2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250: Review, Specs, And More

by Alex Braham 52 views

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 is a sleek and stylish entry-level luxury car that brings the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand to a more accessible price point. But does it live up to the hype? Let's dive into a comprehensive review, covering everything from performance and features to comfort and overall value. For those looking to get into a luxury vehicle without breaking the bank, the CLA 250 presents an intriguing option, blending Mercedes-Benz's renowned engineering with a youthful, sporty design. This review aims to provide a balanced perspective, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of this model year. So, buckle up as we explore what makes the 2016 CLA 250 a compelling choice, and whether it truly delivers on the promise of affordable luxury.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 doesn't disappoint. Under the hood lies a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that churns out 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for both city driving and highway cruising, making it a versatile choice for various driving conditions. The CLA 250's acceleration is brisk, allowing it to go from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.8 seconds. This responsiveness is perfect for navigating traffic and merging onto highways with confidence. The turbocharged engine ensures that power is readily available, eliminating any sense of lag or hesitation. Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the CLA 250 delivers smooth and quick gear changes. This transmission enhances the driving experience, providing seamless transitions between gears and contributing to the car's overall efficiency. Drivers will appreciate the responsiveness of the transmission, which adapts to driving styles and conditions. For those seeking a more engaging driving experience, the CLA 250 also offers paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. These allow drivers to manually control gear changes, adding a sporty element to the driving dynamics. Whether you're cruising on the open road or navigating tight city streets, the CLA 250's performance is both enjoyable and practical.

Handling is another area where the CLA 250 shines. The car's suspension is tuned to provide a balance between comfort and agility. It soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road while still offering precise and responsive handling. The steering is well-weighted, providing good feedback and making it easy to place the car exactly where you want it. In corners, the CLA 250 feels planted and stable, inspiring confidence in the driver. The car's compact size and nimble handling make it a joy to drive on winding roads. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend road trip, the CLA 250's handling capabilities will enhance your driving experience. The combination of a well-tuned suspension and responsive steering makes it a standout in its class. Overall, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 offers a compelling blend of performance and handling that makes it a fun and engaging car to drive.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250, you'll find a cabin that exudes modern luxury. The interior design is sleek and sophisticated, with high-quality materials and attention to detail evident throughout. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making them ideal for long drives. The standard upholstery is MB-Tex, a synthetic leather that looks and feels like the real thing. However, leather upholstery is available as an option for those seeking an even more luxurious feel. The front seats offer ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable driving experience for both the driver and passenger. The rear seats, however, can be a bit cramped for taller passengers, particularly on longer journeys. The CLA 250's dashboard is well-organized and easy to use. The center console features a large infotainment screen that displays navigation, audio, and other vehicle information. The screen is controlled by a rotary knob located on the center console, which is intuitive and easy to operate. The CLA 250 also comes standard with a variety of convenience features, including automatic climate control, power windows and locks, and a rearview camera. These features enhance the overall driving experience and make the CLA 250 a pleasure to own.

In terms of features, the 2016 CLA 250 offers a generous array of standard equipment. This includes a 7-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. Optional features include a larger 8-inch display, a premium Harman Kardon sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. The CLA 250 also offers a range of advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features enhance safety and provide added peace of mind for drivers. The CLA 250's technology package adds even more convenience and entertainment features, making it a well-rounded and modern vehicle. Whether you're looking for comfort, convenience, or advanced technology, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 has something to offer. The combination of luxurious interior design and a comprehensive list of features makes it a standout in its class. Overall, the interior and features of the 2016 CLA 250 provide a premium and enjoyable driving experience.

Technology and Safety

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 is equipped with a range of advanced technology and safety features designed to enhance the driving experience and provide peace of mind. The centerpiece of the CLA 250's technology offerings is its infotainment system, which includes a 7-inch display screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. The system is controlled by a rotary knob located on the center console, making it easy to navigate menus and access various functions. Optional upgrades include a larger 8-inch display, which provides a clearer and more detailed view of information. The CLA 250 also offers smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to seamlessly connect their smartphones and access their favorite apps. The available Harman Kardon sound system delivers premium audio quality, enhancing the overall entertainment experience. In terms of safety, the CLA 250 comes standard with a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle when backing up. This helps to prevent accidents and makes parking easier.

