Poll: Acura ILX or Mercedes-Benz CLA250?

Craig Cole
by Craig Cole

Small luxury is becoming BIG business these days, which is why we’re comparing two of the most popular sedans in this burgeoning segment.

Yes, the Acura ILX and Mercedes-Benz CLA250 are facing off in our latest poll. Which of these popular four-doors will come out on top? Let’s find out!

Starting alphabetically, the Acura features a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine under its hood. This propulsion unit is good for 201 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of peak torque. For quick shifting, it’s paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the only gearbox available in the ILX.

As for the Mercedes, it’s motivated by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-banger. With a stable of 208 ponies, it delivers comparable horsepower to its Japanese rival but blows it away when it comes to torque. All told, it puts out 258 lb-ft of twist, all of which is available from 1,250 to 4,00 RPM. Likewise, it features a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. If you want to row your own, too bad! A manual isn’t available. Front- or all-wheel drive is offered to appease snow-belt customers.

As for pricing, the ILX kicks off at around $29,000, including $940 in shipping and handling fees. Fuel economy measures 25 miles per gallon city, 35 highway and 29 MPG combined.

Further mirroring the Acura, Mercedes’ offering starts around $33,000, a price that includes $925 in delivery charges. Curiously, with front-wheel-drive the CLA250 is slightly more economical than the ILX, managing to deliver 26 miles per gallon in urban conditions and 38 on interstate jaunts, figures that result in an average of 30 MPG.

So there you go! Which of these small luxury sedans do YOU prefer? Which one would YOU rather own? If you still need more information about each, please compare them here, AND VOTE IN OUR POLL!!!

Craig Cole
Craig Cole

Born and raised in metro Detroit, Craig was steeped in mechanics from childhood. He feels as much at home with a wrench or welding gun in his hand as he does behind the wheel or in front of a camera. Putting his Bachelor's Degree in Journalism to good use, he's always pumping out videos, reviews, and features for AutoGuide.com. When the workday is over, he can be found out driving his fully restored 1936 Ford V8 sedan. Craig has covered the automotive industry full time for more than 10 years and is a member of the Automotive Press Association (APA) and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA).

More by Craig Cole

Comments
Join the conversation
2 of 4 comments
  • Nauticalone Nauticalone on May 19, 2016

    Neither! I'd take the Accord or Civic, or VW CC instead. Or Mazda 6. There are better vehicles available!

  • Jullius C. Jullius C. on May 20, 2016

    I really don't like either. The Mercedes is one of the worst cars they've ever made they made it so cheap and poorly. And the Acura looks nice but i can never get over the fact that they put two screens in the center console its stupid and redundant.

Next