2020 C43 Coupe vs CLA 45
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I'm in the US so CLA45 S is out of the question. You guys are making my decision difficult 
I'm into tech so definitely into MBUX. I also want 4 doors as opposed to 2 (never had a 2 door so not sure if I can get used to it). But I also want the luxury of the C43. And based on comments here, the C43 wins at performance and sound of the exhaust too? Perhaps the easier question is, which one is better than the 2017 Audi S3, which is what I'm driving now.
I'm into tech so definitely into MBUX. I also want 4 doors as opposed to 2 (never had a 2 door so not sure if I can get used to it). But I also want the luxury of the C43. And based on comments here, the C43 wins at performance and sound of the exhaust too? Perhaps the easier question is, which one is better than the 2017 Audi S3, which is what I'm driving now.I hope you find the perfect vehicle that meets all your requirements and I wish you years of driving pleasure.
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Audi S3
Thanks all for your feedback, but I have just been told by the dealership that my build will be a 2021 build. Do we need to start this conversation over? 2021 CLA45 vs 2021 C43 coupe (rumor has it that it might be replaced with a C53 instead) 
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XD... get the CLA 45 like TModelle suggested. If you chose an S3 to begin with, you would appreciate a smaller car than the C43 and S5, S4 since you don't need the extra head room and leg room.
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C43 AMG
Without reading all the responses i think the cla or even A class will have cheaper interior.
Kind of like how the e class across the line has better interior than the c class. Theres levels to these cars. A c63s may have better interior than a low model e-class, but a top model e class will be better than the top model c. Not **** right? LOL
One thing that really irks me with the whole c class line up and even e class is the blank button and the missing ventilated seats. its really unacceptable. If we dont bring this up, MB will continue their marry way till EVERYONE adopts it and they have no choice. Thats the only turn off for me, blank button/missing ventilated seats.
Kind of like how the e class across the line has better interior than the c class. Theres levels to these cars. A c63s may have better interior than a low model e-class, but a top model e class will be better than the top model c. Not **** right? LOL
One thing that really irks me with the whole c class line up and even e class is the blank button and the missing ventilated seats. its really unacceptable. If we dont bring this up, MB will continue their marry way till EVERYONE adopts it and they have no choice. Thats the only turn off for me, blank button/missing ventilated seats.
Last edited by VitaminJB; Jun 12, 2020 at 11:45 PM.
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C190
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C190
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2018 C43
Are you sure you can get cla45 or s for cheaper then c43?
C43 is old tech and in NA, they are usually 10% off MSRP and some gotten even 20% off with under 1% interest rate.
How about cla45 that just came out? I would expect higher interest rate and being only 1 or 2 stock sent to each dealer, you probably won't be able to get steep discount either. Maybe when 2022 model comes out they can clearance the 2021?
C43 is old tech and in NA, they are usually 10% off MSRP and some gotten even 20% off with under 1% interest rate.
How about cla45 that just came out? I would expect higher interest rate and being only 1 or 2 stock sent to each dealer, you probably won't be able to get steep discount either. Maybe when 2022 model comes out they can clearance the 2021?
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Audi S3
Are you sure you can get cla45 or s for cheaper then c43?
C43 is old tech and in NA, they are usually 10% off MSRP and some gotten even 20% off with under 1% interest rate.
How about cla45 that just came out? I would expect higher interest rate and being only 1 or 2 stock sent to each dealer, you probably won't be able to get steep discount either. Maybe when 2022 model comes out they can clearance the 2021?
C43 is old tech and in NA, they are usually 10% off MSRP and some gotten even 20% off with under 1% interest rate.
How about cla45 that just came out? I would expect higher interest rate and being only 1 or 2 stock sent to each dealer, you probably won't be able to get steep discount either. Maybe when 2022 model comes out they can clearance the 2021?
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No more MB:(
Originally Posted by hellohello
Good point. Based on the payment estimator on the MB site, with the CLA 45 at $59,000 vs C43 at $64,000, the CLA45 ended up costing $111 extra per month for a 36 month lease, 10,000 miles per yr, and $2000 down.
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Audi S3
Test drove both the CLA45 and C43 today. CLA45 interior wins big time. I love the grille, 20" inch screen and OMG the air vents.The air vents!! The car was faster and hit corners better than the C43. The engine and exhaust sounds similar to my S3 (which is a little disappointing). The C43 I drove had the performance exhaust added and boy did I love the pop and crackles. I'd say the C43 wins at engine and the CLA45 wins at everything else. Oh I should also mention that the S3 was better at cornering - not sure why? Could it be that I didn't handle the cars well since it was my first time driving them?
