2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA 35

At an expected price of $48,500, the 2022 AMG CLA 35 is typically a Mercedes-Benz offering that gets adorned with a number of class-leading features. Available as a single-trim option, the compact sedan features a cogent turbocharged unit and is channeled as an AWD variant only. As standard, it gets equipped with specifications like a rearview camera, dual-zone climate control, and rear ventilation ducts. While the base set of features are adequate with all niceties, buyers can also equip the sedan with optional packages, however, they add to the price incessantly.

We Recommend

As mentioned before, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 is available as a single trim variant and consequently, it is our only suggestion. While the base variant without any optional upgrades will suffice all your wants from a sub- $50,000 sedan, we would recommend opting for the AMG Aerodynamic Package. As the name suggests, this package aims at streamlining performance and adds a number of AMG-specific elements like a traditional rear spoiler and black diffuser blades for improved exterior design.

Release Date

Though there has been no official communication from the brand regarding the launch date of the 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35, we expect it to hit the markets just before the start of the fall of 2021, like every other vehicle from the brand. However, with certain restrictions concerning the pandemic, still in place, delays in scheduled timelines can be a possibility, however, you will definitely have your hands-on sedan by the end of this year.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 is highly efficient; it averages 22 MPG in the city, 29 MPG on the highway. Combined, it averages 25 MPG, which allows it to rank higher up in the segment. However, its troubles stem from its underwhelming fuel tank that has the lowest capacity in the segment of 13.5-gallons, which when equated with its efficiency allows for a total range of 297 city and 392 highway miles. Consequently, your frequent fuel stops might burn a hole in your pocket.

The 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia is the most frugal option available in the segment. It averages a combined efficiency of 26 MPG, however, like the Mercedes-AMG, its fuel tank has a bearing on its range. On the other hand, the Infiniti Q50 and Cadillac CT4-V manage similar efficiency of 23 MPG, but the former possesses the largest fuel tank in the segment of 20-gallons. As a result, it remains streets ahead of its competitors when the range is concerned managing 460 miles.

With recent alterations to its design and setup, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 welcomes you with its contemporary aura. The new-fangled design is similar to what can be found in other sedans from the brand. It gets equipped with a number of gizmos and the central trackpad that is used to control the infotainment screen most definitely looks opulent. All around the cabin, you will find soft-touch materials for a plusher outlook, while the central armrest storage, glove compartment, and digital gauge cluster uphold practicality.

Given its subtle driving dynamics, if you ever forget you are onboard an AMG variant, the folks at Mercedes won’t let you. Step inside and you find the AMG badging spread throughout the cabin. But amidst all its quirkiness, the 2022 CLA 35 reeks of comfort and luxury. As standard, you get a flat-bottom steering wheel, front bucket seats, and dual-zone climate control and while the base interior setup is pleasing and catchy, the optional packages that the brand offers make it highly customizable. You get DINAMICA upholstery with red and black stitching as standard, however, one can equip the cabin with leather upholstery as well. The seats feel adequately comfortable and with power adjustability and seat memory functions, the front seats are the place where you’d want to spend most of your time.

However, like always, the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 continues to be a coupe-styled sedan. Consequently, headroom at the back feels constrained, especially for taller occupants. While it can seat five passengers, our recommendation would be to accommodate two passengers on the rear seat. With the third passenger on board, space might feel constrained, especially on longer journeys. The cargo capacity of 11.1 cu.-ft is also not the best in the segment and with a tapering design, the trunk opening also feels smaller than it actually is.

From the table above, it is evident that the 2021 Infiniti Q50 has maximum space for passengers in both rows. Its practicality is further extended by its sizable boot that can have a total volume of 13.5 cubic feet. The Alfa Romeo also leads with its cargo capacity, while the Cadillac has similar space as the Mercedes-AMG but has the lowest cargo-carrying prowess, making it an ill-fit for long journeys.

However, in terms of design and build quality, the Cadillac remains a step ahead of its competitors. While the 2021 Giulia sports an ergonomic cabin as well, the Q50 falls short marginally due to its dated cabin setup. Some standout interior features of the 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 include:

• Optional Heads-up display
• 8-way Power adjustability and lumbar support for front seats
• Optional Heated Front Seats
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel with mounted controls
• Interior Air Filtration
• AMG Performance Seat Package

How intuitive is the 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35’s infotainment system?

