Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA is a sedan that earns a Carivo score of 7.2/10 — rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.1/10, while Reliability at 6.2/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional sedan — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 6.2/10 for reliability, this sedan trails its segment. That doesn't rule it out, but go in with eyes open on running costs. Safety lands at 8.1/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
With 7.1/10 for performance, this is a car tuned for daily driving rather than excitement — perfectly capable on the commute, unremarkable on a back road. On technology it rates 8.1/10: a modern, well-integrated suite that compares favorably with anything at this price point.
Priced from $34,467–$45,399, 25 MPG, seating 5, the Mercedes-Benz CLA sits in the mid-market bracket of the sedan segment. At 7.0/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 7 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA sits in the middle of the field. Until its reliability scores improve, stronger options exist at this price. Worth a look if it fits a specific need; otherwise use our compare tool against the segment leaders first.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA ranks #896 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 32% of the segment. Its 7.2/10 overall score is 0.3 points below the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $34,467 starting price is about 25% above the segment's median of $27,664.
Smart-money pick: the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA scores 7.2/10 — within striking distance of the 2019's 7.2 — and starts roughly $3,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Below-average reliability data — factor in potential repair and maintenance costs
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Common Questions — 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA
Is the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA reliable?
We rate the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA's reliability 6.2/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA worth buying?
It scores 7.2/10 overall, ranking #896 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 32% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA cost?
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA starts at $34,467 and ranges up to $45,399 across trims (MSRP when new). At 25 MPG, expect roughly $2,100/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Mercedes-Benz CLA
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More Mercedes-Benz Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Mercedes-Benz models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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