I got quoted $880 per month for the CLA45 (MSRP $59K) and $800 for the C43 (MSPR $64K). It's hard justifying paying $2,880 extra ($80 x 36 months) for a car that is $5,000 cheaper.. so I'm still undecided lol
I got quoted $880 per month for the CLA45 (MSRP $59K) and $800 for the C43 (MSPR $64K). It's hard justifying paying $2,880 extra ($80 x 36 months) for a car that is $5,000 cheaper.. so I'm still undecided lol
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C190
Test drove both the CLA45 and C43 today. CLA45 interior wins big time. I love the grille, 20" inch screen and OMG the air vents.The air vents!! The car was faster and hit corners better than the C43. The engine and exhaust sounds similar to my S3 (which is a little disappointing). The C43 I drove had the performance exhaust added and boy did I love the pop and crackles. I'd say the C43 wins at engine and the CLA45 wins at everything else. Oh I should also mention that the S3 was better at cornering - not sure why? Could it be that I didn't handle the cars well since it was my first time driving them?
I got quoted $880 per month for the CLA45 (MSRP $59K) and $800 for the C43 (MSPR $64K). It's hard justifying paying $2,880 extra ($80 x 36 months) for a car that is $5,000 cheaper.. so I'm still undecided lol
I got quoted $880 per month for the CLA45 (MSRP $59K) and $800 for the C43 (MSPR $64K). It's hard justifying paying $2,880 extra ($80 x 36 months) for a car that is $5,000 cheaper.. so I'm still undecided lol
If you’re an Audi guy, just stick with an Audi. Or have both cars. I have had an S5 for ten years and a C43 for one year. I still prefer the Audi every drive. It’s not a matter of getting used to, it’s been a year. If you like the way the Audi handles, and how composed it is at high speed and how it corners, how much better the suspension is, most likely you’ll still feel that way even after more time behind the Mercedes.
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C43
Test drove both the CLA45 and C43 today. CLA45 interior wins big time. I love the grille, 20" inch screen and OMG the air vents.The air vents!! The car was faster and hit corners better than the C43. The engine and exhaust sounds similar to my S3 (which is a little disappointing). The C43 I drove had the performance exhaust added and boy did I love the pop and crackles. I'd say the C43 wins at engine and the CLA45 wins at everything else. Oh I should also mention that the S3 was better at cornering - not sure why? Could it be that I didn't handle the cars well since it was my first time driving them?
I got quoted $880 per month for the CLA45 (MSRP $59K) and $800 for the C43 (MSPR $64K). It's hard justifying paying $2,880 extra ($80 x 36 months) for a car that is $5,000 cheaper.. so I'm still undecided lol
I got quoted $880 per month for the CLA45 (MSRP $59K) and $800 for the C43 (MSPR $64K). It's hard justifying paying $2,880 extra ($80 x 36 months) for a car that is $5,000 cheaper.. so I'm still undecided lol
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No more MB:(
Originally Posted by hellohello
Test drove both the CLA45 and C43 today. CLA45 interior wins big time. I love the grille, 20" inch screen and OMG the air vents.The air vents!! The car was faster and hit corners better than the C43. The engine and exhaust sounds similar to my S3 (which is a little disappointing). The C43 I drove had the performance exhaust added and boy did I love the pop and crackles. I'd say the C43 wins at engine and the CLA45 wins at everything else. Oh I should also mention that the S3 was better at cornering - not sure why? Could it be that I didn't handle the cars well since it was my first time driving them?
I got quoted $880 per month for the CLA45 (MSRP $59K) and $800 for the C43 (MSPR $64K). It's hard justifying paying $2,880 extra ($80 x 36 months) for a car that is $5,000 cheaper.. so I'm still undecided lol
I got quoted $880 per month for the CLA45 (MSRP $59K) and $800 for the C43 (MSPR $64K). It's hard justifying paying $2,880 extra ($80 x 36 months) for a car that is $5,000 cheaper.. so I'm still undecided lol
As for payments, something is off. What is the residual for each? Same MF?
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Audi S3
This is exactly what I’ve been saying. There’s no way the C43 has a better interior than the CLA45. I think people are just saying the opposite without having seen the new car in person, for real. The only thing C43 has over the CLA45 is the sound of the exhaust. That’s isn’t much to go for over the CLA45.
If you’re an Audi guy, just stick with an Audi. Or have both cars. I have had an S5 for ten years and a C43 for one year. I still prefer the Audi every drive. It’s not a matter of getting used to, it’s been a year. If you like the way the Audi handles, and how composed it is at high speed and how it corners, how much better the suspension is, most likely you’ll still feel that way even after more time behind the Mercedes.
