@ BMW Group Press
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
VS

BMW 3 Series Touring vs Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake – Differences & prices compared

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: BMW 3 Series Touring or Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake?

3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press

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.

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

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.

3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press

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.

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

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.

3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press

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.

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

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.

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

3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press

Costs and Efficiency:

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

Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 37700 £, while the BMW 3 Series Touring costs 41100 £. That’s a price difference of around 3323 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake manages with 2.40 L and is therefore barely noticeable more efficient than the BMW 3 Series Touring with 2.50 L. The difference is about 0.10 L per 100 km.

As for range, the BMW 3 Series Touring performs slightly better – achieving up to 97 km, about 13 km more than the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake.

CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the BMW 3 Series Touring has a distinct edge – offering 550 HP compared to 421 HP. That’s roughly 129 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW 3 Series Touring is somewhat quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake takes 4.10 s. That’s about 0.60 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the BMW 3 Series Touring performs minimal 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: BMW 3 Series Touring pulls clearly perceptible stronger with 700 Nm compared to 500 Nm. That’s about 200 Nm difference.

3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press

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 slight lighter – 1530 kg compared to 1650 kg. The difference is around 120 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake offers minimal more room – 505 L compared to 500 L. That’s a difference of about 5 L.

In maximum load capacity, the BMW 3 Series Touring performs minimal better – up to 1510 L, which is about 140 L more than the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake.

Maximum payload is identical – both can carry up to 520 kg.

Who wins the race?

The BMW 3 Series Touring proves to be leaves the rival little chance and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
BMW 3 Series Touring is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £41,100
3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press

BMW 3 Series Touring

  • Engine Type : Diesel MHEV, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 550 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.5 - 10.5 L
  • Electric Range : 91 - 97 km

BMW 3 Series Touring

The BMW 3 Series Touring combines dynamic performance with practical versatility, making it an ideal choice for both spirited drives and everyday use. Its elegant design is complemented by a spacious interior, offering ample room for passengers and luggage alike. Cutting-edge technology enhances the driving experience, ensuring comfort and convenience on every journey.

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
BMW 3 Series Touring
Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake
3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press
CLA Shooting Brake @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
41100 - 131100 £
Price
37700 - 74700 £
Consumption L/100km
2.5 - 10.5 L
Consumption L/100km
2.4 - 9.1 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
91 - 97 km
Electric Range
84 km
Battery Capacity
19.50 kWh
Battery Capacity
12.90 kWh
co2
57 - 238 g/km
co2
55 - 206 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 59 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
1650 - 2025 kg
Curb weight
1530 - 1775 kg
Trunk capacity
410 - 500 L
Trunk capacity
445 - 505 L
Length
4713 - 4801 mm
Length
4692 - 4695 mm
Width
1827 - 1918 mm
Width
1834 - 1857 mm
Height
1440 - 1448 mm
Height
1405 - 1433 mm
Max trunk capacity
1420 - 1510 L
Max trunk capacity
1310 - 1370 L
Payload
405 - 520 kg
Payload
460 - 520 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 550 HP
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 8.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.1 - 10.1 s
Max Speed
213 - 300 km/h
Max Speed
203 - 270 km/h
Torque
250 - 700 Nm
Torque
230 - 500 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
110 - 405 kW
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Engine capacity
1995 - 2998 cm3
Engine capacity
1332 - 1991 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, D, E, G
Brand
BMW
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Is the BMW 3 Series Touring offered with different drivetrains?

The BMW 3 Series Touring is offered with Rear-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.