Mercedes is moving away from the oval-shaped design approach and incorporating hybrid options into its electric vehicles.
- The latest Mercedes CLA EV boasts an impressiveWLTP range of up to 492 miles.
- It's slightly larger than its predecessor and will come with either hybrid or all-electric options.
- It needs to arrive at dealerships before the year ends.
Mercedes has been generating excitement around the new CLA over several months, and now we can finally uncover what all the fuss was about. This third-generation CLA represents an entirely fresh design, constructed on a brand-new platform and offered with options for either electric or hybrid propulsion systems. This represents a complete overhaul of Mercedes' electric vehicle strategy, one that initially had a bumpy beginning. .
It keeps much of the old design style, yet it's a larger vehicle with altered dimensions. Standing about an inch higher than its predecessor, this new model comes with a 2.4-inch extended wheelbase and is roughly 1.3 inches longer altogether. With a total length of 185.9 inches, it's almost exactly the same size as a Tesla Model 3 , even though it is approximately 10% heavier.
The inside has been entirely refreshed and now includes Mercedes' latest entertainment setup, capable of incorporating as many as three displays upfront. The CLA’s cockpit boasts premium materials designed for an upscale experience; notably, one material derived from recycled paper offers both aesthetic appeal and tactile comfort. As claimed by Mercedes, this particular surface resists staining even when exposed to spills like coffee.
We’ve discussed the MMA platform This foundation supports the newly launched CLA sedan extensively. Additionally, it will be utilized in a station wagon variant of the CLA, along with future replacements for the present model. EQA and EQB crossovers (though with different names) The latter should provide a seating arrangement for seven people similar to the currently available model.
The Electric CLA
The electric variant of the CLA will come equipped with two battery options: 58 kilowatt-hours or 85 kWh. This larger battery provides the single-engine CLA 250+ an estimated WLTP driving range of up to 492 miles (792 kilometers) using the more lenient WLTP test cycle. Opting for the stronger twin-motor CLA 350 4Matic slightly reduces this range to 479 miles (771 km).
At launch, the CLA 250+ will serve as the entry-level model, offering 268 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, with an expected acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. In contrast, the CLA 350 4Matic, which boasts 349 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, can achieve this same sprint in just 4.8 seconds. However, both versions have their top speeds electronically capped at 130 mph.
Mercedes has not released any details regarding the smaller 58-kWh LFP battery, which will be included in the most affordable electric variants. the new CLA Models equipped with that pack might experience reduced power output as well. It’s certain they won’t be able to recharge at the same 320 kilowatts rate as vehicles fitted with NMC batteries, which offer this remarkable high-speed charging thanks to the CLA's design. 800-volt Architecture. Buyers in North America will have the convenience of charging directly at Tesla Superchargers, thanks to the vehicle’s inclusion of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector. If you already own a J1772 plug for home or workplace use (which is part of the slower charging aspect of CCS), keep in mind that the CLA also includes one of these connectors. .
Mercedes CLA (2025)
Mercedes CLA (2025)
An additional benefit of the 800-volt architecture is enhanced operational efficiency, which helps explain how the CLA manages to achieve nearly 800 kilometers with an 85 kWh battery capacity. Mercedes was keen to highlight this fact during our briefing. The CLA demonstrated remarkable efficiency figures. during testing, posting a Lucid-Air-rivaling 5.17 miles per kilowatt-hour (12 kilometers per 100 megajoules).
A distinctive aspect of the electric CLA is its 2.5-cubic-foot front trunk, adding to the 14.3-cubic-foot rear storage space. The earlier models from the first generation of Mercedes-EQ vehicles did not include such frontal compartments, indicating an enhancement in design efficiency by Mercedes. Despite being marginally bigger overall, featuring a lengthened wheelbase, the enhanced dimensions do not significantly increase the internal cabin space for passengers and cargo.
Mercedes notes that although the new model offers enhanced front and rear headroom, it has reduced rear legroom and shoulder space. Additionally, the trunk capacity is 1.9 cubic feet smaller. At around six feet tall, I found the backseat of the CLA wasn't particularly spacious. Similar to what we see in the EQA and EQB models, the floor sits quite high, elevating your legs unnaturally. This means there isn’t sufficient clearance beneath the front seats for comfortably placing your feet underneath them.
