Gen 1 CLA45
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Discussion

Bruc3

Original Poster:

71 posts

180 months

Wednesday 26th January 2022
quotequote all
I'm in the market for a new car after outgrowing the wife's VW Eos...

Typically I've always bought cars around the 5K mark, so spending a chunk is quite daunting!

We've decided we want a CLA, but I want something with a bit of poke.

I was originally looking at a CLA 220, with the option of a remap, but I got looking at 45s, which I ultimately what I've wanted for a couple of years...

Am I mad for even entertaining an 8 year old CLA45?

Curious to hear what they're like to live with, and what the servicing costs are like?

Should I be trying to talk myself out of the 45, and get a much newer 220D for the same money? (20-25k)

nikaiyo2

5,925 posts

223 months

Wednesday 26th January 2022
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Have you driven one? I would recommend taking a really long test drive make sure it includes town driving.

Had one as a company car about 7 years ago.

Fast, very fast but also really dull at the same time. I found it challenging to drive, never sure if it was engine maps or gearbox but pulling out of junctions at driving through town speeds was horrible, like some oldskool turbo car. Nothing nothing nothing everything.

It’s great to drive like it’s stolen less, great when driven like you are going to a meeting in Leatherhead.

Only had it about 18 months then passed it on.

ZX10R NIN

30,455 posts

153 months

Wednesday 26th January 2022
quotequote all
They're a very good steer & no you're not mad but as above test drive one first, another car to consider is the RS3:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202201241...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202110299...

They're a bit less manic than the 45 so you might enjoy the drivetrain more.

Bruc3

Original Poster:

71 posts

180 months

Wednesday 26th January 2022
quotequote all
I've got my first test drive booked in for Sunday, so shall be sure to give it a proper run!

I'd imagine it can't be any worse than our current DSG box on the Eos! It certainly takes some getting used to!

I did look at the RS3, but I just can't get on board with the styling... Also the extra boot space is a massive plus on the CLA!