Mercedes-Benz made headlines last year when it announced it would be bringing in its CLA-Class priced from just $29,900 before adding $925 in destination charges. Now, pricing is creeping up, with the 2015 model destined to be priced from $31,500 for the entry-level CLA250 model, an increase of $1,600. Add the car’s destination charge and you’re looking at a final sticker of $32,425.

That’s still a good deal considering the level of kit that comes with the car, but it’s not as sweet as last year’s pricing. The likely culprit is high demand; year to date, Mercedes has sold 24,701 CLAs in the U.S., making it the marque’s fifth most popular model. Demand has actually doubled Mercedes' original prediction.

Prices are up across the range, with the CLA250 4matic now priced from $34,425, a rise of $1,600 on last year’s pricing, and the CLA45 AMG 4matic now priced from $49,425, a $1,050. Both figures include destination.

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A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is still standard across the range, and all models still come equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The Mercedes-AMG model is clearly the most potent, delivering 355 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The CLA250 models come with 208 hp and 258 lb-ft on tap.

An extensive array of standard and optional driver assistance systems are offered on the CLA-Class. Standard features include ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS with adaptive Brake Assist, which offers collision protection in the CLA from speeds of just 4 mph.

The optional Driver Assistance package offers DISTRONIC Plus active cruise control, as well as familiar safety systems including Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist. It costs $2,500.

Another worthy package is the AMG Sport Package for the non-Mercedes-AMG models. It costs $3,900 and adds cool features such as 18-inch AMG-style wheels, sports suspension, a diamond-pattern grille, and a host of other upgrades including a few interior items.

Sales of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class commence early next year.

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