Auto Guide
2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA
Used

Review and specifications

2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA

The Mercedes-Benz CLA fits above the A-Class and below the C-Class in Mercedes' sedan lineup. It's essentially a more stylish version of the A-Class, but it uses a more powerful 221-hp version of the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine. Like the A220, it has a dual-clutch seven-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration feels a bit hesitant in around-town driving, but there's decent power. Handling is quite nimble, but the ride is overly stiff. The interior is nicely finished and the front seats are supportive, but the rear seat is extremely cramped and hard to access. We found infotainment system quite tricky to use. Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection are standard. Blind spot warning became standard starting in 2021. A fully redesigned 2026 CLA compact sedan will be offered in both electric and hybrid versions. The turbocharged four-cylinder from the previous generation will be sold at the same time.

Market value
$31,713
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
5
View listings Find dealers
Model year 2023
Owner rating Not rated
Reliability Not rated
Data updated December 4, 2025

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
sedan
Drive type
AWD
Transmission
Sequential, 7-speed
Category
Luxury small cars
Generation began
2020

Pricing

Current retail median
$31,713
Retail value range
$26,925 - $42,325
Original MSRP range
$39,350 - $57,800
Trade-in range
$24,320 - $39,420

Ratings

Road test score
65/100

Fuel economy

EPA city
24 MPG
EPA highway
33 MPG
EPA combined
27 MPG
Tested city
17 MPG
Tested highway
42 MPG
Tested overall
27 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,785
Cruising range
365 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
2.7 sec
0-60 mph
6.6 sec
60-0 mph braking
131 ft
Avoidance speed
56 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
185 in
Width
72 in
Height
57 in
Wheelbase
107 in
Weight
3,485 lb
Maximum load
950 lb
Towing capacity
0 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
3 in
Front leg room
43 in
Rear head room
1 in
Rear leg room
27 in
Luggage
2+2+0

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
5/10
Greenhouse gas score
5/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Mercedes-Benz

Most Mercedes-Benzes give their owners industry-leading comfort and technology. The cost of that experience is an expensive base price with expensive options and below-average reliability. The brand produces a wide variety of vehicles for the U.S., including coupes, station wagons, sedans, convertibles, and even two-seat sports cars. Its two- and three-row SUVs that we’ve tested have powerful engines and interiors that are roomy and quiet. Generally, Mercedes-Benz fit and finish, inside and out, is exceptional and helps justify prices. Mercedes-Benz’s EVs range from compact to large three-row SUVs. Across the lineup, controls for the complex climate and infotainment systems aren’t as intuitive as we find in other luxury vehicles. Like most European luxury brands, used Mercedes-Benzes can have expensive out-of-warranty repairs, although Consumer Reports has found used models with above-average reliability.

Vehicle ID: 25583 First published: November 15, 2022 Updated: December 4, 2025

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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