2017 Audi A3 vs. 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA

Get Twice as Much Power with Mercedes

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.

Customizable Handling

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.

Mercedes-Exclusive Technology

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:

• 8-Inch Display: Compared to the A3 Sedan’s 7-inch screen, the CLA Coupe’s larger 8-inch display makes it easier to view the rearview camera’s feed, place handsfree calls, personalize DYNAMIC SELECT^®, and more.
• ATTENTION ASSIST^®: This driver attention monitor observes up to 70 parameters of driving behavior, and notifies you immediately if you display signs of drowsiness.
• Vehicle Location System: As part of the standard five-year subscription to mbrace^® telematics, the Vehicle Location System uses GPS to help you keep tabs on your vehicle from afar.