Canadian-Owned and Operated Since 1985November 06 2025,
In the world of compact sedans, few names stand out like the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250. It’s elegant, quick, and designed with precision that defines the Mercedes badge. But how does it fare against strong mainstream competitors like the Toyota Corolla XSE AWD and Mazda 3 GT AWD? Let’s dive into a head-to-head look at performance, comfort, and real-world value to see who comes out on top.
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Mercedes-Benz CLA 250: The Benchmark of Compact Luxury
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 is a small sedan that makes a big impression. Beneath its sculpted hood sits a 221-horsepower turbocharged engine paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, a setup designed for drivers who crave precision and quick response. Accelerating from 0–100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, the CLA 250 easily steps into performance-sedan territory while maintaining excellent highway efficiency at 6.9 L/100 km. The cabin continues Mercedes’ legacy of craftsmanship: high-grade materials, dual widescreen displays, ambient lighting, and voice-activated MBUX controls create an immersive experience that feels more luxury coupe than a compact sedan. Add in confident handling, a quiet ride, and sleek aerodynamics, and the CLA 250 shows why refinement and performance don’t have to live in separate worlds.
Toyota Corolla XSE AWD: Efficiency You Can Count On
The Toyota Corolla XSE AWD is the practical pick of this lineup, blending everyday reliability with the confidence of all-wheel drive. Its 138-horsepower engine and CVT transmission focus on smooth, steady acceleration, taking 9.0 seconds to reach 100 km/h. What it lacks in outright speed, it makes up for with impressive efficiency, an estimated 5.7 L/100 km on the highway, making it a commuter favourite. The interior prioritizes functionality over flair, with user-friendly controls, dependable comfort, and Toyota’s suite of safety technologies. For drivers seeking a no-nonsense, fuel-efficient companion that handles Canadian winters with ease, the Corolla XSE AWD remains a strong value contender.
Mazda 3 GT AWD: Sporty Spirit with Everyday Versatility
The Mazda 3 GT AWD finds its stride as a driver-focused compact with premium ambitions. Its 190-horsepower engine and six-speed automatic transmission deliver lively performance, going from 0–100 km/h in 7.3 seconds while maintaining a respectable 6.6 L/100 km highway rating. Mazda’s “Jinba Ittai” philosophy, the harmony between driver and car, shines through in its responsive steering and agile road feel. Inside, the GT trim impresses with soft-touch materials, a refined minimalist layout, and supportive seating that feels upscale for the segment. With 569 litres of cargo space, it’s as practical as it is polished, offering a satisfying middle ground between luxury and affordability.
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Comparison Showdown
|
Feature |
Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 |
Toyota Corolla XSE AWD |
Mazda 3 GT AWD |
|
Engine |
221 horsepower |
138 horsepower |
190 horsepower |
|
Transmission |
8-speed dual clutch |
CVT |
6-speed automatic |
|
0–60 sec |
5.7 sec |
9.0 sec |
7.3 sec |
|
Cargo Space |
440-litre |
371-litre |
569-litre |
|
Highway Economy |
6.9 L/100 km |
5.7 L/100 km |
6.6 L/100 km |
Verdict: Refinement Meets Everyday Driveability
Each model has its charm: the Corolla XSE AWD is practical and efficient, the Mazda 3 GT AWD brings agility and value, but the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 blends power, luxury, and efficiency in a way that few rivals can match. It’s not just a car, it’s an experience built for those who appreciate the finer details of driving.
Discover the CLA 250 at Your Local Dilawri-Franchised Dealership
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 is about setting the standard for compact luxury. Visit your local Dilawri-franchised dealership today to explore this stunning sedan in person, take it for a drive, and experience how refinement and excitement meet in perfect harmony.
