A Mercedes-Benz CLA long-term test report reveals a preference for the Shooting Brake model over the saloon. The reviewer describes the Shooting Brake as more resolved and better planted on the road, with improved rear visibility and practicality. Its more upright rear window enhances visibility, particularly in poor weather, aided by a rear wiper—a practical feature during wet seasons.
Practicality and Design
The Shooting Brake offers a 455-litre boot, expanding to 1,290 litres with the seats folded, compared to the saloon’s 405-litre cargo bay. The reviewer highlights the estate car’s ability to accommodate larger items, such as a dog and a broken fridge-freezer, which the saloon couldn’t manage. The rear seats remain cramped due to the CLA’s large battery, but the Shooting Brake provides a slightly improved sense of space, despite minimal increases in headroom (7mm) and legroom (11mm). The boot floor is free from powertrain intrusions, featuring load-lashing loops for added convenience, though it lacks advanced cargo management systems like those in competitors such as the VW Golf Estate.
Performance and Cost
The Shooting Brake comes with a £2,000 premium over the saloon, although browsing Mercedes UK’s leasing cost calculator reveals that the uplift in monthly payments is negligible. The reviewer tested the CLA 350 model with twin motors, four-wheel drive, and 349bhp, but found the 250+ powertrain more efficient, offering better range despite slightly lower power. The CLA 350’s average efficiency was 3.7 miles per kWh, compared to 4.3 miles per kWh in the 250+ model. The small-battery Shooting Brake claims 318 miles, while the most efficient big-battery version tops 460 miles, making it the longest-range electric wagon in Britain despite a minor range penalty due to increased drag from the taller tailgate.
The reviewer suggests opting for the Shooting Brake body but sticking with the 250+ powertrain for better range and cost savings, noting that the CLA’s weight limits acceleration benefits from the more powerful engine.
Final Impressions
After experiencing the Shooting Brake, the reviewer questions whether they’ll warm to the less spacious and versatile saloon. The Shooting Brake’s practicality, design, and efficiency make it a more appealing choice, despite the higher cost. The CLA’s iPhone app, which alerts owners of collisions and activates on-board cameras, failed to detect a minor accident, leading to the reviewer’s temporary switch to the Shooting Brake and ultimately influencing their preference for this model. The reviewer concludes that while the Shooting Brake costs about £2,000 more, the negligible increase in monthly payments and superior practicality make it the better choice, especially when paired with the more efficient 250+ powertrain, saving a significant £4,000 over the CLA 350.
