In the world of German luxury cars, it seems there are two types: the kind that you drive for comfort and the kind you drive on the track with gritted teeth. The previous is designed specifically for the elderly and the latter is more for masochists (of any age).

Can’t there be a middle ground? Yes, yes there can. And it’s called the CLA 250 Sport.

We’ve already seen the standard CLA 250 with 200-some horsepower aimed at up and coming accountants and the extreme CLA 45 AMG with 355 ponies, which was inspired by the devil himself. Now Mercedes has unveiled the delightful middle ground we weren’t sure would ever exist outside of the aftermarket.

Mercedes calls the CLA 250 Sport “engineered by AMG” but without the backbone pummeling suspension and hefty asking price of a full-on AMG. Under the hood of the CLA 250 Sport is the same turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, which is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

What makes it a Sport model, then? Mercedes has added “Sport” badges throughout, red seat belts, as well as red AMG front and rear aprons, exclusive five-spoke 18‑inch AMG light-alloy wheels and bright red brake calipers.

Don’t worry; the CLA 250 Sport isn’t just an appearance package. Mercedes also bolts up a special AMG-developed front axle and a chassis, including AMG speed-sensitive sports steering.

This, then, sounds like the CLA 45 AMG that you want without breaking your bank or your girlfriend’s spine. Right now, though, it’s not yet slated for North American sale. Perhaps if we make enough of a stink, the humorless souls back in Germany will wise up and ship a few our way.

http://www.digitaltrends.com

By Nick Jaynes