2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA Preview: Detroit Auto Show

When Mercedes-Benz dropped the CLS on the automotive world, it sent design shockwaves that are still reverberating. Now, the automaker is attempting to do it all over again with a new smaller version of that swoopy four-door body style. This latest style maven is called the 2014 CLA, and you better get ready to see them running around all over town… making other cars look ugly.

What’s New for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA:

• Everything. It’s a brand new member of the family.
• See above.

New 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA: Styling and Design

Style and design are the obvious hallmark points of the new CLA. Remember back in 2003 when the CLS set the tone for a new styling direction for sporty sedans? Mercedes-Benz is attempting to do that all over again, albeit on a smaller, more readily approachable scale.

A mixture of concave and convex surfaces create a distinctive look that sets the CLA apart from the crowd. Still, no matter what the automaker says it is not a coupe. Four doors equal sedan, and this is certainly an example that will polarize fans and critics.

New 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA: What’s Under the Hood

Mobile motivation is provided courtesy of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which makes use of a turbocharger to produce 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Energy is sent out to either the front wheels or to all four via the Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. It’s routed there by way of a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

New 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA: Features and Technology

Inside the CLA, Mercedes offers up a plethora of premium features and technology. The now-standard stuff such as satellite radio and an iPod/MP3 interface are offered, and they can be enjoyed through the harman/kardon surround sound audio system. Additional features include heated front seats, a dual-zone climate control, and a central 5.8-inch display screen that allows you to take hold of the COMAND and mbrace2 telematics systems. Need more music options? There is a slot for a SD card, an in-dash six-disc CD changed, and a 10GB drive to store music.

New 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA: What Autobytel Thinks

Mercedes-Benz is attempting to capture some of that magic it created when the CLS first burst forth onto the scene. The German automaker is putting its stylish foot forward, and we think the CLA will be a hit when it arrives in showrooms this September.

It’s an approachable entry-level Mercedes-Benz that offers more extroverted style over the standard C-Class coupe and sedan. We expect to see a ton of these on the road by the middle of 2014.