Skip to main content

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG to make video game debut in upcoming PS4 title ‘Driveclub’

CLA 45 AMG in DriveclubIt was just last month when Mercedes took the sheets off its newest entry-level compact sedan, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class. At a preview just before the Detroit Auto Show, we drooled over this pint-sized CLS lookalike, but we were told that we wouldn’t get the chance to buy the AMG model in the U.S. just yet.

In an announcement by Sony yesterday, we realized we’d get the next best thing: the CLA 45 AMG will debut in “Driveclub,” a new racing game in development for Sony’s upcoming PlayStation 4 console.  We may not get to enjoy this performance-oriented baby Benz in our driveways, but at least we’ll get the chance to play with it in our living rooms.

Slotted as an entry-level model below the C-Class, the CLA-Class is Mercedes’ answer to competitors like the Lexus CT200h, Acura ILX, Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series.  Stateside, we’ll receive the car in its turbocharged four-cylinder CLA250 guise, good for 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.  The model will be made available in both front- and all-wheel drive version.  While that kind of power and traction is sure to be peppy in such a small sedan, our hearts are still set on the more aggressive AMG model that we’ll only get to experience on the PlayStation 4.

Mercedes promises to pack the CLA-Class with tons of modern driving technologies, from its upgraded infotainment suite to its collision avoidance and blindspot monitoring systems.  We’re certainly excited to see this miniature “style rebel,” so be sure to check back with us later this spring for our first impressions of the CLA250, and we’ll give you a better idea of what to expect when the car goes on sale later this fall.

Davis Adams
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Whether you're talking about gadgets or cars, Davis always seems to prefer "next year's models." He's a neophile to the core…
Mercedes-Benz EQG: range, price, release date, and more
Concept image of the larger electric G-Wagon

The G-Class is going electric. We already knew that Mercedes-Benz was working on an electric, small-size G-Wagon, but it looks like the company is also working on a larger G-Class SUV, in the form of the EQG. In fact, Mercedes has gone as far as to show off a concept version of the off-roader.

While there's much we don't know about what will become the production model of the EQG, Mercedes has also shared a lot about it. Curious about whether the Mercedes-Benz EQG could be the EV for you? Here's everything we know so far.
Design
Fear not -- the EQG will retain many of the design aspects of the G-Class that you already know and love but with a modern face-lift. The EQG will keep the boxy design that gives the G-Class a classic look but with some additional modern styling, at least if the concept version is anything to go by.

Read more
Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs
Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Read more
Rivian R2 vs R1S: How will Rivian’s cheaper SUV compare?
The front three-quarter view of a 2022 Rivian against a rocky backdrop.

Rivian has finally unveiled the R2, its long-awaited attempt at a more affordable electric SUV. The new vehicle may not be available just yet, but fans of Rivian's design aesthetics and feature set are already looking forward to being able to order the new car. The R2 is targeted at being a more affordable take on the electric SUV and will sit alongside the flagship-tier R1S.

Let's get this out of the way right now: The R1S is most likely going to be a better vehicle than the R2. Rivian isn't replacing the R1S with the R2 — it's releasing the R2 as a more affordable alternative, and there will be some compromises when buying the R2 over the R1S.

Read more