It’s safe to say that, on the whole, Riverside County drivers demand forceful performance, smooth handling, and up-to-the-minute technology from their luxury vehicles. On the surface, the 2017 Audi A3 Sedan seemingly epitomizes these must-have traits. However, when you compare the Audi A3 Sedan to other top competitors, such as the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA Coupe, you’ll notice it lacks in several crucial areas. True to Mercedes-Benz fashion, the CLA dominates in its segment with efficient power and tech-savviness. Check out our detailed comparison below to see what makes the CLA the superior pick!
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| 2017 Audi A3 Sedan | VS | 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA Coupe |
|---|---|---|
| 186 hp | Horsepower | 208 hp |
| 221 lb-ft | Torque | 258 lb-ft |
| 24/31 mpg | City/Highway MPG | 24/34 mpg |
| Optional | Multi-Mode Drive Program | Standard |
| Feature Not Offered | 8-inch Display Screen | Standard |
| Feature Not Offered | Driver Attention Monitor | Standard |
The 2017 Audi A3 – from the Premium to the Prestige – is powered by a 2.0L turbo inline-4 engine that dishes out 186 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. Efficient in a variety of driving situations, the A3 earns an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city/31 mpg highway rating. Despite its cool and collected power, however, the Audi A3 can’t match the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA Coupe’s stellar performance.
Also furnished with a 2.0L turbo inline-4 engine, the entry-level CLA 250 generates 208 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. While it matches the A3 in city fuel-efficiency, the CLA 250 is a born highway cruiser, offering an EPA-estimated 34 mpg highway rating. Power buffs can also upgrade to the top-tier AMG® CLA 45 Coupe and enjoy over twice as much horsepower than what the entire A3 lineup has to offer.
Available as an option in the Sport Package, Audi Drive Select allows you to modify throttle sensitivity, steering, and shifting, depending on the driving condition. The 2017 CLA comes standard with a similar program: DYNAMIC SELECT®. This driver-customizable system includes five modes: ECO, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual. Whether you’re running daily errands around town, or cruising through Riverside County, DYNAMIC SELECT® gives you plenty of performance options to choose from.
As a safety-first sedan, the Audi A3 comes equipped with collision-sensing Audi PreSense Front, as well as a rearview camera, stability and traction control, rain sensors, and more. If techy intelligent safety features are what you’re after, though, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA is the smarter choice. The CLA not only features similar safety systems, such as Active Brake Assist, it also tacks on a few exclusives not found on the Audi:
When it comes to performance, handling, and technology, the 2017 Audi A3 simply can’t compare to the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA. To test drive this stylish five-seater, visit Mercedes-Benz of Temecula at 40910 Temecula Center Drive Drive – about 20 minutes southwest of the Skinner Reservoir! Contact our sales team at (951) 225-1145 to schedule an appointment!
