Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class is an A-Class saloon

Back in 2012, Mercedes-Benz showed off the Concept Style Coupe, a saloon version of the A-Class that was so bonkers that few believed the company would actually build the thing. But build it they have and Mercedes-Benz has confirmed the CLA-Class will be going into production this year.

If you like the A-Class but hate the idea of hatchbacks, the CLA could be the car for you.

Relatively little has been lost in the transition from concept design to real life production car. The lower air intakes and the wing mirrors are far more sensible than those on the concept car, but the bonnet of the CLA-Class has the same ‘powerdome’ creases and its grille packs more bling than your average gangster rapper.

Although the CLA-Class might no look particularly sleek, Mercedes-Benz claism it’s actually the most aerodynamic production car ever made, thanks to a Cd drag co-efficient value of just 0.23. Mercedes-Benz is considering a hyper slippery CLA 180 BlueEfficiency model with a drag coefficient of 0.22. Not even the Toyota Prius, which has a drag value of 0.25, comes close.

Three CLA-Class models have been confirmed. The entry-level CLA 180 uses a 1.6-litre, 122hp petrol engine that accelerates from 0-62mph in 9.3 seconds and returns between 50.4- 52.3mpg depending on wheel size. The faster CLA 250 packs a 2-litre, 211hp engine, does 0-60mph in 6.7 seconds, maxes out at 149mph and returns between 45.6 and 46.3mpg. A CLA 220 CDI diesel is also available. This 2.1-litre direct injection unit produces 170hp and boasts fuel economy of 62.8- 67.3mpg.

UK pricing and exact specifications are as yet unconfirmed, but expect the CLA-Class to be available to order from March 2013. Check out the pictures below to get a closer look.