Mercedes-Benz CLA and CLA Shooting Brake facelifts revealed

Mercedes-Benz has shown the facelifted Mercedes-Benz CLA and CLA Shooting Brake at the New York motor show.

The mid-life changes to the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake are predictably subtle, extending to mild exterior styling tweaks, revised interior trims, updated connectivity options and a wider range of engine choices. These include an updated version of the range-topping CLA 45 4Matic’s turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine delivering an added 21bhp at 376bhp.

The 2016-model-year CLA is visually different from the existing three-year-old model by a new grille insert featuring diamond-shaped elements and a re-profiled front bumper with either a silver, black or chrome highlight.  The rear-end styling has also been lightly updated with a new trim strip between the tailpipes, which are now integrated into the rear bumper.

Buyers have the choice of optional LED headlights, a hands-free opening function for the boot (CLA saloon) or tailgate (CLA Shooting Brake), five different optional 18in alloy wheel designs as well as a new blue metallic exterior colour.

Inside, the CLA receives revised instruments with red needles, a new range of seat upholstery, updated trim elements and the chrome plated controls introduced to the facelifted A-Class in 2015.  The optional 8.0in infotainment screen has also been enhanced with what Mercedes describes as a “slimmer appearance”.

Apple Carplay and Android Auto integration

The CLA also receives enhanced smartphone integration via Apple’s CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto as part of its extensive list of options. This allows selected functions to be operated via the steering wheel or head unit controls. Also available is a new Universal Telephony option that includes a universal smartphone cradle and two charging cables with lightning or micro USB connectors.