The CLA is in for a substantial makeover, transitioning to Mercedes’ new design language and benefiting from new technologies and engines.
Some of the later will come from Mercedes-AMG, which is prepping at least two different models, the CLA 35 and CLA 45.
The former is believed to have been scooped while testing on the streets of Germany. The prototype is well camouflaged, but the shape of the exhaust tips along with the rear diffuser suggest that this might be the first ever Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 caught out in the wild.
Also Read: 2019 Mercedes A-Class Sedan Vs CLA: Just How Different Are They?
The car will use the 2.0-liter four-banger from the A35 hot hatch. The engine produces 306 PS (301 hp / 225 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque, and is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that channels output to both axles. The A35 hatchback goes from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.7 seconds and maxes out at 250 km/h (155 mph), so expect similar performance from the four-door coupe model.
A more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine will be used in the range-topping member of the series, the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45. This will arrive probably next year and boast more than 400 horses.
As for the rest of the second-gen CLA family, it will be offered in two body styles, a four-door coupe and a Shooting Brake. The latter was snapped earlier this week and retains the signature sloping roofline, albeit a bit more raised towards the rear to improve headroom for passengers as well as boot capacity.