should consume 9.3/6.9/8.2 Liters/100 kilometers in city/highway/combined driving. After driving the CLA 250 for a week, the onboard computer showed 8.1 L/100 km, in 60/40 highway/city driving, on premium fuel. It’s pretty much spot on with the claimed numbers, and a pretty impressive number for a 200+ horsepower car.

Exterior Design and Styling

The 2025 CLA 250 4MATIC turns heads with its sharp lines and coupe-like profile. I love how Mercedes kept the sloping roofline while adding new LED lighting that makes this car stand out at night.

Sleek coupe-inspired silhouette

I think the 2025 CLA Coupe has a beautiful design, much improved over the previous generation. Its coupe-like shape slices smoothly through the air and draws plenty of attention on the street. The aerodynamic curves aren’t just attractive—they help this beauty glide effortlessly while turning heads everywhere it goes.

Mercedes shaped the body with graceful lines, giving it a speedy look even while standing still.

Form follows performance in the CLA 250’s athletic silhouette.

Up front, the grille grabs attention with its bold and unique style, giving the car a muscular stance. From there, sharp, fluid lines extend toward the rear, emphasizing luxury, motion, and speed all at once.

Buyers can opt for AMG body styling to heighten that sporty vibe, along with either 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels to match their personal taste. And of course, there are plenty of stylish colors available—perfect for adding your own flair to this stunning ride.

Available color options

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC Coupe comes in amazing exterior colors that perfectly match your personality and style. During my test drive, the car’s vibrant colors really highlighted its sleek shape and sporty stance. Here’s a quick look at each option:

• Night Black offers a classic, striking appearance, making the sporty shape and shiny chrome details pop.
• Polar White has a fresh, sharp look, clearly showcasing the elegant curves and design touches against its bright surface.
• Mountain Grey Metallic provides an elegant yet subtle shade that blends effortlessly into any environment.
• Cosmos Black Metallic is a deeper twist on standard black, with soft metallic sparkles that gently reflect light.
• MANUFAKTUR Patagonia Red Metallic gives off a bold, deep red tone, confidently standing apart from everyday colors.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside the CLA 250, I found a cabin that feels much richer than its price suggests. The soft-touch dash, metal accents, and ambient lighting create a space that punches above its weight class.

Premium materials and finishes

I really appreciate how the 2025 CLA 250 4MATIC Coupe wraps you in comfort from every angle. The cabin offers premium materials that fit together perfectly. As you sit, your fingers easily glide across genuine leather seats—available as an option, if you desire that extra dash of elegance.

Two, sharp 10.3-inch screens add a modern, tech-forward mood that’s still cozy and welcoming. One screen shows all your digital gauges, while the other manages music, navigation, and entertainment.

Comfort features truly shine in this Mercedes. A heated steering wheel keeps your hands warm on chilly mornings, and ventilated front seats cool you down during hot summer drives. Thoughtful design shows clearly in each stitch and every carefully assembled panel—nothing feels rushed or cheaply made.

These refined touches make the CLA feel pricier than it actually is. Plush leather seating options and tasteful interior details create a classy environment that turns daily driving into something you’ll genuinely enjoy.

Cargo space and practicality

The trunk offers a practical 11.6 cubic feet of cargo space (440 liters), plenty for weekend luggage or a quick grocery stop.

My golf clubs slid in easily too, no hassle at all. Folding rear seats in a helpful 40/20/40 split let you carry larger items without much fuss.

Front-seat passengers have ample room, with 41.8 inches (1,062 mm) for legs and a roomy 40.2 inches overhead (1,023 mm). Backseat legroom comes in at 33.9 inches (861 mm), along with 35.7 inches (908) of headroom—fine for shorter drives around town.

While the interior isn’t huge, smart design keeps everything functional and tidy, offering useful pockets and cubbies to stash smaller gear. All these thoughtful details make the CLA 250—a sleek-looking coupe—surprisingly practical for daily life.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The MBUX system in the 2025 CLA 250 now sports a cleaner layout with faster response times. I found the voice commands work much better than before, picking up natural speech patterns even with road noise.

Updated MBUX system

I’m honestly loving the upgraded MBUX setup in the 2025 CLA 250. This infotainment system offers a sharp 10.25-inch touchscreen that instantly responds to finger taps. Plus, improved voice commands allow me to handle navigation, climate adjustments, or music changes effortlessly—just by asking, “Hey Mercedes”. I can speak casually, using everyday language, rather than fixed commands—it’s almost like chatting with a clever pal who lives inside my dashboard.

The best feature, though, has to be the augmented reality navigation. It displays clear route instructions directly onto live camera views, making missed turns almost impossible. Connecting my smartphone is effortless too, creating a smooth and convenient driving experience every single time.

Now, here’s how this tech boosts overall connectivity in the latest CLA.

