Performance Benefits
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Quicker throttle response — because your engine isn’t starving for air anymore.
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Real airflow improvement = more efficient combustion and usable power gains.
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A deeper, more aggressive induction sound under throttle (yes, it finally sounds like you meant business).
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Maintenance-friendly filter means fewer wardrobe changes for your engine bay.
The AEM 21-781DS Performance Cold Air Intake System produces horsepower and torque gains by replacing your vehicle’s restrictive factory air filter and air intake housing. This air intake system was designed, tuned and dyno-tested to fit specific Mercedes Benz CLA250 models. Air enters the system from the factory fresh air inlets, through replacement air ducts and into a roto-molded, aerodynamic AEM air box containing an oversized AEM Dry flow synthetic washable air filter for outstanding air flow, filtration and performance.
Installation & Fitment Notes
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Installation is straightforward: moderate tools, basic mechanical sense. Should be a Saturday afternoon project.
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Confirm your engine is the 2.0L M270 turbo in the CLA250 or GLA250 — wrong engine, wrong kit.
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Note: This kit is not CARB approved for California on pollution-controlled vehicles in all configurations. It may be legal in other states or on non-emissions-vehicles.
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After install check for any clearance issues around the airbox, ensure the filter isn’t obstructed by wheel-well splash guard or engine components.
This air intake system was developed to accommodate the engine’s factory emissions control devices including the ECU. The tapered cylinder shaped AEM Dry flow air filter is made from an oil-free, synthetic filter media that can be used for up to 100,000 miles before cleaning is needed (depending on driving conditions). The air intake system is easy to install with commonly available tools and it is backed by AEM’s Lifetime Limited Warranty. Some AEM air intakes are not legal for sale or use in California and other states adopting California emission standards, while others are 50 state legal. View the 21-781DS vehicle applications to determine the legal status for each vehicle.
Final Verdict
If you drive a CLA250 or GLA250 with the 2.0L turbo and you’re ready to give your intake real airflow, better sound, and a nicer under-hood look without going full track monster, the AEM 21-781DS is a smart, high-quality upgrade.
Yes: it’s silver, yes: it’s performance-oriented, yes: your sarcastic self will nod approvingly at the build quality — and your engineer self will like that it’s been dyno-tested.
James B. Harris Jr. –
Fit a 2020 GLA250 Perfectly. Install was straight forward with step by step instructions.
david –
Looks very good
Kimo –
So, I ordered this for my cla250 and looked good out of the box, after installing and getting to the last step of installation where I was supposed to mount the support tab to the radiator frame, I then noticed the mounting arm/tab has been removed/shaved off with some numbers written there with a sharpie.So, I filed for a return/replacement and just got the new one today…. well same issue. As you can see in the last 2 pictures that same tab has been sheered off and is not there. I would expect a reputable company such as AEM that makes a lot for a car like a Mercedes would have better quality control and standards. I will be returning yet again this one and probably just throw in the towel with the original one and live with the broken tab. Oh well.
JD –
This item was supposed to fit my car but didn’t. I returned the item but was charged a $180 restocking fee.
Jon –
Missing bolts. Wasn’t able to put together because I’m missing 4 main bolts. If you’re going to send a CAI. Send all the pieces please.
Yes! –
Could be 5 stars product if I didn’t have to drill a hole where it supposed to be one and wish the instructions could be better. As far for the design and performance, it looks good and I like the dual air vents. This will definitely deliver more air to the intake than stock.