28 MPG combined is a respectable figure for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 4matic. This isn’t a dedicated fuel sipper like a Prius; it’s a stylish, entry-level luxury coupe (in four-door guise) designed for urban professionals and young families who prioritize design and a premium driving experience. Fuel economy, while important, often takes a back seat to aesthetics and brand cachet for this demographic. They want a Mercedes-Benz without spending too much, and the CLA250 partially delivers on that.

City and highway performance

The CLA250’s EPA estimates break down to 25 MPG in city driving and 35 MPG on the highway. The stop-and-go nature of city driving inevitably hurts fuel economy, with the turbocharger working harder as you accelerate from lights and navigate congested streets. The eight-speed automatic transmission (AM8) helps to mitigate this by keeping the engine in its optimal power band. On the open road, the CLA250 settles into a quiet cruise. The 35 MPG highway figure is achievable, even with bursts of acceleration for overtaking slower traffic. Crucially, the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder provides adequate power for confident highway maneuvers, meaning you won’t constantly be flooring it and sacrificing fuel efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 4matic at $2,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended for optimal performance), and fluctuations in gasoline prices. It is a useful benchmark, however, for comparing the CLA250’s running costs with those of competing vehicles. You can find all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on our site.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who frequently engage in spirited driving or consistently operate in heavy traffic will likely see figures below the EPA averages. Conversely, those prioritizing fuel efficiency and sticking to consistent highway speeds might achieve slightly better MPG. The driving style, tire pressure, climate control usage, and even the type of terrain can all influence how efficiently the CLA250 consumes fuel. Don’t expect to consistently match the 35 MPG highway figure unless you’re actively trying to conserve fuel.

How it compares

The 2024 CLA250 sits in a competitive segment of small luxury vehicles. For example, the BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupe, another stylish four-door coupe, achieves a slightly lower 27 MPG combined. The Audi A3 Quattro offers similar performance and fuel economy with a combined rating of 28 MPG. However, the Acura Integra, while not strictly a luxury brand, offers a blend of practicality and sportiness, and its A-Spec trim achieves 30 MPG combined, making it a more fuel-efficient alternative. These comparisons are important to the CLA250 buyer because they’re likely cross-shopping multiple brands before making a final decision, considering factors beyond just fuel economy. They’re weighing styling, features, and brand prestige as well. Be sure to check our CLA250 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt a smooth and gradual acceleration style, especially from a standstill. This minimizes the turbocharger’s workload and reduces fuel consumption. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and maintain a consistent pace whenever possible.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Use the CLA250’s Eco driving mode when appropriate. This mode adjusts the throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. It’s ideal for highway cruising and less demanding driving situations.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Excess cargo adds to the overall weight the engine has to haul, which directly impacts fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need on a regular basis.

Avoid extended idling. If you anticipate stopping for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, making it more fuel-efficient to switch off the engine than let it idle wastefully.