“Missing basic technology that is standard in most luxury brands, like lane assist and adaptive cruise, surround camera, and telescoping sun visor. I was already injured by the trunk falling down on my head as it was open and I was loading groceries.”
2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA is a carryover with no major changes to the regular CLA 35 or CLA 45. Their engines, styling, safety equipment, and cabin technology remain essentially unchanged from 2022.
About the 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA
2nd generation (C118), final pre-refresh model year; the mid-cycle update arrived for 2024.
The AMG CLA is Mercedes-AMG’s compact four-door performance car, combining a low, coupe-like roofline with four usable doors, turbocharged power, standard AWD, and a technology-focused luxury cabin. It targets drivers who want stronger acceleration and sharper handling than a regular compact luxury sedan without moving to a larger AMG model. The CLA 35 emphasizes everyday speed and usability, while the CLA 45 adds a handcrafted engine and more advanced AWD hardware.
The CLA 35 is the more everyday-focused model, pairing a 302-hp turbo engine with a 7-speed automatic transmission, AWD, and AMG-tuned suspension. The CLA 45 is the more specialized performance version, with a handcrafted 382-hp turbo engine, an 8-speed transmission, and a more advanced AWD system that can divide power between the rear wheels. Both have a 10.25-inch digital gauge display, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a panoramic glass roof, and power-adjustable front sport seats.
2023 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 | 21 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 302 hp | 382 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 354 lb-ft |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA?
Nothing major changed on the regular 2023 AMG CLA 35 or CLA 45. The powertrains, styling, main safety equipment, and cabin technology carry over essentially unchanged from 2022.
Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA a redesign?
No, the 2023 AMG CLA is not a redesign. It is the final model year of the second-generation car before the mid-cycle update arrived for 2024.
How do the 2023 AMG CLA 35 and CLA 45 differ?
The 2023 CLA 35 has a 302-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 7-speed automatic transmission, while the CLA 45 has a handcrafted 382-hp turbocharged four-cylinder and an 8-speed transmission. The CLA 45 also uses a more advanced AWD system that can divide power between the rear wheels.
Does the 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA have AWD?
Yes, both regular 2023 AMG CLA models have AWD. The CLA 35 uses a variable-torque system, while the CLA 45 has a fully variable system that can also distribute power between the rear wheels.
Is 2023 the final AMG CLA model year before the refresh?
Yes, 2023 is the final pre-refresh model year for the second-generation AMG CLA in the US. The mid-cycle styling, powertrain, and technology update followed for 2024.
2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA.
4.3
2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA
(51 reviews)
“I love the design and luxury/sports feel of this vehicle. The ambient lighting is a nice feature that one can customize to their liking. I love the innovative features and overall feel of this vehicle.”
“Not really a family car but it's very nice and sleek. Beautiful on inside and outside.”