Mercedes-Benz CLA: Beauty with some brawn

New Mercedes-Benz CLA strikes a stylish stance, but lacks the oomph to be completely convincing

The Mercedes-Benz CLA200, with its 1,332cc engine, delivers reasonable pace with minimal fuss when unhurried.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA200, with its 1,332cc engine, delivers reasonable pace with minimal fuss when unhurried. ST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG
The Mercedes-Benz CLA200, with its 1,332cc engine, delivers reasonable pace with minimal fuss when unhurried.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA200, with its 1,332cc engine, delivers reasonable pace with minimal fuss when unhurried. ST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG
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While it looks a lot sportier than its predecessor, the new Mercedes-Benz CLA is still not a driving sensation.

But in a world where people increasingly want more show than go, the entry-level coupe-like four-door wearing the three-pointed star has a ready audience.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on August 17, 2019, with the headline Mercedes-Benz CLA: Beauty with some brawn. Subscribe