Mercedes has released the first official details of its new CLA, following its debut at an exclusive media reception prior to the Detroit Motor Show.
The new CLA, which was leaked online last week, combines the style of the more expensive CLA with the dimensions of the current A-Class, and is designed to fit into the Mercedes range above the A-Class but below the C-Class.
Like the A-Class and its larger brother, the B-Class, the CLA is based on a front-wheel drive platform and is designed to wage war with the Audi A3 and the BMW 1 Series in the premium hatchback sector.
On the outside it's easy to see the influence of the Concept Style Coupe concept, which was unveiled at last year's Beijing Motor Show. On the inside, the interior shares many similarities with the new A-Class, featuring styling cues taken from the SLS supercar.
There'll be a choice of three engines, including a 1.6-litre petrol developing 122bhp, a 2.0-litre 211bhp petrol and a 2.2-litre 170bhp diesel which will return between 62 and 67mpg and emit between 109 and 117g/km of CO2, depending on the specific model.
Dr Dieter Zetsche, Head of Mercedes-Benz cars, said: "The CLA is a car that does not confuse 'middle range' with 'middling quality'. Its sporty design underscores the sporty side of the Mercedes-Benz brand."
Mercedes will begin taking orders for the new CLA in March and although prices have yet to be revealed, expect a starting price of around £25,000.
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