Mercedes-Benz will be launching the CLA sedan early next year. The carmaker launched its performance-oriented version, the CLA 45 AMG sedan earlier this year. But that is a halo car in Merc’s lineup and costs around Rs 70 lakh. The standard CLA, when launched, will be the most affordable sedan in the Mercedes lineup. Currently, the only compact luxury sedan in the Indian market is the Audi A3, and when the CLA launches in 2015, it will directly take on the small Audi. The CLA sedan is based on the MFA platform, a front-wheel-drive architecture that also underpins the A-class, B-class, GLA, GLA 45 AMG and of course, the CLA 45 AMG.

As is expected of compact sedans, practicality or space is not the CLA’s strengths. But what it does give you is sheer visual appeal. The long snout followed by the swoopy, coupe-like roofline, makes for a low-slung, attractive looking car. In fact, Mercedes has focused on styling the car to attract young buyers. Mechanically, the CLA gets a 2.2-litre diesel and a 2.0-litre petrol engine. The diesel motor makes 135bhp and 30.5kgm of torque, while the petrol engine delivers 181bhp and 30.59kg of torque. Both engines come mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that sends power to the front wheels. The CLA will not get any all-wheel-drive (4Matic) versions. This entire setup is also used to power the GLA compact SUV.

Mercedes will probably price the CLA petrol starting at around Rs 40 lakh (on-road), and the diesel model starting at Rs 43-45 lakh (on-road). Unlike what Mercedes generally does, the CLA will not have any launch edition.  In late 2015 though, all Mercedes vehicles based on the MFA platform are likely to be locally assembled, and this will help cut the costs considerably.