For Even at the entry point of the range, this model gets alloy wheels and climate control. Its 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine brings near-50mpg official combined economy.
Against You pay for the economy with slovenly performance and too much clatter from under the bonnet. Plus, the pedals are heavily offset and transmit vibrations from the rattly engine.
If maximising miles between fill-ups is your goal, this might suit. It’ll be a noisy, slow and uninspiring drive between those stops, though. Save the extra for a 220 CDI instead.
If you can't bring yourself to accept the A-Class as the entry-level model in the Mercedes range, then the CLC might be just the thing. Its predecessor, the C-Class Sports Coupe, was a hugely popular model in the UK, and the CLC is a refreshed, re-badged version of that car.
Don't be fooled by the new C-Class-esque looks, the CLC is based on the underpinnings of the old car. That means it’s unlikely to have you excited about driving it. What it does offer is a decent amount of space, sensible equipment levels and fair pricing – for a car wearing a premium badge, at least.
Where you're likely to be disappointed is in the feel and look of the interior: non-premium rivals better the CLC for interior ambience and classiness. It's not a bad car, just an expensive hatchback that's outclassed by not just its upmarket rivals, but most of the mainstream contenders in its class, too.
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