You might ask, “Is it really fair to pit a Volkswagen against a Mercedes-Benz? Wouldn’t that be a one-sided duel?” Well, yes. As it turns out, one car is clearly more inviting than the other, but it’s the less expensive Volkswagen CC that provides the more luxurious and engaging driving experience.
Each of these compact luxury sedans was designed to blend the sleek, stylish look of a two-door coupe with some of the convenience and practicality of a four-door sedan. And true, each is visually appealing in its own distinctive way. But the sloping rooflines and high window sills that help give the cars their eye-catching look also hurt their practicality. The rear seats in both are cramped and uncomfortable, it’s difficult to climb in and out, and rearward visibility is very limited, with large blind spots.
Where the CC really succeeds is from the driver’s seat. With agile handling and a taut, supple, and composed ride, the CC is fun to drive. Its 200-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides ample power, although the initial takeoff can be a bit uneven. Fuel economy of 26 mpg overall is commendable.
The CLA is fairly agile, with good cornering grip, but it lacks the CC’s balance and sporty character. Uncharacteristic for a Mercedes, the ride is too stiff, with short, quick motions making the car feel jittery. Unlike the CC, the CLA’s turbo four-cylinder feels a bit lethargic in everyday driving, but it ultimately posts good acceleration figures. At 28 mpg overall, it’s pretty frugal at the pump. Overall, the CLA falls short on providing a well-rounded driving experience, and its tight quarters count against it. At $36,500 it may be affordable for a Mercedes but is not a good value for what you get.
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