If you’re an Audi guy, just stick with an Audi. Or have both cars. I have had an S5 for ten years and a C43 for one year. I still prefer the Audi every drive. It’s not a matter of getting used to, it’s been a year. If you like the way the Audi handles, and how composed it is at high speed and how it corners, how much better the suspension is, most likely you’ll still feel that way even after more time behind the Mercedes.
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Before the CLA, C class was always entry level and people consider those cars as a "fake" Mercedes-Benz, boy did things changed fast. Now, C-class is considered more upscale.
The introduction of CLA allowed the C-class to be more upmarket for W205 so there is that.
After having two A-class, both built in Germany and one CLA 250 as loaners when I was servicing my C43. In my personal opinion, the build quality in the CLA just isn't as good as C class (I know we can start the conversation on the C-class squeaks and rattles but still), there are obvious cost cutting such as the window controls and switches, hard touch plastics at some places. The LED light strip used for ambient lighting is clearly inferior quality than the C-class and E-class for example.
The CLA is full of technology though, yes the air vents are nice I agree and I also agree it is one of the nicest interiors in that segment. If the lights and the double screens is enough for you to forgive the "slightly" less build quality in the CLA compared to C-Class, the CLA is always a good option to consider.
The introduction of CLA allowed the C-class to be more upmarket for W205 so there is that.
After having two A-class, both built in Germany and one CLA 250 as loaners when I was servicing my C43. In my personal opinion, the build quality in the CLA just isn't as good as C class (I know we can start the conversation on the C-class squeaks and rattles but still), there are obvious cost cutting such as the window controls and switches, hard touch plastics at some places. The LED light strip used for ambient lighting is clearly inferior quality than the C-class and E-class for example.
The CLA is full of technology though, yes the air vents are nice I agree and I also agree it is one of the nicest interiors in that segment. If the lights and the double screens is enough for you to forgive the "slightly" less build quality in the CLA compared to C-Class, the CLA is always a good option to consider.
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Nope, not fully loaded. It's a coupe with a price of ~$63,500, 36 months, no down payment. What was your sticker price?
The C43 only wins at the exhaust though. I can probably get used to 2 doors but I'm really not a fan of the interior at all. It doesn't make sense to me that the CLA is regarded as entry level when the starting price of the CLA45 is practically the same as the C43. I don't have the info on the RV and MF, but I'm asking two other dealers for pricing so we'll see.
I agree, the C43 only wins at the sound of the exhaust. Is there some way to remove the OPF/PPF filters on the CLA45 for the duration of the lease so you can hear the exhaust better? Unfortunately, the S3 is leased so I was planning to return it. I'm purchasing another property at the moment, so I can't have 2 cars right now =/
The C43 only wins at the exhaust though. I can probably get used to 2 doors but I'm really not a fan of the interior at all. It doesn't make sense to me that the CLA is regarded as entry level when the starting price of the CLA45 is practically the same as the C43. I don't have the info on the RV and MF, but I'm asking two other dealers for pricing so we'll see.
I agree, the C43 only wins at the sound of the exhaust. Is there some way to remove the OPF/PPF filters on the CLA45 for the duration of the lease so you can hear the exhaust better? Unfortunately, the S3 is leased so I was planning to return it. I'm purchasing another property at the moment, so I can't have 2 cars right now =/
The S3 is a great car, your car reminded me of a video:
The reason the CLA 45 is the same price as the C43 it is because the C43 is "old" at this point, the CLA 45 is a new generation and there will be a mark up and that is the reason why it is more expensive.
The power (although i4 vs v6) is very similar to C43 so the price "makes sense" (no it doesn't), CLA 45 has a hand-built engine so that comes at a cost too (sort of).
Last edited by W205C43PFL; Jun 21, 2020 at 10:22 AM.
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No more MB:(
Originally Posted by W205C43PFL
Before the CLA, C class was always entry level and people consider those cars as a "fake" Mercedes-Benz, boy did things changed fast. Now, C-class is considered more upscale.
The introduction of CLA allowed the C-class to be more upmarket for W205 so there is that.
After having two A-class, both built in Germany and one CLA 250 as loaners when I was servicing my C43. In my personal opinion, the build quality in the CLA just isn't as good as C class (I know we can start the conversation on the C-class squeaks and rattles but still), there are obvious cost cutting such as the window controls and switches, hard touch plastics at some places. The LED light strip used for ambient lighting is clearly inferior quality than the C-class and E-class for example.
The CLA is full of technology though, yes the air vents are nice I agree and I also agree it is one of the nicest interiors in that segment. If the lights and the double screens is enough for you to forgive the "slightly" less build quality in the CLA compared to C-Class, the CLA is always a good option to consider.
The introduction of CLA allowed the C-class to be more upmarket for W205 so there is that.
