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Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Volkswagen Golf R - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (416 HP vs 315 HP), trunk space and price (44,400 $ vs 45,700 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Mercedes-Benz CLA or Volkswagen Golf R?

Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Volkswagen Golf R: Key differences

Mercedes-Benz CLA

  • marginally cheaper
  • visibly more power
  • slightly more efficient

Volkswagen Golf R

  • marginally lighter

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

CLA

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Mercedes-Benz CLA is marginally cheaper – starting at 44,400 $ , while the Volkswagen Golf R costs 45,700 $ . That’s a price difference of around 1,265 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Mercedes-Benz CLA performs slightly better – achieving 26 mpg, compared to 22 mpg for the Volkswagen Golf R. That’s a difference of about 4 mpg.

Golf R

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes-Benz CLA offers visibly more power – delivering 416 HP compared to 315 HP. That’s roughly 101 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes-Benz CLA delivers clearly more torque with 369 lb-ft compared to 295 lb-ft. That’s about 74 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Volkswagen Golf R is marginally lighter – 3,397 lbs compared to 3,483 lbs. The difference is around 86 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes-Benz CLA is clearly superior overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $44,400
CLA

Mercedes-Benz CLA

  • Engine Type : , Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All Wheel, Front Wheel
  • Power HP : 13 - 416 HP
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Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

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View detailed analysis

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View detailed analysis

General
View detailed analysis

Mercedes-Benz CLA

The Mercedes-Benz CLA stands out with its sleek styling and coupé-like silhouette, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts who appreciate design. Its luxurious interior is adorned with high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology, ensuring a comfortable and connected driving experience. The vehicle is also known for its dynamic performance and agile handling, providing both excitement and efficiency on the road.

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Reviews Mercedes-Benz CLA

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

Volkswagen Golf R

The Golf R is the hot hatch that blends everyday civility with a mischievous streak, gripping hard and slingshotting out of corners while still cruising to the grocery store like a champ. Inside it’s practical and polished, and with the right drive mode it flips from calm commuter to cheeky back-road assassin without breaking a sweat.

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Reviews Volkswagen Golf R

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Mercedes-Benz CLA
Volkswagen Golf R

Costs and Consumption
Price
44,400 - 67,100 $
Price
45,700 - 46,500 $
FuelEconomy City
20 - 26 mpg
FuelEconomy City
20 - 22 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
28 - 36 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
28 - 31 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
13.5 gal
Fuel tank capacity
14.5 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
4MATIC, Sedan
Body Type
4MOTION Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,483 - 3,660 lbs
Curb weight
3,397 - 3,474 lbs
Trunk Volume
11.6 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
-
Length
184.6 - 184.8 in.
Length
168.9 in.
Width
72 - 72.2 in.
Width
70.4 in.
Height
55 - 56 in.
Height
57 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
, Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Drive Type
All Wheel, Front Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel
Power HP
13 - 416 HP
Power HP
315 HP
Torque
258 - 369 lb-ft
Torque
280 - 295 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2 L
Engine Displacement
2 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,024
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
Volkswagen
What is the price of the Mercedes-Benz CLA?

Base pricing begins at 44,400 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.