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 impressive WLTP range of up to 492 miles.
• It is slightly larger than its predecessor and will come with either hybrid or all-electric propulsion options.
• It needs to arrive at dealerships by the end of the year.

Mercedes has been generating excitement for 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 of electric or hybrid propulsion systems.
This represents a complete overhaul of Mercedes’ electric vehicle strategy, one that initially had a bumpy beginning.
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It keeps much of the old design aesthetic, yet it’s a larger vehicle with altered dimensions. Standing about one inch higher than its predecessor, this new model has a wheelbase extended by 2.4 inches and is roughly 1.3 inches longer altogether. With a total length of 185.9 inches, it closely matches the size of a
Tesla Model 3
, even though it is approximately 10% heavier.

The inside has been entirely revamped 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 per Mercedes, even spills like coffee won’t damage or discolor this surface.

We’ve discussed
the MMA platform
This foundation supports the newly launched CLA sedan extensively. Additionally, this platform will be utilized in a station wagon variant of the CLA, along with future successors to 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. The larger battery provides the single-engine CLA 250+ an estimated WLTP range of up to 492 miles (792 kilometers) using the more lenient WLTP test cycle. Opting for the stronger dual-engine 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, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.6 seconds. In contrast, the more powerful CLA 350 4Matic, which delivers 349 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, can achieve this acceleration in just 4.8 seconds. However, electronic speed limiters ensure neither variant exceeds 130 mph.

Mercedes has not released any details regarding the smaller 58-kWh LFP battery, which will be installed in the most affordable electric variants.
the new CLA
Models equipped with that pack might experience reduced power output as well. They certainly won’t be able to recharge at the same 320 kilowatts rate as vehicles fitted with NMC batteries, which offer this impressive top speed thanks to the CLA’s design.
800-volt
Architecture. Buyers in North America will have the capability to recharge directly at Tesla Superchargers, thanks to the vehicle’s inclusion of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port.
If you already own a J1772 plug for your home or workplace (which is part of the slower charging system used with CCS), keep in mind that the CLA also includes this type of port.
.

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 emphasized this point when they informed us about it.
The CLA showed remarkable efficiency figures.
during testing, posting a
Lucid-Air-rivaling
5.17 miles per kilowatt-hour (12 kilometers per 100 megajoules).

The electric CLA stands out due to its 2.5-cubic-foot front trunk, enhancing the vehicle’s storage capacity alongside the 14.3-cubic-foot rear compartment. Unlike first-gen Mercedes-EQ models, which lacked such features entirely, the brand has evidently refined its design approach. Despite being marginally bigger overall with an extended wheelbase compared to previous versions, the increased dimensions do not significantly boost interior space within the passenger area.

Mercedes notes that although the new model offers better front and rear headroom, it has reduced rear legroom and shoulder space, with a smaller trunk as well—down by 1.9 cubic feet. Standing at around six feet tall, I found the backseat of the CLA wasn’t particularly spacious. Similar to what we saw in the EQA and EQB, the floor sits quite high, which lifts your knees upward. This leaves insufficient space beneath the front seats for comfortably placing your feet.

The Hybrid CLA

If your interest lies in the new CLA equipped with a hybrid powertrain, you’ll find yourself looking at an ostensibly similar vehicle but riddled with several distinctions. The most significant change involves the entirely revamped floorpan, now free from accommodating a bulky battery. This alteration leads to increased depth in the rear footwell area, rendering the hybrid variant more spacious and thus comfier compared to its all-electric counterpart.

The vehicle gives up its frunk and gets a replacement in the form of a new 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine capable of delivering up to 190 horsepower. Although Mercedes has not released specific details about the CLA hybrid’s specifications, entry-level versions will feature front-wheel drive, with an option for power distribution to the rear wheels as well. In contrast, the CLA EV model equipped with a single motor uses rear-wheel drive and sits noticeably higher due to the incorporation of a battery within its undercarriage.

The simplest way to distinguish between the two models is by viewing their frontal appearance, as each features distinct grille designs. While both incorporate a star motif, the electric vehicle’s grille is entirely sealed with illuminated stars. Additionally, Mercedes is incorporating an illuminated emblem into the CLA; however, the brightness levels 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 efficiency. This engine operates using the Miller cycle and incorporates a 48-volt electrical system designed to manage both the hybrid component of the drivetrain and auxiliary features like air conditioning, ensuring these systems remain functional even when the engine is shut down and the vehicle is operating solely on electric power. According to previous statements from Mercedes, the highest-output variant of this engine—exclusive to the U.S. market—generates 188 horsepower and delivers 221 pound-feet of torque. When paired with an additional hybrid system boosting overall performance, this configuration appears sufficient for robust operation.

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 enables complete decoupling of the engine from the wheels, permitting the vehicle to glide smoothly at speeds up to 62 mph (100 km/h). Beyond this threshold, the engine remains active.

The electric CLA likewise includes a transmission.
a two-speed unit
This operates with the rear motor. Similar to the Porsche Taycan, whose 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 sports steering wheel, heated front seats, single-zone air conditioning, and four rapid-charging USB-C ports capable of delivering up to 100 watts each. In contrast, the Tesla Model 3 offers an even broader array of standard amenities such as ventilated front seats and heated rear seating, a display screen dedicated for passengers at the rear, individual temperature controls specifically designed for them, dual wireless charging stations for phones, and fully automated adjustments across various functions.

Similar to the Model 3, the CLA comes with a full-sized panoramic glass roof as standard equipment. This expansive piece of glass significantly enhances the experience for rear-seat passengers. Just like in the Model 3, there is no shade available for this sunroof. Mercedes claims that their treatment of the glass eliminates the necessity for a cover. Despite Tesla making similar statements regarding the Model 3 and experiencing overheating issues during hot weather, we remain skeptical of Mercedes’ claim 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 introduced. The dashboard consists of a singular, uninterrupted panel featuring two or three displays. The driver benefits from a 10.25-inch screen alongside a larger 14-inch center display. Additionally, an optional feature allows for installing another 14-inch screen in front of the passenger seat, providing nearly identical features to those found on the main central screen.

More Mercedes CLA Stories

• The Latest Mercedes-Benz CLA Targets Superior Energy Efficiency Over Lucid
• The Mercedes CLA EV Will Feature Both Tesla NACS and Type 1 (J1772) Connectors (UPDATE)
• Mercedes Hints at Heavily Camouflated 2026 CLA Hybrid Sedan
• Streamlined New Affordable Mercedes CLA Electric Vehicle Seen as Tesla Model 3 Competitor [Video]
• Multichannel Battery Systems, Solar Coating: Mercedes’ Perspective On Tomorrow
• How Mercedes’ Wildest Experiment Led to Its Most Crucial Electric Vehicle Until Now

Mercedes claims it has enhanced the upscale feel inside compared to the previous version, and this is evident from both the touchable quality of the materials used and the thoughtful layout. Nevertheless, certain features like rear air conditioning controls are missing, highlighting its more basic trim level. This includes just two buttons on the driver’s door for operating all four windows. On the plus side, there’s abundant ambient lighting that stretches across the lower part of the dashboard, extends around the front doors, and even illuminates the central console area.

The inclusion of the optional Bowers & Wilkins audio system paired with Dolby Atmos is truly standout and an essential feature for the latest CLA model.

With its
EQXX
-Driven design and technology make the CLA a significant advancement for the brand, but its ultimate success hinges on its price tag. While Mercedes has not disclosed the pricing as of now, more information including the cost is expected to be unveiled over the coming months. Should it prove affordable, this vehicle could truly resonate with consumers.