Think of the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake as the stylish overachiever of the family—the one who shows up dressed sharp, ready for a road trip, and still gets the job done. It’s not just a pretty face. It’s a smart, sleek blend of coupe design and wagon utility that brings something fresh to the premium compact class.
So if you’re the kind of person who wants sporty driving with space for your gym bag, dog, or weekend getaway gear—without switching to a bulky SUV—this one’s worth a closer look.
What Is The CLA Shooting Brake, Anyway?
At first glance, you might wonder: is it a coupe? A wagon? Something else entirely? Well, the CLA Shooting Brake takes the swooping roofline of the CLA Coupe and stretches it into a longer rear section.
The result? That signature four-door coupe style up front, with added cargo room in the back. It’s a design that’s bold but functional—like someone wearing a tailored suit with hiking boots underneath.
Overview Of The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake
The CLA Shooting Brake is the cool cousin of the CLA Sedan. It takes the low-slung, coupe-like look of the four-door CLA and adds a wagon-style rear that boosts practicality without sacrificing design. Mercedes calls it a Shooting Brake version, but let’s be honest—it’s an estate car with attitude.
This model hits that sweet spot for people who want space and utility but refuse to give up on aesthetics. It’s for the drivers who want their car to do the school run and still turn heads at the valet.
History And Evolution
The first CLA Shooting Brake made its launch in 2015 as part of Mercedes’ mission to make their lineup more youthful and versatile. It was based on the CLA Sedan, which itself sat just below the Mercedes-Benz C-Class in the brand’s hierarchy.
Now in its second generation, the CLA Shooting Brake has matured. It’s more refined, more tech-loaded, and part of a larger push that includes the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class and Mercedes-Benz G-Class to offer something for everyone—from rugged SUV fans to sleek estate car lovers.
Position In The Mercedes-Benz Lineup
Within Mercedes’ family, the CLA Shooting Brake occupies a unique spot. It’s sleeker than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon, more design-focused than the Mercedes-Benz GLC, and more practical than the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class or S-Class Coupe.
It also reflects Mercedes’ modern strategy: combining performance, efficiency, and EQ Technology with lifestyle-focused models that don’t compromise.
Key Features And Design
One word: sculpted. From its diamond radiator grille to its flared rear wheel arch, the CLA Shooting Brake looks like it was carved by a digital chisel.
LED headlamps, aerodynamic lines, and flush doors all scream sophistication. And the latest technology shows up with seamless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and intuitive MBUX systems.
It’s a vehicle that’s not only stylish but smart too.
Design That Turns Heads
From every angle, the CLA Shooting Brake oozes elegance. The diamond grille, aggressive front bumper, and smooth body lines give it a performance-focused look, especially in AMG Line trim.
Around the back, the tapered tailgate and LED taillights are pure Mercedes flair. You also get sporty touches like integrated exhaust tips and larger brake discs (on AMG versions), adding both style and stopping power.
It’s a car you’ll want to keep clean just so you can see your reflection in it.
Interior: More Than Just Good Looks
Step inside, and it feels like a mini S-Class. The cabin is wrapped in soft-touch materials, MBUX infotainment greets you with voice control (“Hey Mercedes”), and the widescreen cockpit displays everything from speed to Spotify.
Some standout features include:
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Ambient lighting with 64 colors
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Panoramic sunroof (optional)
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Comfortable rear seat space, even for adults
There’s also clever storage throughout, plus a surprisingly roomy boot for a car this sleek. You can pack for a weekend getaway or fold the seats for IKEA hauls—practicality done in style.
Performance: Coupe Soul, Wagon Mind
Depending on the model, the CLA Shooting Brake offers everything from fuel-sipping diesels to high-output AMG versions like the CLA45 AMG. Expect smooth power delivery, sharp steering, and confident handling—even in front-wheel-drive trims.
Available engines include:
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CLA 180 / CLA 200 – perfect for everyday use with good fuel economy
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CLA 220d – great balance of torque and efficiency
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CLA 250 4MATIC – peppier, with all-wheel grip
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CLA35 AMG / CLA45 AMG – full performance, track-ready vibes
It’s also worth mentioning that Mercedes is planning an electric CLA Shooting Brake, following their push into electric vehicles. So if you’re future-focused, keep an eye out.
Technology And Safety
As expected, the CLA Shooting Brake comes packed with driver-assist systems:
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Lane Keep Assist
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Blind Spot Monitoring
Plus, the AMG Sport specification trims get added extras like adaptive dampers, sports seats, and performance exhaust systems. It’s tech that makes your drive smoother and safer—without turning it into a robot on wheels.
Fuel Economy And Practicality
Let’s be honest—this isn’t just about horsepower and pretty headlights. You want something that fits your life, too.
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Fuel economy ranges from 5.1L/100km for the diesels to around 7.8L/100km for the petrol AMG trims.
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The boot holds around 505 liters, expandable with the rear seats down.
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It’s low to the ground, easy to park, and still feels like a Gran Coupe in motion.
And best of all? You don’t have to compromise on space for style.
