Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake: driven

Does A-Class-based load-lugger bring something new to the estate sector?

Mixing great styling and practicality, the Mercedes A-Class hatch-based CLA Shooting Brake proves that estates don’t have to look boxy and dull. It’s pretty much in a class of one, too, as the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series don’t have estate versions, although it costs about the same as larger wagons such as the A4 Avant and 3 Series.

On the road, many of the A-Class hatchback’s driving traits are apparent, unfortunately including an unsettled and crashy ride. This is particularly apparent with sports suspension, but even the standard-fit comfort set-up jolts occupants over larger urban bumps and potholes. The ride is better on the motorway, even if road and wind noise intrudes.

Composure and control through fast corners lag behind those of the A4 Avant and 3 Series Touring, but they are far from far from sloppy and the steering is well weighted. Sports suspension tightens things up, but is not worth the negative impact on ride.

The CLA 180’s 1.6-litre petrol engine is fairly smooth but needs to be worked hard, while the CLA 200 d’s stronger 2.1-litre diesel is very noisy, as is the more powerful CLA 220 d’s. Across all models, the manual gearbox is notchy and imprecise, while the optional seven-speed auto is rather bit slow-witted and jerky.

Inside, styling and finish are virtually indistinguishable from those of the cheaper A-Class. The smart dash features a ‘floating’ 7.0-inch iPad-style display, and doesn’t feel too cheap or plastiky, but the other materials can’t match up to the Audi or BMW’s. A rotary dial between the front seats controls the infotainment set-up, yet the less-than-logical on-screen menus can be frustrating, and even distracting. Also, sat-nav and DAB cost extra on most specs, while the 8.0in Comand infotainment is also an option.

The driving position suffers from fiddly seat adjustment (unless you spec electric seats) and awkwardly positioned pedals that can force you to sit at an uncomfortable angle. Standard-fit parking sensors help alleviate the issue of poor rear visibility.

While the cabin can accommodate four six-footers, space lags behind that of the A4 Avant and 3 Series Touring. The CLA’s dramatic swooping rear roofline also hinders rear access, and it results in a fairly narrow opening to the comparatively shallow boot. Even so, the load area is more practical than in its CLA saloon stablemate. The 60/40-split seatbacks fold pretty much flat via levers beside the rear headrests, and a powered tailgate is standard fit on all models.

Private buyers are better off with the entry-level CLA 180, as it’s fairly economical for a petrol model and more reasonably priced. The diesel CLA 200 d with optional auto would better suit company car drivers, due to BIK tax benefits from its lower CO2 emissions. The CLA 220 d and CLA 250 are too costly to recommend.

Base Sport trim is well enough specced as standard, with 18in alloys, cruise control, faux leather seats, dual-zone climate control, keyless start and that powered tailgate. Higher trims cost considerably more. Safety aids include seven airbags and attention assist, while blindspot monitoring is on the options list. There is no automatic emergency braking to stop you from accidently hitting the car in front, though.

The sleek Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake looks alluring, and proves that estates needn’t be boxy, but rivals are more practical and better to drive. Ultimately, the Audi A4 Avant is a much better buy, being roomier for both passengers and luggage. If you can forgo the posh badge, the Skoda Superb Estate is even less expensive and more spacious. That’s the one we’d go for.

Sarah Bradley is a writer for WhatCar.