@ Audi AG
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
VS

Audi A4 Limousine vs Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake – Performance, range & efficiency compared

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

A4 Limousine @ Audi AG

An In-Depth Comparison: Audi A4 Limousine VS Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake

When it comes to luxury and performance in the automotive world, the Audi A4 Limousine and the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake are two models that capture attention. Each brings its own set of features, aesthetics, and engineering marvels that cater to disparate tastes. In this article, we pit these two German masterpieces against each other to see which one comes out on top.

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Design and Dimensions

The Audi A4 Limousine takes inspiration from its roots with an elegant sedan design that showcases sophistication. It measures 4762 mm in length, 1847 mm in width, and stands 1428 mm tall, offering a classic four-door approach with a trunk capacity of 460 liters. It’s a vehicle aimed at those who prefer a traditional aesthetic blended with modern touches.

On the other hand, the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake embodies a more avant-garde style with its wagon shape. Sporting a slightly more compact length of 4693 mm but maximizing practicality with a trunk capacity up to 505 liters, it appeals to those looking for a blend of sportiness and everyday functionality. The car is slightly wider than the A4 at 1857 mm but slightly shorter in height at 1415 mm, offering a sleek and dynamic profile.

A4 Limousine @ Audi AG

Power and Performance

The Audi A4 Limousine offers a variety of engine configurations, with power outputs ranging from 136 to 265 HP facilitated by a Dual-Clutch Automatic transmission. Its top speed is reported at 250 km/h with an acceleration capability from 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds at its best. The lightest A4 variant weighs in at 1545 kg making it agile yet substantial.

Mercedes has armed the CLA Shooting Brake with a more diverse range of engines, including petrol, diesel, MHEV, and a Plug-in Hybrid configuration. The Shooting Brake’s power reaches up to 421 HP, and it can achieve a similar top speed of 270 km/h. Notably, the hybrid version showcases impressive fuel efficiency, with a consumption rate of just 0.8 L/100 km thanks to its 12.9 kWh battery offering an electric range of 85 km.

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Efficiency is a key selling point for modern consumers, and both models offer a lineup that spans from moderately efficient to high-performing versions. The Audi A4 Limousine boasts CO2 emissions as low as 121 g/km, appealing to environmentally conscious drivers. However, it's important to note its CO2 efficiency classes range from D to F depending on the selected engine.

The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake also aligns with modern eco-standards, particularly its plug-in hybrid version with a CO2 emission of only 17 g/km which places it in the B efficiency class. Its traditional engine variants vary more broadly across the spectrum from D to G classes.

A4 Limousine @ Audi AG

Technological Innovations

Audi has continually impressed with its cutting-edge MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) technology included across its lineup, smoothing engine transitions and improving fuel economy without the need for full hybrid systems.

Conversely, Mercedes extends its tech prowess with the inclusion of full plug-in hybrid capabilities, providing drivers with the flexibility to enjoy electric-only rides for short commutes. The CLA also includes its latest iteration of Mercedes-Benz's MBUX infotainment system, complete with voice control and advanced connectivity features that enhance driver interaction and comfort.

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

A Final Decision

The choice between the Audi A4 Limousine and the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake hinges on personal preference and driving needs. The A4 Limousine caters to those who prioritize a pristine mix of tradition and performance in a sedan form, while the CLA Shooting Brake attracts drivers leaning towards versatility and modern tech features. Both models stand as testaments to German engineering excellence, ensuring satisfaction to any discerning auto enthusiast.

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

A4 Limousine @ Audi AG

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Audi A4 Limousine has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 35800 £, while the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake costs 37700 £. That’s a price difference of around 1906 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake manages with 2.40 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the Audi A4 Limousine with 4.60 L. The difference is about 2.20 L per 100 km.

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake has a distinct edge – offering 421 HP compared to 265 HP. That’s roughly 156 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake is noticeable quicker – completing the sprint in 4.10 s, while the Audi A4 Limousine takes 5.50 s. That’s about 1.40 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake performs minimal better – reaching 270 km/h, while the Audi A4 Limousine tops out at 250 km/h. The difference is around 20 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake pulls somewhat stronger with 500 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm difference.

A4 Limousine @ Audi AG

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake is barely noticeable lighter – 1530 kg compared to 1545 kg. The difference is around 15 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake offers minimal more room – 505 L compared to 460 L. That’s a difference of about 45 L.

When it comes to payload, Audi A4 Limousine slight takes the win – 540 kg compared to 520 kg. That’s a difference of about 20 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake shows itself to be dominates this comparison 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

Audi A4 Limousine

The Audi A4 Limousine combines elegance with performance, showcasing a sleek design that captivates at first glance. Inside, the cabin offers a luxurious atmosphere, filled with high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology to enhance the driving experience. With its responsive handling and comfortable ride, the A4 proves itself as a versatile vehicle, ideal for both daily commuting and long journeys.

details

Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake

5 (1)
rate

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.

details
Audi A4 Limousine
Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake
A4 Limousine @ Audi AG
CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
35800 - 46600 £
Price
37700 - 74700 £
Consumption L/100km
4.6 - 7.4 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
121 - 167 g/km
co2
55 - 206 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 58 L
Fuel tank capacity
35 - 51 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
4
Doors
5
Curb weight
1545 - 1665 kg
Curb weight
1530 - 1775 kg
Trunk capacity
460 L
Trunk capacity
445 - 505 L
Length
4762 mm
Length
4692 - 4695 mm
Width
1847 mm
Width
1834 - 1857 mm
Height
1428 mm
Height
1405 - 1433 mm
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
1310 - 1370 L
Payload
490 - 540 kg
Payload
460 - 520 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
136 - 265 HP
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.5 - 9.5 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.1 - 10.1 s
Max Speed
210 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
203 - 270 km/h
Torque
270 - 400 Nm
Torque
230 - 500 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
100 - 195 kW
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Engine capacity
1968 - 1984 cm3
Engine capacity
1332 - 1991 cm3

General

Model Year
2023
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, D, E, G
Brand
Audi
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Is the Audi A4 Limousine offered with different drivetrains?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive or All-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.