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2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA is that blind-spot monitoring with an exit warning became standard. Otherwise, this is a light equipment update following the full 2020 redesign.
About the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA
2nd generation (introduced for 2020), second model year; minor standard-equipment update before the later mid-cycle refresh.
The AMG CLA is Mercedes-AMG’s compact four-door performance coupe, combining a low, swept-back shape with everyday seating, a digital cockpit, turbocharged power, and standard AWD. Its core appeal is sports-car-like acceleration and handling in a smaller luxury car that is practical enough for daily commuting. The CLA 35 emphasizes balanced daily performance, while the CLA 45 pushes the same idea toward sharper, more specialized performance.
The 2021 lineup consists of two compact four-door performance models with AWD and a pair of 10.25-inch dashboard screens. The CLA 35 uses a 302-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the more performance-focused CLA 45 has a handcrafted 382-hp engine and an AWD system that can direct power between the rear wheels to improve cornering.
What changed, by category
Safety
Blind Spot Assist with Exit Warning became standard on both the CLA 35 and CLA 45.
Tech
The 64-color ambient cabin lighting system with illuminated dashboard vents became standard on both models. Heated front seats also became standard on the CLA 45.
2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 7-Spd w/AMG SPEEDSHIFT Dual-Clutch | Automatic, 8-Spd w/AMG SPEEDSHIFT Dual-Clutch |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Horsepower | 302 hp | 382 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 354 lb-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.9 in | 33.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA?
The biggest change is standard blind-spot monitoring with an exit warning on both AMG CLA models. The exit warning helps alert occupants to approaching traffic when they are about to open a door.
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA significantly different from the 2020 model?
No. The 2021 AMG CLA is a light equipment update rather than a redesign or mechanical refresh. Its engines, transmissions, AWD systems, suspension design, exterior styling, and dual-screen dashboard carry over without significant changes.
Did the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA receive any engine or AWD changes?
No. The CLA 35 retains its 302-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and variable-torque AWD, while the CLA 45 keeps its handcrafted 382-hp engine and more advanced AWD system with rear-wheel power distribution for sharper cornering.
What cabin equipment became standard on the 2021 AMG CLA?
The 64-color ambient lighting system with illuminated dashboard vents became standard on both AMG CLA models. Heated front seats also became standard on the CLA 45.
How do the 2021 AMG CLA 35 and CLA 45 differ?
The CLA 35 is the more balanced everyday performance model, with 302 horsepower and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The more performance-focused CLA 45 has 382 horsepower, an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, and an AWD system that can vary power between the rear wheels to help it corner more sharply.
2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA.
4.3
2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA
(46 reviews)
“The interior is amazing it's so safe to drive with the technology in it. Exterior looks fast which is a plus. Rims, ambient lighting, great performance.”
“There are too many control options. It's hard to remember them. But the car is beautiful, comfortable, and runs great.”