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 makes use of the latest version of the MBUX infotainment system. This makes it highly intuitive and user-friendly. The screen resolution is crisp and all menus and options are logically placed. It gets equipped with a 7-inch display screen, which can be controlled either with the central touchpad or through touch gestures. As standard, it hosts Bluetooth connectivity, AM/FM stereo, and HD Radio. Apart from the display unit, the cockpit also encompasses a 7-inch digital gauge cluster that houses the odometer, speedometer, and tachometer amongst other vital information pertaining to the vehicle. Sound duties are perfectly handled by a 12-speaker Burmester sound system and while no upgrade is available, you would seldom feel the need. Some salient infotainment features include:

• Smart Device Integration
• Auxiliary Audio Input
• MP3 Player
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio
• USB Connection C-ports
• Voice control and recognition

Perhaps, we are as excited writing about the design, as enthusiasts were when they first saw the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class take shape. With a total overhaul in 2020, the AMG CLA 35 works on the similar underpinnings of a coupe-sedan but extends its likability with a more free-flowing and sharp design. It now bears an uncanny resemblance with the higher-placed Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class and we have no complaints about it.

Upfront, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 falls in line with the brand’s overall design strategy. It features, what Mercedes likes to call, the shark headlights because of their outright sharpness and striking appearance. You still get the bold grille with the brand’s logo and an AMG badge that complements it. When viewed from the side, the CLA 35 becomes easily distinguishable due to its tapering roofline that merges in seamlessly with the LED taillights, which look rather subtle. It sits on 18-inch alloy wheels and when equipped with the AMG Aerodynamic Package, the sedan features an AMG-specific rear spoiler and bigger air ducts for better performance.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 is the lightest option with a curb weight of 3,505 lbs. It sports a total length of 184.8 inches with a wheelbase of 107.4 inches. It is 72.2 inches wide and 55.3 inches tall, however, its ground clearance is not yet known.

 On the other hand, the Infiniti Q50 is the heaviest weighing almost 400 pounds more. It also sports the longest wheelbase of 112.2 inches, while the Alfa Romeo Giulia is the widest and tallest measuring 73.7 and 57.1 inches, respectively. Though the 2021 Cadillac CT4-V looks the most handsome sedan in the lot, it is rather smaller in dimensions.

Some of the salient exterior features include:

• Lip Rear Spoiler
• Grille moldings with chrome bar
• Heated power-folding mirrors
• Premium paint options
• Body-colored bumpers
• Aluminum wheels

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 has not yet been tested and even its 2021 MY, has not been tested either by the IIHS or NHTSA. However, its extensive list of standard features makes it extremely dependable and reliable. As standard, it comes equipped with features like a blind-spot monitor, traction control, and tire pressure monitoring system. For enhanced reliability, it also features a comprehensive warranty policy that is available for a period of 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes earlier. Some other standout safety features include:

• Anti-braking system
• Rearview Camera
• Stability Control
• Post-collision safety system
• Emergency Braking Preparation
• Daytime Running Lights

2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 vs 2021 Infiniti Q50

The 2021 Infiniti Q50 is a ferocious option in a competitive segment. However, with the introduction of newer and better vehicles, it has lost its old-world charm. With a complete revamp in 2020, the AMG CLA 35 has emerged as a better option. It is considerably quicker and has higher efficiency, but falls short of range. Unlike the Infiniti that has a dated cabin design, the 2022 Mercedes looks modern and contemporary, and with its smooth and refined driving capabilities, and a practical feature load, it is no surprise that the AMG is the better option amongst the two.

2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 vs 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia

The 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia looks prepossessing and is an apt representation of how sporty vehicles should look. It gets better space on the inside for the passengers and its floating dashboard design resonates with practicality and opulence. The build quality is sturdy and its infotainment and safety features like the 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 are extremely comprehensive. Though it is more efficient, it falls short on performance and is the only aspect where the latter leads. While the Mercedes does gain ground when reliability is concerned, we’d bet on the Alfa Romeo for a unique experience.

2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 vs 2021 Cadillac CT4-V

The 2021 Cadillac CT4-V is undoubtedly the most talked-about sedan in the segment. Its power and torque outputs are the highest in the segment and translate into unparalleled performance making it the quickest option. It is closely matched to the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 in terms of space and dimensions but leads in frugality. It looks appealing and has a sharp design at its disposal. However, amongst the two, the AMG CLA 35 is the better daily driver and for its likable and engaging ride quality, we’d prefer it in comparison.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 is a performance sedan disguised as a premium sedan packed with all the luxuries. It gets a jaunty engine option that belts out segment-leading figures. It looks on par with its competitors and has an ergonomic design that looks clutter-free and houses hi-tech features. The infotainment system feels new-fangled and a plethora of safety features, make the Mercedes-AMG, a practical option. However, it falls short on fuel efficiency. It provides high value for the money spent and we find no reason to veto it.