Smartphone integration and voice commands

I really enjoy how easily the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 keeps me connected during every drive. It offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—my phone syncs automatically as soon as I climb in, without any cables or fuss.

This handy feature saves time, keeps clutter away, and maintains the sleek, neat feel inside the car.

With these handy connectivity features, routine drives to work or even long weekend trips become way more relaxed and fun.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2025 CLA 250 4MATIC packs a solid array of safety tech to keep you and your passengers safe. I was impressed by how Mercedes didn’t skimp on driver aids, giving you peace of mind whether you’re on city streets or highways.

Standard driver-assistance technologies

Mercedes really stepped up their safety game with the 2025 CLA 250—it comes loaded with smart tech to keep you safe around the clock.

• Automatic emergency braking detects vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles in your path, and instantly applies brakes to stop collisions before they happen.
• Blind-spot monitoring watches those hidden spots, alerting you if another vehicle is lingering just out of sight.
• Lane-keeping assist nudges your car smoothly back into its lane if it senses drifting without a turn signal.
• Adaptive cruise control automatically keeps your car at a safe distance from traffic ahead, speeding up or slowing down as needed.
• Traffic sign recognition picks up speed limits and other road signs, clearly displaying them right on your dashboard.
• Rear cross-traffic alert senses approaching cars as you reverse from parking spots, giving timely warnings.
• Driver attention monitoring notices patterns that signal tiredness, gently prompting you to take a break.
• Active parking assist smoothly guides your car into parallel or perpendicular spaces with just a bit of your input.
• Pre-safe sound system releases a quick burst of noise to protect your ears right before an impact.
• A full 360-degree camera shows a complete aerial view of your surroundings, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Optional advanced safety packages

I’ve personally tried out the optional advanced safety features in the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC Coupe—and, honestly, they put this car in a whole other category. The upgrades make driving smoother, safer, and more relaxed with a series of smart protective features:

• Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC keeps a secure distance from vehicles in front, automatically speeding up or slowing down as traffic changes pace.
• Active Lane-Keeping Assist carefully nudges your car back if you start drifting outside your lane without using the turn signal.
• With Active Brake Assist, the car spots hazards ahead, then brakes automatically to prevent or lessen a collision.
• Blind Spot Assist alerts you clearly through dashboard warnings whenever another vehicle enters your blind spots.
• Together, these improved driver supports form a reliable safety cushion, easing stress on highway trips or busy city streets.
• Upgrading safety packages gives you extra confidence and reduces anxiety during everyday drives.
• Driver-assistance systems often react quicker than human instincts, adding another solid layer of protection.
• Intelligent radar and camera sensors continuously check the road ahead for possible dangers.
• Optional safety features let you pick exactly what suits your driving style and routines best.
• These extra features expand on and improve the effective safety equipment already included in every vehicle.

Competitors and Comparison

I stack the CLA 250 against rivals like the Audi A3 and BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe to see how it holds up. These German competitors offer similar luxury features and performance specs, making your buying choice tougher.

Audi A3

The Audi A3 is the main competitor to the Mercedes CLA 250 in the compact luxury car market. I’ve driven both, and the Audi A3 definitely holds its own, with stylish looks and appealing tech inside.

Price-wise, the A3 starts around $46,850—about $4,000 less than the CLA’s $51,000 sticker price. Both vehicles come with similar warranties, offering coverage for 4 years or 50,000 miles.

The CLA does have a slight edge in gas mileage, delivering around 8.2 L/100 km combined, compared with the Audi’s 8.5 L/100 km.

For performance, the two cars feel evenly matched. The A3 provides decent power from its turbocharged engine, though its handling isn’t quite as smooth or polished as the Mercedes CLA 250 4MATIC.

BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe

The BMW 2-Series Coupe isn’t exactly a direct competitor with the Mercedes CLA, but it’s close enough. Starting just shy of $58,000. It has slightly more power than the CLA from a lively 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, churning out 241 horsepower. That’s more than enough pep for daily errands, quick highway merges, or weekend adventures.

Final Thoughts on the CLA 250 4MATIC Coupe

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC Coupe makes a strong case as a favorite in the luxury subcompact market. Sleek styling pairs nicely with sporty performance, giving you comfort and excitement—all in one neat package.

With prices starting close to $44,400, it’s reasonably priced for this class. You’ll appreciate the smooth ride from its 221 horsepower engine and steady grip of all-wheel drive. My own test drives confirmed that the CLA strikes a great balance of sporty fun and everyday convenience.

Plus, the tech features are easy to use and modern. Fuel economy is solid too, with a combined rating of 8.2 L/100 km keeping costs manageable. Compared to competitors like the Audi A3, the CLA offers both value and enjoyment behind the wheel.

Looking for a Mercedes-Benz sedan that’s bigger than the CLA, check out our recent review of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC Review Photo Gallery

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