LEAKED: Meet the brand new Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class (C 117)!

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As today is the 24th December, we were not expecting many breaking news to publish on our website. But Santa Claus thought different and we ended up receiving a rather unexpected, yet highly pleasant Christmas gift. Here, we share it with our visitors - ladies and gentlemen, a warm welcome to the new member of the Mercedes-Benz family: the CLA-Class, company's so-entitled executive compact four-door coupe.

At a closer inspection, the leaked photos appear to have been scanned from an internal brochure and then spread across the internet. However, we do not expect to see the official press pack any time soon. As the CLA gets a special preview on the eve of the NAIAS Detroit 2013, first pictures and information should be released by mid-January (14 to 15). This all-so-crucial model also follows the heritage of the CLS bestseller, in a compact-sized approach but retaining the pure essence of an elegant 4-door coupe model through its emotional exterior design.

Sticking to the car itself, the CLA resembles the main attributes of the New Compact Car Generation (NCCG) lineup, although its length is anything but compact. 4.6 meters, which is at least 1 centimeter longer than the current C-Class Sedan. This means the W 205 generation of the premium mid-class limousine should have around 4.7 - 4.8 meters to accomodate the CLA in the range.

The front end is powerful and inspired from the A-Class and the Concept Style Coupe, although a bit toned down compared to the showcar. The images emphasize the range-topping CLA 250 SPORT edition, specially engineered by AMG. This version is distinguished by the state-of-the-art Diamond grille, the impressive front air intakes, the special alloy wheels with sports styling, the rear diffuser and the LED technology for both the headlamps and tail lights. The engine that powers the CLA 250 SPORT is a straight-four, 2.1-litre petrol unit rated at 211 hp.

Moving inside the car, we embrace a familiar atmosphere. Merely revised compared to the A-Class, the dashboard of the new CLA-Class features the dynamic wing-shape design and certain specific elements to make it stand apart from the hatchback model. The instrument cluster and silhouette of the trim panel running across the middle section of the dashboard are different for the C 117. By looking at the upholstery on the sport seats pictured in the photos, it is highly possible Mercedes-Benz offers greater customization choices for the CLA, as this is a niche model.

- More preliminary facts --> HERE

- Early photos with an uncovered pre-series CLA >> HERE

We shall find out more about the all new Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to www.mercedesgla.blogspot.com for the latest news!

Image Credits: GermanCarForum

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