The Hybrid CLA
If you're interested in getting the new CLA with a hybrid powertrain, you'll find a vehicle that appears similar at first glance but has several notable distinctions. The most significant difference lies in the entirely revamped floorpan, which doesn’t have to accommodate a battery anymore. This change leads to increased depth in the rear footwell area, enhancing comfort for passengers compared to its fully electric counterpart.
The vehicle gives up its frunk and instead features a new 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine capable of producing up to 190 horsepower. While Mercedes has not released specific details about the CLA hybrid’s specifications, entry-level versions will come with front-wheel drive, with an option for power delivery to the rear wheels as well. In contrast, the CLA EV with a single motor uses rear-wheel drive and sits noticeably higher due to the placement of the battery under the floor.
The most straightforward way to distinguish between the two models is by viewing their frontal appearance, as they feature distinct grill patterns. Although both incorporate a star motif, the electric version boasts a fully enclosed grill with glowing stars. Additionally, Mercedes is incorporating an illuminated emblem in the CLA; however, the intensity of this lighting may vary based on regional markets.
Mercedes created the 1.5-liter M252 four-cylinder engine for their upcoming range of affordable cars, focusing on fuel economy. This engine operates using the Miller cycle and incorporates a 48-volt electric system designed to manage both the hybrid component of the drivetrain and auxiliary systems like air conditioning; these can function independently even when the engine itself is shut down and the vehicle relies solely on electric propulsion. According to previous statements from Mercedes, the highest-output variant of this engine—which will be exclusively available in the United States—produces approximately 188 horsepower and delivers around 221 pound-feet of torque. When combined with additional hybrid assistance boosting overall output, this configuration seems robust enough for various driving needs.
All CLA hybrid models will feature an identical eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, Mercedes claims it functions more like a three-clutch system due to the integration of the electric drive motor. This additional clutch allows for complete decoupling of the engine from the wheels, enabling the vehicle to glide smoothly up to speeds of 62 mph (100 km/h) without using the gasoline engine. Beyond this threshold, the engine remains active.
The electric CLA also features a transmission. a two-speed unit This operates with the rear motor. It’s akin to the Porsche Taycan, where the transmission is designed to boost acceleration without sacrificing high-speed cruising efficiency.
Toys
Mercedes states that none of its competitors match the CLA’s extensive list of standard features. Every car comes equipped with LED headlights, power-folding side mirrors, a sport steering wheel, heated front seats, single-zone climate control, and four rapid-charging USB-C ports capable of delivering up to 100 watts each. In contrast, the Tesla Model 3 offers an even greater array of standard amenities such as ventilated front seats along with heated rear ones, a display specifically designed for passengers at the back seat area, additional controls for a third climate zone, dual wireless smartphone chargers, and electronically adjustable components throughout.
Similar to the Model 3, the CLA comes with a full-sized panoramic glass roof as standard equipment. This extensive glass area significantly enhances the comfort of sitting in the rear seats. Just like in the Model 3, there is no sunshade for this glass roof. Mercedes claims that their treatment of the glass eliminates the necessity for a shade. However, since Tesla has made similar assurances regarding the Model 3 but riders often find themselves overheated during summertime, we're not inclined to readily accept Mercedes' statement on this matter.
If you're fond of displays, you'll appreciate the CLA, which makes its debut Mercedes A fresh approach to interior styling has been adopted. The dashboard consists of a singular, uninterrupted flat panel featuring two or three displays. The driver will have access to a 10.25-inch screen alongside a larger 14-inch center screen. Additionally, an optional feature allows for another 14-inch screen to be installed in front of the passenger seat, providing similar functionalities to the main central display.
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Mercedes claims it has enhanced the upscale feel inside compared to the previous version, and this is evident with the high-quality materials used throughout as well as the thoughtful layout. Nonetheless, features like rear air conditioning knobs are missing due to its status as an entry-level vehicle. Notably, just two buttons on the driver's door handle manage all four window functions. On the bright side, generous ambient lighting enhances the cabin experience; you can find these lights beneath the primary dashboard, around the front doors, and within the central console area.
The optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system with Dolby Atmos is a real highlight and definitely a must-have option on the new CLA.
With its EQXX -Driven design and technology elevate the CLA as a leap ahead for the brand, yet its ultimate triumph hinges on its cost. While Mercedes has not unveiled the prices just yet, they are expected to be disclosed within the coming months alongside more specifics regarding the model. Should it prove affordable, Mercedes might well find itself with quite the winner on their hands.