This summer, Mercedes-Benz complements the compact range of cars with the new CLA Coupe, which stands out with intelligence in its class: MBUX Interior Assist recognizing operational requirements from driver gestures, augmented reality improves navigation and perception of indirect voice commands, while ENERGIZING COACH offers a personalized comfort system. Aerodynamic functions have also been improved and new features were introduced in Intelligent Drive driving assistance package. The design, however, emphasizes the coupe's extended shape.
The major changes compared to the predecessor will affect the exterior, interior and control system of the new CLA coupe. Since the launch of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class it is the MBUX or Mercedes-Benz User Experience system that has made revolution in the way of driving and communicating with the car. The new CLA coupe and its equipment are the next level of intelligent interior assistance for the compact class. It works naturally by recognizing gestures, but this is not the only feature that makes CLA smarter than other cars.
“In Europe, CLA customers are among the newest Mercedes-Benz customers. More than 75 % of European customers who previously travelled with the CLA Coupe or CLA Shooting Brake, chose Mercedes-Benz also as their next car. The new CLA model is even sportier than its predecessor. Together with new operating systems, it sets new criteria for the entire class. During the first year, the new CLA will also be available as Edition 1. In terms of both exterior and interior, this limited release model has many visual accents that emphasize its exclusivity. The new CLA will be produced at the Kecskemet factory in Hungary”, explains SIA Domenikss wholesale and marketing manager Vitalijs Rochans.
Aerodynamic improvements
The new CLA's wide track width (63 mm in addition to the front and 55 mm to the rear as compared to its predecessor) and the lower centre of gravity are the two main features that give it the most sporty driving qualities among all the new-generation Mercedes-Benz compact models. Multi-lever axle at the rear reduce noise and vibration, while the stabilizer bar with larger diameter reduces the body tilt. The wheels and tires have been aerodynamically optimized – both for conventional disc and tire combinations and for so-called aerodynamic wheels, which have been completely redesigned to achieve the best aerodynamic effect.
A year since first presentation: MBUX continues to learn
One year ago, MBUX thrilled the automotive world in its first presentation in Las Vegas: it offered a powerful computer, excellent screens and graphics, a customizable display, navigation with augmented reality, software that can learn, and "Hey Mercedes" as keyword for voice control. Currently the new MBUX Interior Assist voice control function is able to provide increasingly diverse thematic responses to each country-specific content, respond to increasingly complex issues, no longer gets hurt when other passengers talk, and only answers the commands of the person who last said “Hey Mercedes” to activate the system. Thanks to innovative technology, MBUX is currently supporting drivers by simplifying various comfort and MBUX functions, such as operating in non-contact mode and operating in both sunlight and complete darkness.
Intelligent Drive: functions from S-Class
The new CLA coupe is equipped with the latest driving assistance or driver support, thus providing the highest level of active safety in this segment and using functions borrowed from the S-Class. For the first time, in some situations CLA is able to drive partially autonomously, so follow the traffic situation carefully. Advanced cameras and radar systems allow you to see up to 500 meters ahead. Map and navigation data are also being used for CLA assistance functions. For example, the Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC can provide support to the driver along the route and easily adjust the speed when approaching bends, intersections, or roundabouts. There is also an Active Emergency Stop Assist and an intuitively understandable Active Lane Change Assist that can alert the driver by using a pulse on the steering wheel, if car is accidentally leaving the lane with a speed of 60 to 200 km/h. If a car crosses a continuous line, the assistance system is able to bring it back into the lane using one-sided braking. In the case of a discontinued line, such interference occurs only if there is a danger of a collision with the vehicle in the adjacent lane or when entering the opposite lane.
ENERGIZING Comfort Control: comfort while driving
The ENERGIZING Comfort Control combines various comfort systems of the car – air conditioning system, seat functions (heater, ventilation, massage), lighting and music ambience, as well as provides a special well-being, which is adapted to the client's mood and needs. Monitoring the physical condition of a person, such as a stress level or sleep quality, makes it possible to optimize the accuracy of recommendations thanks to the Mercedes-Benz vivoactive® 3 smart watch or another compatible Garmin® wearable device. They are designed to bring passengers comfort and relaxation even during difficult or monotonous trips.
Design: pure emotions
The new CLA intrigues with its clean, enticing design and sets new standards. It stands out for its ideal proportions: a long, stretched bonnet, compact glazing, exposed wheel arches and our typical GT rear with a strong, distinctive 'cola bottle shoulder'. Like in A-Class, the designers of the CLA Coupe have completely abandoned the cover over the control panel. Thus, the basic structure of the panel wings extends from one front door to the other without a visible break. The lower part of the widescreen display, on the other hand, is visually separated from the base section of the control panel by the recess and appears to be "flying" on the background of the control panel section.
