New Mercedes-Benz CLA charges faster than you can finish a cup of coffee

March 14, 2025

Streamlined and full of stars

Because the CLA will also be marketed as an EV, the designers spent extra time in the wind tunnel. The result? A streamlined design with an air resistance coefficient of just 0.21. The electric version gets a closed grille with 142 illuminated Mercedes stars. The headlights and taillights also have a star-shaped light signature, making the CLA instantly recognizable even in the dark. The CLA has grown slightly from its predecessor. The wheelbase is four centimeters longer and in total it measures an additional six centimeters in length.

Interior: a cinema on wheels

Inside, Mercedes stays true to luxury, but with a hefty dose of technology. The optional MBUX Superscreen dominates the dashboard, with a 10.25-inch screen for the driver, a 14-inch infotainment screen in the middle and another 14-inch screen for the passenger. So the latter can enjoy watching movies or gaming on the road.

In terms of materials, Mercedes offers a wide palette, ranging from aluminum and wood to a sustainable mix of paper and hemp. Thanks to the longer wheelbase, there’s just a bit more legroom up front, while the standard panoramic roof makes the interior feel roomier and lighter. The luggage space is slightly reduced, but Mercedes compensates with a large frunk (front luggage compartment) that holds about 100 liters of stuff.

Electric or hybrid: plenty of choice

The new CLA will initially come as an all-electric version. The CLA 250+ gets an electric motor on the rear axle that delivers 197 kW (268 hp). It uses a two-speed gearbox, which Mercedes says gives you extra smooth acceleration while remaining efficient at speed. The sprint to 100 km/h takes 6.6 seconds.

For those who want even more power, there is the CLA 350 4Matic. This has an additional electric motor on the front axle, bringing total power to 256 kW (349 hp). With all-wheel drive and a 0-100 km/h time of 4.8 seconds, this CLA is a lot spicier.

CLA 250+ – 197 kW (268 hp), rear-wheel drive

CLA 350 4Matic – 256 kW (349 hp), all-wheel drive

Both models get an 85 kWh battery with a driving range of up to 792 kilometers (WLTP). Thanks to 800V technology and a charging capacity of more than 300 kW, you can recharge in 10 minutes for up to 325 kilometers – unique in this segment.

A hybrid variant with a 48V system will follow later, allowing you to travel short distances electrically, while a gasoline engine provides support on longer trips.

Safety

When it comes to safety, Mercedes leaves nothing to chance. As standard, the CLA has Distronic (Mercedes-speak for adaptive cruise control) and the optional MB.Drive, which even allows you to drive hands-free in certain situations.

A first in this segment is the center airbag, which provides additional protection between the driver and passenger in the event of a side impact. In addition, the CLA makes lane changes easier: tap the turn signal and the car does the rest.

Prices Mercedes-Benz will announce at a later date.