2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA scores facelift, more hybrid power, and a tech nip/tuck

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the 2023 update for the current-generation CLA ‘four-door coupe’ and its Shooting Brake wagon variant, which brings with it new tech additions and some design changes to refresh the CLA’s looks.

Similar to an update for the A-Class in October 2022, the CLA will gain LED ‘high performance’ headlights, with a redesigned front and rear bumper, fresh wheels, and updates to both the interior trim and its multimedia system.

Across the range, the new generation of Mercedes-Benz MBUX is now standard and adds new display schemes, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and increased functionality for voice activation. An optional Burmester speaker system is also available.

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A 7.0-inch and 10.25-inch twin-screen display are standard for the instrument display and central screen respectively, though having both as 10.25-inch screens is optional. 

A turbocharged 1.3-litre petrol engine version of the model, the CLA200 with 120kW and 270Nm, as well as one with a larger 2.0-litre engine, the CLA250 with 165kW and 350Nm, are currently on sale in pre-facelift in Australia, so expect to see these carry over.

The AMG versions, CLA35 and CLA45, also gain similar design updates, tech refreshes, as well as new 18-inch wheel designs and optional 19-inch alloys for the CLA35, while the CLA45 S has 19s as standard.

Specific to the CLA35 is the addition of a second-generation starter-generator to mildly hybridise the drivetrain and enable a temporary 10kW boost.

Both CLA35 and 45 S use turbocharged 2.0-litre AMG engines, with the former boasting 225kW and 400Nm, while the 45 S has AMG’s beastly M139 engine with 310kW and 500Nm, allowing a 0-100km/h sprint of 4.1 seconds.

Across the range, the new generation of Mercedes-Benz MBUX is now standard.

The latter will also be available with a Street Style edition, also announced previously for the AMG A45 S, which includes a matt grey exterior colour highlighted by bright orange trim elements and the addition of the AMG Aerodynamics Package, the AMG Night Package I and II.

If Australia’s previous model range is to be continued for the CLA, expect to see the CLA200 and 250 arrive alongside the two AMG versions when the brand’s local arm confirms timing, likely later this year.