“Do it. You deserve it. It is really exciting to drive and well made. People definitely notice you driving this car.”
2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA is that DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes become standard across the lineup. Otherwise, this is a light-update year rather than a redesign.
About the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA
1st generation CLA (C117, 2014-2019 in the U.S.), pre-refresh year and the last model year before the 2017 styling/tech update.
Mercedes positions the CLA as a style-first compact luxury car: a low, coupe-shaped four-door that gives buyers Mercedes design, turbo power and premium-brand appeal in a smaller footprint than a C-Class. Its main draw is the dramatic shape and sporty feel up front, not rear-seat room. For most shoppers, the CLA is about getting sleek looks, a punchy turbo engine and recognizable Mercedes cabin cues in an easier-to-park everyday car.
The 2016 lineup centers on the CLA 250, a compact luxury sedan with coupe-like styling, a 208-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a seven-speed automatic transmission, and a 7-inch central display. The CLA 250 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive for better traction, while both versions have sport front seats, dual-zone climate control, and driver-alert and collision-warning features.
What changed, by category
Tech
DYNAMIC SELECT replaces the previous drive-mode setup and becomes standard across the CLA lineup.
Structural
The front seats gain adjustable cushion length for added thigh support.
Trim lineup
The CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC is dropped for 2016, leaving the CLA 250 and CLA 250 4MATIC as the remaining versions.
2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd Dbl Clutch | Auto, 7-Spd Dbl Clutch |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 26 mpg | 24 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 38 mpg | 33 mpg |
| Horsepower | 208 hp | 208 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13.1 cu-ft | 13.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 27.1 in | 27.1 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA?
The biggest change is standard DYNAMIC SELECT, which lets the driver alter how the car responds through different driving modes. The front seats also gain adjustable cushion length.
Was the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA redesigned?
No, the 2016 CLA was not redesigned. It keeps the same basic engines, transmissions, and body shape, and it is the final model year before the 2017 styling and technology update.
Did the CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC carry over for 2016?
No, the CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC was dropped from the 2016 lineup. The remaining versions are the front-wheel-drive CLA 250 and the all-wheel-drive CLA 250 4MATIC.
Did the 2016 CLA 250 get a new engine or transmission?
No, the CLA 250 keeps its 208-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and seven-speed automatic transmission. The all-wheel-drive CLA 250 4MATIC also carries over with the same basic powertrain.
How is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA different from the 2015 model?
The 2016 CLA mainly differs through standard DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes and front seats with adjustable cushion length. It also loses the CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC trim, but the CLA 250’s basic design and powertrain remain unchanged.
2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA.
4.2
2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA
(185 reviews)
“I would suggest taking the 45 for a drive. The sport features MUST be tested. The car handles beautifully and snugs every inch of the road ... I'm also a HUGE fan of the red mirror "blind spot light".”
“Buy it. Mercedes is a good, known brand. Just make sure you get a car that has all the options you need/want and you enjoy the way the car looks and drives. Research the models.”