Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake 2014: Review, Specs, And More

Hey guys! Let's dive into the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake 2014. This stylish wagon combines the sleek looks of a coupe with the practicality of an estate. If you're in the market for a car that stands out from the crowd while still offering plenty of space, this might just be the one for you. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about the 2014 CLA Shooting Brake, from its design and performance to its interior and overall driving experience. We'll also touch on some of the common questions and concerns people have about this model, so stick around!

Exterior Design: Style Meets Functionality

The exterior design of the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake 2014 is where this car truly shines. It takes the already eye-catching design of the CLA coupe and adds a dash of practicality with its extended roofline. The result is a car that’s both sporty and elegant, making it a head-turner on the road. The swooping lines and aggressive stance give it a modern, dynamic appearance, while the elongated rear provides ample cargo space. Let’s break down some key elements:

• Front Fascia: The front end features the signature Mercedes-Benz grille with the large three-pointed star emblem. The headlights are sleek and angular, often equipped with LED daytime running lights that add to its contemporary look. The aggressive bumper design hints at the car's sporty intentions.
• Side Profile: From the side, the Shooting Brake’s elongated roofline is the most noticeable feature. This design element not only enhances the car's aesthetic appeal but also significantly increases cargo capacity compared to the coupe version. The frameless doors are a stylish touch that adds to the overall premium feel.
• Rear Design: The rear of the CLA Shooting Brake is just as striking as the front. The LED taillights wrap around the corners, giving the car a wide and planted stance. The sloping rear window and integrated spoiler contribute to its aerodynamic profile. The rear bumper often incorporates dual exhaust outlets, adding a sporty touch.

Overall, the exterior design of the 2014 CLA Shooting Brake is a masterclass in blending style and practicality. It’s a car that looks great from every angle, whether you’re cruising down the highway or parked in your driveway. The attention to detail and the cohesive design language make it a standout in its class.

Interior and Comfort: A Premium Experience

Stepping inside the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake 2014, you're greeted with a premium interior that’s both stylish and comfortable. The cabin design mirrors the exterior’s sporty and modern aesthetic, with high-quality materials and a focus on driver ergonomics. Let's explore what makes the interior of this car a great place to be:

• Dashboard and Layout: The dashboard is cleanly designed with a sweeping layout that integrates the infotainment screen. The air vents are a standout feature, with their turbine-like design adding a touch of sportiness. The controls are logically placed and easy to reach, ensuring a user-friendly experience.
• Materials and Build Quality: Mercedes-Benz is known for its attention to detail, and the CLA Shooting Brake is no exception. The interior is clad in high-quality materials, including leather upholstery, brushed aluminum trim, and soft-touch plastics. The build quality is excellent, with tight panel gaps and a solid, well-constructed feel.
• Seating and Comfort: The front seats are supportive and comfortable, perfect for long drives. They offer ample adjustment options, allowing you to find the ideal driving position. The rear seats are also reasonably comfortable, although taller passengers might find headroom a bit limited due to the sloping roofline. However, the Shooting Brake configuration does offer more rear headroom compared to the standard CLA coupe.
• Infotainment System: The 2014 CLA Shooting Brake comes equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system. It features a central display screen, controlled via a rotary dial and touchpad on the center console. The system includes navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration, providing a seamless and connected driving experience.
• Cargo Space: One of the main advantages of the Shooting Brake over the coupe is its increased cargo capacity. The elongated roofline allows for a larger trunk, making it more practical for carrying luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The rear seats can also be folded down to further expand the cargo area, providing ample space for larger items.

In summary, the interior and comfort of the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake 2014 provide a premium experience that’s both stylish and practical. The high-quality materials, comfortable seats, and user-friendly infotainment system make it a great place to spend time, whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a road trip. The added cargo space is a significant bonus, making it a versatile choice for those who need both style and functionality.

Performance and Handling: Sporty and Engaging

The performance and handling of the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake 2014 are designed to deliver a sporty and engaging driving experience. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, this car offers a blend of agility, power, and refinement. Let's take a closer look at what makes the driving experience of the CLA Shooting Brake so enjoyable:

• Engine Options: The 2014 CLA Shooting Brake is available with a range of engine options, including both petrol and diesel variants. The petrol engines typically include a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, offering varying levels of power and performance. The diesel engines are known for their fuel efficiency and torque, making them ideal for long-distance driving. The specific engine options may vary depending on the market.
• Transmission: Most models come with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which provides smooth and quick gear changes. This transmission enhances both the car's performance and fuel efficiency. Some models may also be available with a manual transmission, catering to drivers who prefer a more hands-on driving experience.
• Handling and Agility: The CLA Shooting Brake's chassis is tuned for sporty handling, with a firm suspension and responsive steering. This allows the car to feel nimble and agile, making it fun to drive on winding roads. The car's relatively compact size also contributes to its maneuverability in urban environments.
• Ride Comfort: Despite its sporty handling, the CLA Shooting Brake still offers a comfortable ride. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and composed driving experience. However, some drivers may find the ride a bit firm, especially on models with larger wheels and sportier suspension setups.
• AMG Models: For those seeking even greater performance, the CLA Shooting Brake is also available in AMG variants. These models feature more powerful engines, upgraded suspension, and performance-oriented features, delivering a thrilling driving experience. The AMG models are known for their blistering acceleration, precise handling, and aggressive styling.

In summary, the performance and handling of the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake 2014 strike a great balance between sportiness and comfort. The range of engine options, responsive transmission, and well-tuned chassis make it an enjoyable car to drive in various conditions. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency or outright performance, there’s likely a CLA Shooting Brake variant that suits your needs.

