Mercedes has introduced the new CLA, the third generation of its compact four-door coupe. It’s also the first model under the brand’s new strategy, which uses the same platform (MMA) for both gasoline and electric powertrains to cut development costs following disappointment with its dedicated EQ electric lineup.
Larger dimensions, improved aerodynamics
The new CLA is larger than its predecessor: 3.5 cm (1.4 in) longer at 472 cm (185.8 in), 2.5 cm (1 in) wider at 185.5 cm (73 in) and 3.5 cm (1.4 in) taller at 147 cm (57.9 in). Despite the size increase, its drag coefficient is significantly lower (0.21), outperforming the Tesla Model 3 (0.23) and Hyundai Ioniq 6 (0.22).
The wheelbase is also 6 cm (2.4 in) longer at 279 cm (109.8 in), promising better rear-seat space. The trunk is slightly smaller at 405 liters (14.3 cu ft), but the electric version adds a 101-liter (3.6 cu ft) front trunk — the first in a Mercedes.
The electric CLA features an all-new powertrain. The base model has a rear-mounted motor producing 272 hp, using a two-speed transmission that Mercedes claims delivers an ultra-high 93% energy efficiency from the battery to the wheels.
An all-wheel-drive version adds a front motor (108 hp) for a combined 353 hp. The front motor engages mainly during hard acceleration, cutting the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time to 4.9 seconds — 1.8 seconds quicker than the rear-wheel-drive variant. Under low loads, it disconnects to reduce energy consumption.
An 85-kWh battery provides an estimated range of 792 km (492 miles) for the base model and 771 km (479 miles) for the AWD version, surpassing direct rivals and even the larger, pricier EQS. A smaller 58-kWh battery option will follow, though Mercedes hasn’t released full specifications.
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The CLA is Mercedes’ first model with an 800V architecture, enabling ultra-fast 320-kW charging — adding over 300 km (186 miles) of range in under 10 minutes. The battery also supports bidirectional charging for home power supply (V2H) and external devices (V2G).
Mercedes’ familiar regenerative braking system offers three manual levels via the drive selector (forward-reverse-park) and can decelerate up to 3 m/s². An automatic mode adjusts braking intensity using radar and navigation data.
The CLA integrates both regenerative and mechanical braking into a single control unit, eliminating a mechanical connection between the brake pedal and calipers. This is intended to improve pedal feel, a weak point in previous systems.
Mercedes will also offer the CLA with a new turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine (M252) in multiple output levels. It features a 48V mild-hybrid system and an integrated electric motor within an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The CLA retains styling elements from its concept version, including headlights with integrated star-shaped LEDs, an illuminated front grille, retractable door handles and frameless side windows. The electric version features a sealed grille with an animated star pattern.
Inside the model’s interior, the driver’s display is 10.25 inches while two 14-inch touchscreens are available — one in the center console and an optional passenger display. The infotainment system is AI-powered and integrates data from ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google.
Mercedes stresses sustainability, saying that the electric CLA’s carbon footprint — from production to end-of-life — is 40% lower than its predecessor due to extensive use of recycled materials.
A critical shift for Mercedes
Strategically, the CLA marks a major shift for Mercedes, which struggled with the controversial design of its EQ models. By integrating gasoline and electric powertrains into familiar lineups, the brand aims to regain ground.
Despite the visual similarity between electric and gasoline versions, the CLA incorporates cutting-edge tech — some features even surpass those in the flagship EQS. This could help reestablish Mercedes as an industry leader, a status that legacy automakers have struggled to maintain against a flood of Chinese EV competitors.
If Mercedes can price the CLA competitively against mainstream rivals, it could become a bestseller. If not, the brand may face serious challenges.