After having two A-class, both built in Germany and one CLA 250 as loaners when I was servicing my C43. In my personal opinion, the build quality in the CLA just isn't as good as C class (I know we can start the conversation on the C-class squeaks and rattles but still), there are obvious cost cutting such as the window controls and switches, hard touch plastics at some places. The LED light strip used for ambient lighting is clearly inferior quality than the C-class and E-class for example.
The CLA is full of technology though, yes the air vents are nice I agree and I also agree it is one of the nicest interiors in that segment. If the lights and the double screens is enough for you to forgive the "slightly" less build quality in the CLA compared to C-Class, the CLA is always a good option to consider.
CLA is inferior. It's a price leader for the brand to pull in a younger and less sophisticated market mostly. Monthly payment on a cla is more than the c and the OP has no idea why.
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After having two A-class, both built in Germany and one CLA 250 as loaners when I was servicing my C43. In my personal opinion, the build quality in the CLA just isn't as good as C class (I know we can start the conversation on the C-class squeaks and rattles but still), there are obvious cost cutting such as the window controls and switches, hard touch plastics at some places. The LED light strip used for ambient lighting is clearly inferior quality than the C-class and E-class for example.
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I don’t know about you, but the CLA250 isn’t a CLA45, just like a C200 is not a C43 and they can’t really be compared - the OP has personally tested the CLA45, which is also nothing like the previous CLA45, I have tested one too, and I am agreement with him that the CLA45 is equal or superior to the C43 interior in almost all respects, build and quality. We’ve got to face the fact that the W205 is really getting old at this point and just can’t compare with the latest stuff coming out from AMG. I’d take the CLA45 over the C43 in a heartbeat, any day of the year.
However, we did have a CLA 45 in the showroom at my local dealership and I did take a look (just that I never test drove it) while I was waiting for the service advisor to finalize the invoice of my vehicle service after returning the loaner. The light strip is the exact same quality as the one in the CLA 250, A 250 hatch loaners I driven and the window buttons are the same plastic.
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Audi S3
100%. Most newer MB customers don't know what matters. As the OP prioritizes, exhaust, flashy dashboard and monthly payments (with no idea as to the lease structure, dealers cleaning house) make the difference. Oh, and the vents of course! No idea about quality, fit, finish, materials used. Could care less. Latest infotainment and exhaust and monthly payment.
CLA is inferior. It's a price leader for the brand to pull in a younger and less sophisticated market mostly. Monthly payment on a cla is more than the c and the OP has no idea why.
CLA is inferior. It's a price leader for the brand to pull in a younger and less sophisticated market mostly. Monthly payment on a cla is more than the c and the OP has no idea why.
@TModelle THANK YOU. I really am leaning towards the CLA45 and may just have to go with the aftermarket exhaust like @W205C43PFL suggested.
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What matters to you may not be what matters to others. I'm a tech person so the new dashboard & MBUX matters to me. What matters to me is what I will see the most (dashboard & vents) and what I hear and feel (exhaust). Having been in both cars yesterday, I do see the differences between the two, negligible, but yes like you said, as a "young and less sophisticated" person, I could care less about the quality, finish, materials, etc. I do know why the monthly is different but it's hard to digest the reasoning, but I'll get over it. I shouldn't pay for a car I don't love just because it's cheaper.
@TModelle THANK YOU. I really am leaning towards the CLA45 and may just have to go with the aftermarket exhaust like @W205C43PFL suggested.
@TModelle THANK YOU. I really am leaning towards the CLA45 and may just have to go with the aftermarket exhaust like @W205C43PFL suggested.
See you on CLA 45 (C118)
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C43
Looking for some up-to-date thoughts/comparisons between the 2020 C43 coupe & CLA 45 coupe. I placed a leasing order for the C43 last October but due to incompetent dealer and COVID-19, it will now be a 2021 build (to be expected in September or so they say). I'm now having second thoughts about the order after seeing that the new CLA 45 interior looks nicer (love the dashboard), is .5 second faster in acceleration, has 4 doors (I know C43 comes with 4 doors too but the 2 door just looks so much better, esp the back) and is a few thousand cheaper.
I got the digital instrument cluster so it's pretty much the same as the CLA 45 super wide dual screen, it's just 2 separate screens in the C43 and I like it better because the instrument cluster is actually covered and looks integrated into the car instead of just sitting out there like a giant, wide tablet glued on top.
The C43 with AMG sport exhaust option also sounds a lot better than the CLA 45. In terms of performance, unless you're racing a C43 against a CLA45 all the time, why does the extra .5 seconds matter? Keep in mind that these are just numbers on a spec sheet. I've seen people run 4.1 to 4.3 from 0 to 60 on a stock C43 before so there are a lot of other factors involved to get that time. Unless you put the CLA 45 head to head against the C43 you actually won't know which is faster in the real world.
