2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 vs Audi A3 Comparison

2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 vs 2016 Audi A3

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The 2016 lineup of high performance sports coupes and sedans are lighting up the streets. They're fast and fun to drive. Yet their surprisingly affordable. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 Coupe and the Audi A3 are both at the top of the class.

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 is also available as in 4MATIC�� all-wheel drive, which gives the CLA250 improved handling. The 2016 Audi A3 is available in three different trims: the Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige package. This is actually an American and Canadian sedan version of the 2016 A3 two-door and the sports back coupe that are available in Europe.

Performance

Comparing the engines and performance factors of these vehicles, Mercedes-Benz offers a powerful yet economical turbocharged 2.0 liter inline 4 engine. It produces 208 horsepower and 258 lb. ft. of torque, and the power in transferred to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters. It goes zero to 60 in 6.9 seconds. The CLA250 4MATIC® model is all about enhanced control. The 4MATIC® all-wheel drive drivetrain automatically adjusts the engine's torque across the four wheels of the car to maximize their efficiency by 50 percent.

Audi offers two engine types for this car: the 1.8 liter and 2.0 liter TFSI. The 1.8 liter version of the Audi A3 is a bit outclassed in this category. It only achieves 170 horsepower. To compete the Mercedes-Benz CLA250, you have to upgrade the base car to the larger engine.

Design

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 has a delightfully deceptive design. The exterior lines are bold, curvaceous and sharp, like a coupe. Yet, the interior is roomier than some sedans and has comfortable seating for five. It has an available panorama roof and leather high-backed racing front seats. It's the best of both worlds. Now, the 2016 Audi A3 does have 17-inch alloy wheels and leather-covered steering wheel also. Yet it doesn't have the panoramic roof or a sleek color display like the CLA250.

Safety

The safety features of the Audi A3 are more focused on electronic assistance for the driver. It has an onboard electronic stability program that is aimed at improving the handling of the vehicle and a servotronic power steering system that adjusts the tension of the wheel according to the speed you're traveling. Yet the Mercedes-Benz CLA250 trumps the Audi with driver assisted systems, as well. The CLA250 has available blind side warning and systems that sense if you've strayed from your driving lane or even nodded off one too many times. One of the most innovative features is the radar-assisted sensors on that engage automatic braking to prevent a collision.

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 Coupe is surely at the top of its class. Yet, the best way to know for sure is to get behind the wheel of one and test drive it for yourself. Be sure to head over to your local Mercedes-Benz dealership today and our knowledgeable sales and service team will help you compare the best models.

* EPA estimated MPG may vary by transmission, trim and individual driving behavior.