2026-07-22 · 5 min read
Mercedes-Benz CLA Generations — C117 vs C118 Malaysia Guide
C117 (2014–2019): M270/M274 engines, 7DCT, classic four-door coupe. C118 (2019+): M260/M274, 8DCT, wider cabin, MBUX infotainment. Which generation is the smarter buy in Malaysia's market?
Two CLA generations have been sold in Malaysia. Understanding which generation you have determines the transmission type, oil spec and common fault patterns.
CLA C117 (2013–2019)
- CLA 200: M270 1.3T (later cars) or M270 2.0T (early cars), 7DCT or 7G-Tronic
- CLA 250: M270 2.0T, 7G-Tronic; CLA 250 Sport 4MATIC available late C117
- Body: 4-door coupe with panoramic sunroof on most variants
CLA C118 (2019+)
- Built on W177 A-Class platform — mechanically identical to W177 A-Class
- CLA 200: M270, 7DCT; CLA 250: M260, 7DCT
- Larger MBUX screen, more ADAS features, improved body lines
Recommendation
The C118 CLA is simpler to service (all 7DCT, no 7G-Tronic ambiguity, standardised oil specs). The C117 offers better value in the used market but requires more careful pre-purchase checking given its age. Both are good cars when maintained correctly.