Additional safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Optional safety features include blind-spot monitoring, which alerts the driver when a vehicle is in their blind spot, and lane-keeping assist, which helps to keep the car in its lane. Adaptive cruise control is also available, which automatically adjusts the car's speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. These advanced safety features provide an extra layer of protection and can help to prevent accidents. The 2016 CLA 250 has earned good safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further demonstrating its commitment to safety. The combination of advanced technology and comprehensive safety features makes the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 a safe and enjoyable car to drive. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, you can have confidence in the CLA 250's ability to keep you and your passengers safe.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many car buyers, and the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 delivers respectable numbers in this area. The EPA estimates that the CLA 250 achieves 26 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, resulting in a combined rating of 30 mpg. These figures are competitive for the class and make the CLA 250 a fuel-efficient choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel. The CLA 250's fuel efficiency is due in part to its turbocharged four-cylinder engine and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The engine is designed to deliver power efficiently, while the transmission optimizes gear changes to maximize fuel economy. Additionally, the CLA 250 features an ECO mode, which further enhances fuel efficiency by adjusting engine and transmission settings. Drivers can activate ECO mode to prioritize fuel economy over performance. In real-world driving conditions, the CLA 250's fuel economy may vary depending on driving habits and conditions. However, most drivers can expect to achieve fuel economy figures that are close to the EPA estimates. The CLA 250's fuel efficiency helps to reduce running costs and makes it an economical choice for those who drive frequently.

Compared to other cars in its class, the 2016 CLA 250 offers competitive fuel economy. Some competitors may offer slightly better fuel economy, while others may offer slightly worse. However, the CLA 250 strikes a good balance between fuel efficiency and performance. Overall, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 offers respectable fuel economy that makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a fuel-efficient luxury car. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, you can have confidence in the CLA 250's ability to deliver good fuel economy without sacrificing performance. The combination of fuel efficiency and performance makes the CLA 250 a well-rounded and practical choice.

Pros and Cons

To provide a balanced perspective, let's summarize the pros and cons of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250.

Pros:

  • Stylish and sporty design
  • Peppy turbocharged engine
  • Precise handling
  • Luxurious interior
  • Generous array of features
  • Respectable fuel economy

Cons:

  • Cramped rear seats
  • Base model can feel a bit spartan
  • Infotainment system can be confusing to use

Overall, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 is a compelling entry-level luxury car that offers a lot for the money. It's stylish, fun to drive, and packed with features. However, it's important to be aware of its limitations, such as the cramped rear seats and potentially confusing infotainment system. If you're looking for a luxurious and sporty car that won't break the bank, the CLA 250 is definitely worth considering.

Overall Value

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 presents a strong value proposition for those seeking an entry-level luxury vehicle. It combines the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand with a more accessible price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The CLA 250 offers a compelling blend of style, performance, and features, making it a well-rounded choice in its class. While the base model may feel a bit spartan, the addition of optional features can elevate the CLA 250 to a truly luxurious level. The CLA 250's fuel efficiency helps to reduce running costs, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel. The car's resale value is also strong, which is an important consideration for many buyers. Overall, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 offers excellent value for the money.

However, it's important to consider the competition when evaluating the CLA 250's value. Other entry-level luxury cars, such as the Audi A3 and BMW 2 Series, offer similar levels of performance and features. It's worth comparing these models to the CLA 250 to see which one best meets your needs and preferences. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not the CLA 250 represents good value depends on individual priorities and circumstances. However, for those seeking a stylish, fun-to-drive, and well-equipped luxury car at an affordable price, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 is definitely worth a look. The combination of brand prestige, performance, features, and fuel efficiency makes it a compelling choice in the entry-level luxury segment.