Technology and Features: Modern Conveniences

The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake 2014 is equipped with a range of technology and features designed to enhance your driving experience. From infotainment and connectivity to safety and driver assistance systems, this car offers a host of modern conveniences. Let's delve into some of the key tech features you can expect:

• Infotainment System: As mentioned earlier, the CLA Shooting Brake comes with Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system. This system includes a central display screen, controlled via a rotary dial and touchpad on the center console. It offers features such as navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration (including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in later models), and access to various vehicle settings.
• Connectivity: The car provides various connectivity options, including USB ports, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. This allows you to stay connected on the go, whether you need to make calls, stream music, or access online services.
• Audio System: The CLA Shooting Brake typically comes with a high-quality audio system, often featuring multiple speakers and a powerful amplifier. Some models may offer an upgraded sound system, such as a Harman Kardon or Burmester system, for an even more immersive audio experience.
• Driver Assistance Systems: The 2014 CLA Shooting Brake is available with a range of driver assistance systems designed to enhance safety and convenience. These may include features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and parking assist.
• Safety Features: In terms of safety, the CLA Shooting Brake is equipped with multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and other standard safety features. It also features Mercedes-Benz’s Pre-Safe system, which can detect an impending collision and automatically prepare the car and its occupants for impact.
• Convenience Features: Other notable convenience features include automatic climate control, power-adjustable seats, a panoramic sunroof (available on some models), and keyless entry and start. These features add to the overall comfort and convenience of the driving experience.

Overall, the technology and features in the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake 2014 provide a modern and connected driving experience. The infotainment system is user-friendly, the driver assistance systems enhance safety, and the various convenience features make everyday driving more enjoyable. This car seamlessly integrates technology into the driving experience, making it a compelling choice for tech-savvy buyers.

Reliability and Maintenance: What to Expect

When considering the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake 2014, it’s important to factor in reliability and maintenance. Like any car, the CLA Shooting Brake has its strengths and weaknesses in this area. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect in terms of reliability and maintenance costs:

• Reliability: The Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake 2014 generally has a good reliability record, but like all cars, it’s not without its potential issues. Some common problems reported by owners include issues with the infotainment system, electrical glitches, and occasional transmission problems. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to ensuring the long-term reliability of the car.
• Maintenance Costs: Mercedes-Benz vehicles typically have higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury brands. This is due to the higher cost of parts and the specialized knowledge required to service these vehicles. Routine maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, brake replacements, and tire rotations, can be more expensive than those for a more mainstream car.
• Service Intervals: Mercedes-Benz recommends specific service intervals for the CLA Shooting Brake, typically around every 10,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. Following these service intervals is essential for maintaining the car’s warranty and ensuring its optimal performance.
• Warranty: The 2014 CLA Shooting Brake originally came with a factory warranty that covered certain repairs for a specified period. If you’re purchasing a used model, it’s worth checking whether any of the original warranty remains or if an extended warranty is available.
• Common Issues: Some of the common issues reported by CLA owners include problems with the dual-clutch transmission, particularly with jerky shifting or delayed engagement. Other potential issues include problems with the turbocharger, fuel injectors, and electrical components. Keeping up with regular maintenance and addressing any issues promptly can help prevent more significant problems down the road.
• Preventative Maintenance: To minimize the risk of breakdowns and expensive repairs, it’s crucial to perform regular preventative maintenance. This includes checking fluid levels, inspecting belts and hoses, replacing filters, and keeping the car clean and well-maintained.

In summary, the reliability and maintenance of the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake 2014 are generally good, but potential owners should be aware of the higher maintenance costs associated with luxury vehicles. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and preventative care are essential for ensuring the long-term reliability of this stylish wagon.

Is the 2014 Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake Right for You?

The 2014 Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake is a stylish and practical wagon that offers a unique blend of sporty design and versatility. But is it the right car for you? Let’s consider some key factors to help you decide:

• Style and Design: If you’re looking for a car that stands out from the crowd, the CLA Shooting Brake certainly delivers. Its sleek lines, aggressive stance, and elongated roofline give it a distinctive and eye-catching appearance. If you value style and design, this car is a strong contender.
• Practicality: The Shooting Brake configuration offers more cargo space than the CLA coupe, making it a practical choice for those who need extra room for luggage, groceries, or other items. The rear seats can also be folded down to further expand the cargo area, providing ample space for larger loads. If practicality is a priority, the CLA Shooting Brake is a good option.
• Performance: The CLA Shooting Brake offers a range of engine options, from fuel-efficient diesels to powerful petrol engines. The sporty handling and responsive transmission make it an enjoyable car to drive, whether you’re commuting to work or cruising on the highway. If you value performance and driving dynamics, this car won’t disappoint.
• Budget: Mercedes-Benz vehicles typically come with a higher price tag than non-luxury brands, both in terms of purchase price and maintenance costs. If you’re on a tight budget, the CLA Shooting Brake might not be the most affordable option. However, if you’re willing to invest in a premium vehicle, it offers excellent value for the money.
• Reliability and Maintenance: While the CLA Shooting Brake generally has a good reliability record, it’s essential to factor in the higher maintenance costs associated with luxury vehicles. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of the car. If you’re prepared to invest in proper maintenance, the CLA Shooting Brake can be a reliable choice.

Ultimately, the decision of whether the 2014 Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake is right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize style, practicality, performance, and a premium driving experience, this car is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to factor in the higher maintenance costs and potential reliability issues before making your final decision.