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Audi A4 Avant vs Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake – Which model is better for everyday use?

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi A4 Avant or Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake?

A4 Avant @ Audi AG

The market for luxury wagons has grown increasingly competitive, with two of the most notable contenders being the Audi A4 Avant and the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake. Both vehicles offer a unique blend of performance, style, and practicality, but they cater to slightly different customer preferences. In this comparison, we delve into their technical specifications, innovations, and overall driving experience to help buyers make an informed decision.

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Design and Practicality

Aesthetically, both the Audi A4 Avant and the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake present striking designs. The A4 Avant is characterized by its sharp lines and sophisticated silhouette, making it a perfect option for those seeking a timeless look. It boasts a trunk capacity of 495 liters, providing ample storage for all your needs.

On the other hand, the CLA Shooting Brake offers a sportier stance with its coupe-like roofline, blending style with functionality. With a maximum trunk capacity of 505 liters, it slightly edges out the A4 in terms of practicality, making it ideal for those aiming to balance a sporty drive with functional space.

A4 Avant @ Audi AG

Performance and Engine Options

When it comes to engine diversity, both manufacturers offer a range of powertrains tailored to various driving styles. The Audi A4 Avant comes equipped with options varying from efficient 136 HP diesel engines to robust 265 HP petrol engines. Its diesel MHEV models provide excellent fuel efficiency, achieving as low as 4.8 L/100km. Noteworthy is the A4's capability to reach 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, delivering a thrilling yet efficient driving experience.

The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake, in contrast, features a selection of powertrains, including petrol, diesel, and a plugin hybrid with an impressive electric range of 85 km. The performance variants can reach up to 421 HP for a heart-pounding 0-100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds. While the CLA is less fuel-efficient in its petrol variants (with figures around 7 L/100km), it does offer options that are aimed at eco-conscious drivers.

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Transmission and Driving Experience

Both the A4 Avant and CLA Shooting Brake utilize automatic transmission systems, with the A4's dual-clutch automatic providing quick shifts and seamless acceleration. The A4 is available with both all-wheel and front-wheel drive options, ensuring versatile handling across different driving conditions.

In comparison, the CLA Shooting Brake offers a similar automatic transmission with a focus on delivering a sporty driving experience, particularly in its higher-powered variants. The front-wheel drive layout tends to offer a more agile drive, contributing to its sportier appeal.

A4 Avant @ Audi AG

Technological Innovations

Both models incorporate high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology in their interiors. The Audi A4 Avant comes with the latest MMI infotainment system, boasting a high-resolution touchscreen, navigation, and a multitude of connectivity options, including smartphone integration.

The CLA Shooting Brake, however, pushes forward with its MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system, which features an advanced voice command capability and a sleek interface. The ambient lighting and premium materials enhance the overall luxury feel of the vehicle. Moreover, the CLA's integration of semi-autonomous driving features stands out in its class, offering a glimpse into the future of driving.

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Safety Features

Safety is paramount in luxury vehicles, and both the Audi A4 Avant and Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake excel in this department. The A4 is equipped with an adaptive cruise control system, lane assist, and a comprehensive suite of airbags, ensuring peace of mind on the road.

The CLA Shooting Brake raises the bar with its advanced driver-assistance systems, including active brake assist and blind-spot monitoring. The vehicle's structural integrity and crash safety ratings also offer buyers an assurance of safety during their travels.

A4 Avant @ Audi AG

Conclusion: Which One to Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between the Audi A4 Avant and the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake boils down to personal preferences. The A4 Avant is perfect for those who value practicality, high-level performance, and classic elegance. Meanwhile, the CLA Shooting Brake appeals to buyers looking for a sportier drive coupled with cutting-edge technology and design flair.

In this luxury segment, both vehicles promise impressive capabilities, leaving consumers with a tough decision. Whether you lean towards the sophisticated reliability of the Audi or the avant-garde excitement of the Mercedes, both options offer a remarkable driving experience in the luxury wagon market.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Audi A4 Avant has a minimal advantage in terms of price – it starts at 37200 £, while the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake costs 37700 £. That’s a price difference of around 492 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake manages with 2.40 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the Audi A4 Avant with 4.80 L. The difference is about 2.40 L per 100 km.

A4 Avant @ Audi AG

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Audi A4 Avant has a to a small extent edge – offering 470 HP compared to 421 HP. That’s roughly 49 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi A4 Avant is to a small extent quicker – completing the sprint in 3.70 s, while the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake takes 4.10 s. That’s about 0.40 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Audi A4 Avant performs barely noticeable better – reaching 300 km/h, while the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake tops out at 270 km/h. The difference is around 30 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Audi A4 Avant pulls somewhat stronger with 600 Nm compared to 500 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm difference.

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake is barely noticeable lighter – 1530 kg compared to 1595 kg. The difference is around 65 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake offers hardly perceptible more room – 505 L compared to 495 L. That’s a difference of about 10 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Audi A4 Avant performs barely noticeable better – up to 1495 L, which is about 125 L more than the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake.

When it comes to payload, Audi A4 Avant barely noticeable takes the win – 565 kg compared to 520 kg. That’s a difference of about 45 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake shows itself to be leaves the rival little chance and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £37,700
CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake

  • Engine Type : Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 421 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.4 - 9.1 L
  • Electric Range : 84 km
details

Audi A4 Avant

The Audi A4 Avant blends elegant, understated styling with practical estate versatility, making it a polished choice for drivers who want both poise and generous cargo space. Inside, the cabin feels premium and tech-forward while the composed driving manners turn routine journeys into a quietly satisfying experience—exactly the sensible indulgence buyers will appreciate.

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Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake

5 (1)
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The Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake artfully combines the sleek aesthetics of a coupé with the practicality of an estate. Its interior boasts luxurious materials and cutting-edge technology, providing a sophisticated driving experience. With a focus on style and functionality, this model is designed to appeal to both the modern family and the discerning individual.

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Costs and Consumption
Price
37200 - 122500 £
Price
37700 - 74700 £
Consumption L/100km
4.8 - 9.7 L
Consumption L/100km
2.4 - 9.1 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
84 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
12.90 kWh
co2
126 - 220 g/km
co2
55 - 206 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 58 L
Fuel tank capacity
35 - 51 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Estate
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1595 - 1820 kg
Curb weight
1530 - 1775 kg
Trunk capacity
495 L
Trunk capacity
445 - 505 L
Length
4750 - 4782 mm
Length
4692 - 4695 mm
Width
1842 - 1866 mm
Width
1834 - 1857 mm
Height
1428 - 1493 mm
Height
1405 - 1433 mm
Max trunk capacity
1495 L
Max trunk capacity
1310 - 1370 L
Payload
510 - 565 kg
Payload
460 - 520 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Petrol
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
136 - 470 HP
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.7 - 9.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.1 - 10.1 s
Max Speed
210 - 300 km/h
Max Speed
203 - 270 km/h
Torque
270 - 600 Nm
Torque
230 - 500 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
100 - 346 kW
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Engine capacity
1968 - 2894 cm3
Engine capacity
1332 - 1991 cm3

General
Model Year
2023 - 2024
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, F, D, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, D, E, G
Brand
Audi
Brand
Mercedes-Benz

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What drivetrain options does the Audi A4 Avant have?

The Audi A4 Avant is offered with All-Wheel Drive or Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.