BMW VS Mercedes

In the competitive world of premium wagons, the BMW 3er Touring and the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake stand out with their distinctive characters and performance attributes. The 3er Touring offers a perfect blend of sporty handling and practicality, making it an ideal choice for driving enthusiasts who need versatility, while the CLA Shooting Brake impresses with its sleek design and luxurious finishes, catering to a more style-conscious audience. Ultimately, both vehicles provide an exhilarating driving experience, but your choice may come down to whether you prioritize dynamic performance or elegant aesthetics.

BMW

Mercedes

When it comes to comparing premium wagons, the BMW 3er Touring and the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake are two names that frequently come to mind. Each combines practicality, style, and performance in unique ways, making the choice between them an exciting challenge for automotive enthusiasts. In this comparison, we explore their technical aspects, innovations, and overall driving experience.

Design & Aesthetics

The BMW 3er Touring stands tall with its robust build and iconic kidney grille, maintaining a sporty yet elegant look that is synonymous with BMW. Its dimensions, measuring around 4714 mm in length and 1827 mm in width, provide ample space while ensuring comfort for five passengers. Additionally, with a trunk capacity of 500 liters, it adds practicality to its striking design.

On the other hand, the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake offers a sleeker silhouette, marked by its coupe-like roofline that adds a touch of elegance. Slightly smaller than the 3er Touring, at 4695 mm in length and a width of 1834 mm, the CLA compensates with a versatile trunk space ranging from 485 to 505 liters, ensuring it remains a compelling choice in the subcompact luxury wagon market.

Powertrains & Performance

Under the hood, the 3er Touring offers a wide range of engine options, including Diesel MHEV, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, and Plugin Hybrid configurations. The diesel options start at a respectable 150 HP and can reach up to a stunning 374 HP in the M Performance version. Notably, the Touring can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 3.6 seconds, showcasing its sporty credentials. The power delivery is smooth with choices of rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, paired with a precise automatic gearbox.

In contrast, the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake also offers a diverse engine lineup, with options including Petrol MHEV and Plugin Hybrids. Power outputs range from a modest 116 HP to an exhilarating 421 HP in the AMG version. The CLA demonstrates impressive performance as well, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds for the AMG variant. The range of front-wheel and all-wheel drive options adds versatility for various driving preferences.

Fuel Efficiency & Emissions

Efficiency is crucial in today's automotive landscape, and the BMW 3er Touring performs commendably, yielding fuel consumption figures as low as 5.1 L/100 km in the diesel category. With a CO2 efficiency class ranging from D to G, this model is better suited for eco-conscious drivers seeking balance between performance and sustainability.

The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake, with a potential fuel consumption of as low as 5.0 L/100 km, demonstrates its efficiency credentials as well. Among its models, it achieves CO2 emissions as low as 132 g/km, placing it in a similar environmental efficiency range than its BMW counterpart.

Technological Innovations

Both vehicles are equipped with modern technology that enhances safety and driving enjoyment. The BMW 3er Touring is fitted with the latest BMW iDrive system, offering advanced connectivity, navigation, and a range of driver-assist features including lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control.

On the flip side, the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake integrates the MBUX system, featuring voice control and augmented reality navigation that is touted as one of the most intuitive on the market. Both systems cater to tech-savvy drivers looking for a seamless driving experience.

Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between the BMW 3er Touring and the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake ultimately boils down to personal preference. The BMW leans towards those who value performance and space, while the Mercedes caters to those seeking a more stylish profile with cutting-edge technology.

Regardless of your choice, both vehicles excel in delivering a premium automotive experience packed with performance, practicality, and modern innovations, ensuring that either will meet the demands of discerning drivers and families alike.