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2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA is an all-new model and the first CLA sold in the U.S. It launches as a compact four-door coupe with CLA 250, all-wheel-drive CLA 250 4MATIC, and high-performance CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC versions.
About the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA
1st generation (C117), first U.S. model year
Mercedes-Benz positioned the CLA as a style-led compact four-door coupe that brought the brand’s sporty look and cabin feel into a smaller footprint than the C-Class. The big draw was CLS-inspired design, lively turbo power, and a premium interior atmosphere in a city-friendly size. For most shoppers, the CLA’s appeal was simple: it looked dramatic, felt sporty, and offered recognizable Mercedes character without needing a larger sedan.
Mercedes positioned the CLA 250 as a stylish entry point to the brand, with a 208-hp turbo engine, power sport seats, and a 5.8-inch display. The CLA 250 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive for better traction, while the CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC brings a handcrafted 355-hp engine, AMG-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and more aggressive lighting and cabin details.
What changed, by category
Structural
The first-generation CLA debuts in the U.S. as a new compact four-door model positioned below the C-Class.
Styling
The new CLA introduces a low, coupe-like roofline and four-door body inspired by Mercedes’ larger CLS.
Powertrain
Every model uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. The CLA 250 has 208 hp and front-wheel drive, the CLA 250 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive, and the CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC uses a handcrafted 355-hp engine with performance-oriented all-wheel drive.
Safety
Forward-collision warning with brake support and driver-attention monitoring are standard across the lineup from launch.
2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd Dble Clutch | Auto, 7-Spd Dble Clutch | Auto, 7-Spd AMG DCT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 26 mpg | 24 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 38 mpg | 32 mpg | 31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 208 hp | 208 hp | 355 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft | 332 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13.1 cu-ft | 13.1 cu-ft | 13.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 27.1 in | 27.1 in | 27.1 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| HID Headlights | |||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | |||
| LED Tail Lights | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2014 the first year of the Mercedes-Benz CLA?
Yes. The 2014 CLA is the first U.S. model year and the debut of the first-generation C117 CLA-Class.
Which versions of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA were offered?
The 2014 lineup consists of the front-wheel-drive CLA 250, the all-wheel-drive CLA 250 4MATIC, and the high-performance CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC.
Does the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA have all-wheel drive?
Yes. The 2014 CLA 250 4MATIC and CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC have all-wheel drive, while the standard CLA 250 uses front-wheel drive.
How is the 2014 CLA 45 AMG different from the CLA 250?
The 2014 CLA 45 AMG is the performance model. It has a handcrafted 355-hp turbocharged engine, performance-oriented all-wheel drive, an AMG-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and a launch-control system called RACE START; the CLA 250 has 208 hp.
What safety features are standard on the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA?
The 2014 CLA comes standard with radar-based forward-collision warning and brake support, plus a system that monitors driving behavior for signs of drowsiness.
2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA.
4.3
2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA
(111 reviews)
“I would like the rear view or backup camera to be a standard feature in all Mercedes Benz vehicles.”
“I love love love my vehicle! It is the best purchase I've made so far!! It's a beautiful car and an even better performer!”