Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake VS VW Golf Variant – Specs, Efficiency & Price Comparison

Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake

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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VW Golf Variant

The VW Golf Variant represents a seamless blend of practicality and style, catering to drivers who require extra space without compromising on aesthetics. Its refined design and spacious interior make it an ideal choice for families and individuals with an active lifestyle. With advanced technology and a smooth driving experience, this estate car continues to impress within its class.

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A Clash of Practicality: Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake vs. VW Golf Variant

In the world of compact wagons, two models stand out for their unique blend of practicality, design, and performance — the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake and the VW Golf Variant. Both cars offer versatility and comfort for everyday driving, but they do so with different philosophies and features. This article takes a close look at their technical specifications and innovations to help potential buyers make an informed decision.

Performance and Engine Options

The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake boasts an expansive range of engine options, including petrol MHEV (mild hybrid), diesel, and plug-in hybrid engines. Power outputs range from a modest 116 HP to a massive 421 HP in the top AMG variant. It offers various 0-100 km/h acceleration times, from a leisurely 10.1 seconds to an exhilarating 4.1 seconds for the AMG model, catering to diverse preferences.

Conversely, the VW Golf Variant also features a selection of engines, with outputs from 116 HP to 333 HP. Its 0-100 km/h times are competitive but generally slower than most CLA variants, peaking at about 8.4 seconds for the most powerful configuration. Both vehicles utilize front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive, enhancing their engineering versatility.

Fuel Efficiency and Eco-Friendly Innovations

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the VW Golf Variant claims a slight advantage with lower consumption figures. It achieves as little as 4.4 L/100 km, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers. The CLA Shooting Brake, while offering impressive efficiency with figures starting from 5.0 L/100 km, does not surpass its VW counterpart in this regard.

On the hybrid front, the CLA Shooting Brake offers a plug-in hybrid variant with an electric range of up to 85 km, paired with a battery capacity of 12.9 kWh — perfect for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. The Golf also provides mild hybrid options that improve fuel economy but lacks the plug-in variant to cater to the growing eco-conscious market.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside the cabin, both models prioritize comfort and technology, but each does so with its own flair. The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake stands out with its luxurious interior and cutting-edge technology. The inclusion of a dual-display infotainment setup, complete with a digital cockpit and a large center touchscreen, gives it a modern and upscale feel.

The VW Golf Variant, on the other hand, has a reputation for a user-friendly interface and practical design. It offers spacious seating for five, accompanied by a trunk capacity of 611 liters — one of the largest in its class. While it may not exude the same luxury as the CLA, the Golf does provide a functional and well-thought-out interior with quality materials.

Dimensions and Practicality

Size plays a crucial role in the practicality of any wagon. The CLA Shooting Brake comes in at 4695 mm in length, 1834 mm in width, and a height of 1433 mm, providing a sleek and aerodynamic look. However, its trunk space, ranging from 445 to 505 liters depending on the configuration, is outshone by that of the Golf Variant.

The Golf Variant, measuring 4631 mm in length and 1789 mm in width, offers a much more generous trunk space at 611 liters, making it a better option for families or those needing extra cargo capacity. Both vehicles provide ample headroom and legroom for passengers, ensuring comfort on longer journeys.

Safety Features and Ratings

Both the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake and VW Golf Variant are equipped with an array of safety features designed to protect passengers and improve overall driving experience. The CLA is known for its advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance, providing an added layer of safety.

The Golf Variant also scores high on safety, with numerous available driver-aid technologies, although it may not match the advanced offerings of the Mercedes. Both cars have received commendable ratings in safety tests, confirming their commitment to occupant protection.

Conclusion: Which Wagon Is Right for You?

Choosing between the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake and the VW Golf Variant ultimately hinges on your personal needs and preferences. If you prioritize luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology, the CLA may be your best bet. However, if practicality, fuel efficiency, and spaciousness are at the top of your list, the Golf Variant deserves serious consideration.

Both vehicles showcase the strengths of their manufacturers, offering compelling options for different demographics in the compact wagon market. Whether you lean towards the elegance of Mercedes-Benz or the iconic practicality of Volkswagen, you can't go wrong with either choice.