OK, so it isn't the CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake. We love that one, too. But it's going to be outright expensive, almost to the point where bumping up to the eventual C63 AMG sedan may be worth considering. At any rate, Mercedes-Benz has just unleashed its CLA Shooting Brake, a sort of wagon, sort of sexier hatchback. Set to go on sale in Europe this January (yes, Europe only), the CLA Shooting Brake will be offered with a choice of diesel and gasoline engines as well as the automaker's 4Matic all-wheel-drive system.

The sole diesel is a 2.1-liter turbo four with 136 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, or you can bump that up to 177 hp and 258 lb-ft. The base gasoline engine is a 1.6-liter rated at 122 hp and 147 lb-ft. That output can be increased to 156 hp and 184 lb-ft. The top-end gas engine is a 2.0-liter turbo four with 211 hp and 258 lb-ft. If it were up to us, we'd go with the more powerful oil burner. A seven-speed dual-clutch is standard for all engines. So really, what's the difference between the CLA Sedan and Shooting Brake? Mainly cargo space, which Mercedes claims has increased by 25 liters. The rear seats can also be moved into a more steeply raked "cargo" position.

One interesting option is the electronically operated Easy-Pack tailgate to help enhance convenience and variability when using the load compartment. The interior is carried over from the sedan. In summary, Mercedes states that the CLA Shooting Brake is "targeted at active customers who are looking outside of the mainstream that impresses with a high utility value." To kick things off, a limited-edition OrangeArt Edition will be offered at launch. Official pricing wasn't announced, but it'll likely be slightly more than the CLA sedan. An official live premiere at Geneva this March is expected.