“It lacks power sluggish off the start then goes, needs either twin turbos with an upgraded exhaust system along with better chip, it needs to be redone as a six cylinder as opposed to its four that it is currently, this was a mistake to buy I plan on buying something else and not returning to Mercedes until it is redone”
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA is a carryover with no major changes. Its powertrain, chassis, safety equipment, styling, and infotainment system remain unchanged from 2017.
About the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA
1st generation (C117; 2014-2019 US), second model year after the 2017 mid-cycle refresh
The AMG CLA is Mercedes-AMG’s compact four-door performance car, combining a coupe-like roofline with five-seat practicality. Its defining strengths are unusually high output from a hand-built turbocharged four-cylinder engine, standard AWD traction, quick dual-clutch shifts, and AMG-tuned suspension, braking, and exhaust hardware. It targets drivers who want sharp acceleration and handling in a smaller, easier-to-place body than Mercedes-AMG’s larger sedans.
The 2018 lineup centers on the CLA 45 4MATIC Coupe, a compact four-door with track-influenced performance hardware and everyday room for five. It pairs a hand-built 375-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, performance-tuned AWD, sport suspension, stronger brakes, and a sport exhaust. Power front seats, dual-zone climate control, and an 8-inch display add everyday comfort and convenience.
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7Spd AMG SPEEDSHIFT |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 375 hp |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 27.1 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |
| Alarm System | |
| Blindspot Sensors | |
| Lane Departure Warning | |
| Park Assist | |
| Rear View Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| LED Headlights | |
| Panorama Moon Roof | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Smartphone Interface | |
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Remote Start | |
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA?
Nothing significant changed for 2018. The AMG CLA carried over from 2017 with the same powertrain, chassis, safety equipment, styling, and infotainment system.
Did the 2018 AMG CLA gain a different engine or more power?
No, the 2018 AMG CLA retained its 375-hp, hand-built 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Its seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and performance-tuned AWD also carried over unchanged.
Did the 2018 AMG CLA receive new safety equipment?
No, its standard safety equipment did not change for 2018. Radar-based Active Brake Assist collision mitigation remained part of the vehicle's safety equipment.
Did the 2018 AMG CLA get a new infotainment system?
No, the infotainment setup carried over unchanged. The 2018 model retained its 8-inch display and existing controls.
Is the 2018 AMG CLA meaningfully different from the 2017 model?
No, there is no major product difference between the 2018 and 2017 AMG CLA. The 2018 model arrived one year after the 2017 mid-cycle update and carried over without significant model-range changes.
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA.
3.9
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA
(11 reviews)