“Vehicle is nice. Lane assist appears to be wired backwards and gives opposite feedback, so skip the option in case the factory miss wires.”
2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA is a carryover with no major changes. Its styling, powertrain, safety equipment, and screen setup remain largely the same as in 2022.
About the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA
2nd generation (2020-2025), pre-refresh year.
The CLA is Mercedes-Benz’s style-first compact sedan, shaped like a 4-door coupe but sized as an entry point to the brand. Mercedes positions it as a small luxury car that still feels dressed up, with a panoramic roof, digital cockpit, voice-control infotainment, and a more upscale cabin than many entry-level rivals. Its main draw is not maximum back-seat space; it is the mix of sharp design, premium ambiance, and everyday usability in a compact footprint.
The CLA 250 is a small luxury sedan with coupe-like styling, front-wheel drive, and a digital-focused cabin. It pairs a 221-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a seven-speed automatic, while the CLA 250 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive. Both versions feature a panoramic glass roof, a 7-inch touchscreen with voice control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and blind-spot monitoring with exit warning.
2023 Mercedes-Benz 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/7G-DCT | Automatic, 7-Spd w/7G-DCT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 24 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 36 mpg | 33 mpg |
| Horsepower | 221 hp | 221 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.9 in | 33.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA compared with the 2022 model?
Nothing significant changed for 2023. The CLA carried over with the same basic styling, engines, transmissions, safety equipment, and screen setup as the 2022 model.
Was the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA redesigned?
No, the 2023 CLA was not redesigned or refreshed. It remained part of the second generation introduced for 2020 and retained the pre-refresh exterior and interior design.
Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA worth choosing over the 2022 model?
There is no major model-year upgrade that makes the 2023 CLA clearly preferable to the 2022. A used-car comparison should focus on condition, mileage, service history, installed equipment, and whether the car has front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Does the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA have all-wheel drive?
The 2023 CLA offers all-wheel drive in the CLA 250 4MATIC. The standard CLA 250 uses front-wheel drive, and both versions have the same 221-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and seven-speed automatic transmission.
What screen setup does the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA have?
The 2023 CLA has standard 7-inch displays, including a 7-inch touchscreen with voice control. Some used examples have the larger optional displays, so the exact setup may differ from car to car.
2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA.
4.3
2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA
(232 reviews)
“The CLA45 is a pleasure to drive - it's styling stands out and the performance is robust and sure to put a smile on your face. The MBUX system is top notch and offers plenty of information and personal customization. The interior styling is outstanding and the ride is comfortable. Build quality and the fit and finish are in keeping with Mercedes reputation for refined automobiles.”
“Love the look and feel of it. The car rides smoothly and also has great technology.”