Practicality And Usability
This is where the Shooting Brake truly shines. With its stretched rear, you get a decent cargo space—more than the CLA Sedan, for sure. It’s easy to load thanks to the low lip and wide opening.
Fold down the rear seats, and you’re looking at enough room for luggage, gear, or even the family pup’s travel crate. It’s practical without being boxy.
Passenger Comfort And Space
Front-seat space is generous, and the back row fits adults comfortably—something many compact models struggle with. Headroom is surprisingly good, despite the sloped roof.
From dual-zone climate to soft materials, every passenger gets the comfort they expect in a premium Mercedes-Benz.
How It Compares: CLA Shooting Brake VS The Competition
Looking at the rivals:
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Audi A5 Sportback – more conservative, less flair
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BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe – sporty but with tighter rear space
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Audi Q3 / BMW X1 – higher ride, but not as sharp around corners
The CLA Shooting Brake lands right in the sweet spot. If you’re choosing between an entry level sedan, a coupe, or a compact SUV, this is the wildcard that checks more boxes than you’d expect.
Comparison With The A-Class
Here’s a question many people ask: CLA Shooting Brake or A-Class Hatchback?
While both offer similar engines and tech, the Shooting Brake has more cargo capacity and a sportier look. The A-Class is more traditional and slightly more affordable.
If style, space, and that coupe-like design matter more to you, the Shooting Brake wins.
Distinctive Differences And Shared Features
Both the A-Class and CLA Shooting Brake share Mercedes’ MBUX system, autonomous braking, and infotainment features. But the Shooting Brake brings a more emotional, design-forward experience.
You’re not just getting a vehicle, you’re getting a statement.
Pros And Cons
Advantages:
- Sleek, standout design
- More cargo space than you’d expect
- Strong engine choices, especially in AMG trims
- Loaded with latest technology
Potential Drawbacks:
- Rear visibility isn’t perfect
- AMG versions can get pricey
- Less rear seat headroom than a standard wagon
Consumer Reviews And Feedback
Drivers love the Shooting Brake’s blend of elegance and everyday function. It’s often praised for its balance between performance and practicality.
Reviews point out its precise steering, comfort on long drives, and surprising usefulness in daily life. The CLA Shooting Brake range is seen as both aspirational and attainable.
Who Should Buy It?
The CLA Shooting Brake is ideal if:
- You want something more unique than a CLA Sedan
- You need more space but hate bulky SUVs
- You crave AMG Sport performance in a versatile body
- You’re moving on from a hot hatch but still want thrills
- You want premium design without C-Class pricing
It’s also a great match for creatives, young families, pet parents, or anyone who needs both style and substance.
Mercedes continues to evolve its Shooting Brake concept with electric, hybrid, and more connected features. With every production update, they bring more of that Mercedes-Benz DNA into smaller, smarter packages.
The CLA Shooting Brake proves that you don’t have to choose between beauty and brains. You can have both—and still fit your groceries in the back.
Final Thoughts
The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake doesn’t try to be everything for everyone—and that’s what makes it so good. It’s niche, yes. But it’s a well-crafted one. You get Mercedes-Benz quality, design that stands out, and a test drive experience that feels like a reward, not just a commute.
In a world of lookalike SUVs and safe choices, this car dares to be different. And for drivers who want to turn every drive into something special—that difference matters.
FAQs
1. What Is The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake?
It’s a unique blend of a coupe and estate car, combining sleek styling with added cargo space and everyday usability—all with Mercedes-Benz luxury.
2. How Is It Different From The CLA Sedan?
While the CLA Sedan is a compact four-door coupe, the Shooting Brake adds a wagon-style rear for more cargo capacity without compromising design.
3. Is The CLA Shooting Brake Available In AMG Trims?
Yes. You can choose from Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 4MATIC or CLA 45 S 4MATIC+—both offering high performance, advanced tech, and dynamic handling.
4. How Much Cargo Space Does It Offer?
The CLA Shooting Brake offers more cargo space than the sedan version, making it ideal for weekend getaways, pets, or daily family use.
5. Does The CLA Shooting Brake Come With Hybrid Or Electric Options?
While current models focus on turbocharged petrol engines, Mercedes is expanding its EQ Technology, so hybrid or electric variants may arrive soon.
6. How Does It Compare To The A-Class Hatchback?
The A-Class is more traditional and slightly cheaper. The CLA Shooting Brake offers more space, a coupe-like shape, and a sportier character.
7. What Kind Of Technology Is Included?
Expect features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MBUX infotainment, autonomous braking, and high-end driver assistance systems.
8. Is It Suitable For Families?
Yes. It fits up to five people comfortably, especially up front, and offers flexible storage with folding rear seats.
9. Is Rear Visibility A Problem?
The coupe-style design slightly limits rear visibility, but advanced camera systems and sensors help with parking and maneuvering.
10. Who Is The Ideal Buyer For The CLA Shooting Brake?
Young professionals, small families, and style-conscious drivers who want a compact luxury car with the practicality of an estate car.