Mercedes CLA 35 AMG review

Despite wearing a sharper suit, you’ll be pleased to hear that the CLA 35 is similarly priced to its hatchback Mercedes A35 AMG sibling. However, it’s worth noting that both cars sit towards the expensive end of the compact performance car spectrum – the Honda Civic Type R hatchback is significantly cheaper  

Leather seats (heated in the front), climate control, privacy glass and keyless start are all included. However, it’s worth noting that, by the time you’ve added metallic paint and one of the equipment packs, you’ll be looking at a somewhat daunting price list. We’d certainly go for the Premium Pack, though; it gives you the pair of 10.25in screens we mentioned earlier, keyless entry, front and rear parking sensors, an upgraded stereo and a central rear armrest.

Official CO2 emissions are pretty competitive for something this fast and powerful, although fuel economy will take a considerable nosedive if you use the CLA 35's full 302bhp very often

Safety is one of the CLA 35’s strong points, too; the CLA faired extremely well in Euro NCAP's safety tests. To help you to avoid testing its crash-worthiness credentials personally, though, the CLA 35 comes with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance and a driver attention monitor as standard.

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