The outstanding Cd value of 0.23 (CLA 180) for the new CLA sets new benchmarks for aerodynamics in series production vehicles and makes itself felt - for positive reasons - through reduced fuel consumption. At a speed of just 60 km/h the wind resistance can be sufficiently high to have a significant effect on consumption. The CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition [1] achieves the lowest Cd value of all for series production vehicles, with a Cd value of 0.22.

The low lift coefficient at the front and rear axle ensure agile handling, good driving stability at higher speed ranges as well as a secure, stable ride, even in sidewind. The outstanding aerodynamics also make themselves felt inside the vehicle where wind noise is reduced to a level unmatched in this category. All of which goes to show once again that, rather than being an end in themselves, good aerodynamic characteristics have lasting benefits in many different areas.

Significant savings can also come from a series of small contributions. With the aim of making the new CLA-Class more fuel efficient, the Mercedes-Benz engineers examined all the main components with regard to their energy usage and found ways of getting them to work more economically.

Overview of efficient energy management measures:

In order to allow the driver to check, and where appropriate modify, his driving style for efficiency, the ECO display gives information on how economic his driving is and helps him to deploy a more fuel-efficient driving style, taking into account actual and selected constraints.

The ECO start/stop function reduces fuel consumption and emissions by switching off the engine automatically when the car comes to a stop (e.g. in traffic jams or at traffic lights). If a vehicle is equipped with the ECO start/stop function, a starter/generator is installed in place of the starter. Intelligent control electronics allow the starter/generator to supply the electrical energy for the vehicle’s electrical system and, in starter mode, the torque required to start the engine.

The combination of an aerodynamic shape, low-consumption and low-emission engines and demand-actuated ancillary components make the CLA economical and environmentally friendly. The CLA 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition[1], in addition to its top aerodynamics Cd rating of 0.22, has further measures deployed to reduce consumption, which at the same time reduce CO2 emissions to on average below 119 grammes per kilometre.

The consumption-reducing measures at a glance:

Great importance was attached to using materials in the new CLA that are low on emissions and recyclable, right from the early development stages. The new CLA achieves a materials recycling level of 85 percent and recoverability of 95 percent according to the ISO 22628 calculation model.

Examples of environmentally materials and processes include: