IRVINE, Calif. –

The 2014 CLA isn’t just giving Mercedes-Benz what appears so far to be greater footing in the entry-luxury segment; this new model is quickly becoming a residual value leader for the automaker, says Kelley Blue Book.

Based on the January/February 2014 Kelley Blue Book Residual Value Guide, the 36-month residual value for the CLA-Class is at 56 percent, more than 3 percentage points higher than its C-Class sister model.

“Although not quite segment-leading, the CLA is forecast to be the brand’s top residual value sedan across its entire lineup, except for the high-performance C63,” said Eric Ibara, director of residual value consulting at KBB.

“That, of course, could change with the redesign of the C-Class based on the model’s performance and stylistic revisions in relation to any price change.”

KBB senior analyst Karl Brauer added: “Mercedes-Benz is looking to increase its reach in the entry-luxury category with the CLA, and the initial numbers suggest they've succeeded. Though touted as a sub-$30,000 car, the CLA is transacting in the mid-$30,000 range, or at roughly the same price as the outdated C-Class generation.  

“As the newer and arguably more attractive sedan in this price range, the CLA has an advantage over the stodgier C-Class,” he continued. 

“This is clear in the higher residual value and lower incentive spend recorded for the CLA; however, this should change when the all-new C-Class is revealed next week at the Detroit auto show.  Expect Mercedes-Benz to bump the new C-Class' price and drop its incentive spend to distance it from the CLA.”