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's slightly larger than its predecessor and will come with either hybrid or all-electric propulsion 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 buzz was about. This third-generation CLA represents an entirely fresh design, constructed on a brand-new platform and offered with options of either electric or hybrid propulsion systems. This represents a complete overhaul of Mercedes' electric vehicle strategy, which initially faced significant challenges. .
It maintains certain design elements from the earlier version, yet it stands as a larger vehicle with distinct measurements. Standing about one inch higher compared to its predecessor, this new model boasts a 2.4-inch extended wheelbase and is roughly 1.3 inches longer altogether. With a total length of 185.9 inches, it closely mirrors the dimensions of a Tesla Model 3 , even though they're about 10% heavier.
The inside has been entirely revamped and now includes Mercedes' latest entertainment setup capable of accommodating as many as three displays upfront. The CLA’s cockpit boasts premium materials designed for an upscale experience; notably, one material derived from reclaimed 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 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 current model available now.
The Electric CLA
The electric variant of the CLA will come equipped with two different battery capacities: either 58 kilowatt-hours or 85 kWh. The larger battery provides the single-engine CLA 250+ model with an advertised WLTP range of approximately 492 miles (792 kilometers), based on the more lenient WLTP testing cycle. Opting for the stronger twin-motor CLA 350 4Matic reduces this estimated range slightly to around 479 miles (771 kilometers).
At launch, the CLA 250+ will serve as the entry-level model, offering 268 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, with an estimated acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. In contrast, the CLA 350 4Matic, which boasts 349 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, slashes this time down to 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 featured 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 charging speed 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 your home or workplace (which is part of the slower charging system in CCS), keep in mind that the CLA also includes this type of port. .
Mercedes CLA (2025)
Mercedes CLA (2025)
An additional benefit of the 800-volt architecture is enhanced operational efficiency, which helps clarify how the CLA manages to achieve nearly 800 kilometers with an 85 kWh battery capacity. Mercedes emphasized this point for our understanding. The CLA showed remarkable efficiency figures. during testing, posting a Lucid-Air-rivaling 5.17 miles per kilowatt-hour (12 kWh per 100 kilometers).
The electric CLA stands out due to its 2.5-cubic-foot front trunk, enhancing the utility alongside the 14.3-cubic-foot rear storage space. The initial generation of Mercedes-EQ vehicles lacked such frontal compartments entirely, indicating significant progress in design efficiency from Mercedes. Although the updated CLA model boasts an extended wheelbase compared to its predecessor—making it somewhat bigger overall—the additional length does not notably increase passenger compartment volume.
Mercedes notes that although the new model offers better front and rear headroom, it has reduced rear legroom and shoulder space, with a trunk that is 1.9 cubic feet smaller as well. Standing 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 unusually high, elevating your legs. This leaves insufficient clearance beneath the front seats for you to comfortably tuck your feet underneath.
The Hybrid CLA
If you opt for the new CLA with a hybrid powertrain, you'll see a vehicle that appears similar but has several distinct variations. The most significant change is the entirely revamped floorpan, which no longer requires space for a battery. This alteration leads to roomier rear footwells, enhancing comfort compared to its fully electric counterpart.
The vehicle gives up its frunk, making room for a new 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine capable of producing up to 190 horsepower. While Mercedes has not released details about the specifications of the CLA hybrid yet, base versions will come equipped with front-wheel drive, though power can be directed to the rear wheels as an option. In contrast, the CLA EV model featuring a single motor operates exclusively in rear-wheel-drive mode and sits noticeably higher off the ground due to the placement of the battery within the floorpan.
The most straightforward way to distinguish between the two models is by observing their frontal view, as each features distinct radiator grilles. Although 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 intensity of this lighting may vary based on regional markets.
Mercedes developed the 1.5-liter M252 four-cylinder engine for its new line of entry-level models with efficiency in mind. It runs on the Miller cycle, and it uses a 48-volt electrical system to power not only the hybrid part of the powertrain but also to run the air conditioning, which remains active even when the engine is off and the car is running only on electricity. Mercedes has previously said that the most powerful version of the engine—the only version slated for the U.S.—will make 188 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. Combined with a hybrid system making more power, that should be plenty.
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 at speeds up to 62 mph (100 km/h). Beyond this threshold, the engine remains engaged.
The electric CLA likewise features a transmission. a two-speed unit This operates with the rear motor. Similar to the Porsche Taycan, its 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 with LED headlamps, power-foldable side mirrors, a sports steering wheel, heated front seating, single-zone air conditioning, and four rapid-charging USB-C ports capable of delivering 100 watts each. In contrast, the Tesla Model 3 includes significantly more standard amenities such as ventilated front seats and warmed rear seats, an additional display for passengers at the back, their own dedicated climate control zone, dual wireless smartphone chargers, and electronically adjustable controls throughout.
Similar to the Model 3, the CLA comes with a full-sized panoramic glass roof as standard equipment. This expansive glass pane significantly enhances the experience of sitting in the rear seats. Much 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. However, considering Tesla asserts the same about the Model 3 but riders can still feel quite hot during summertime, we remain skeptical regarding Mercedes' claim here.
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 features a seamless flat surface housing either two or three displays. The driver benefits from a 10.25-inch screen alongside a larger 14-inch center display. Additionally, an optional second 14-inch screen can be installed for the front-seat passenger, providing nearly identical functions as the main central screen.
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Mercedes claims it has enhanced the upscale feel inside compared to the previous version, and this is evident from the quality materials used and the thoughtful layout. Nevertheless, the lack of individual temperature settings for the back seats and just two buttons on the driver's door controlling all four window functions hints at its budget-friendly status. On a brighter note, there's ample ambient lighting that traces the lower edge of the primary dashboard, extends across the front door panels, and illuminates the central console area.
The inclusion of the optional Bowers & Wilkins audio system paired with Dolby Atmos is truly noteworthy 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 prices as of now, they are expected to announce them along with more specifics regarding the model within the coming months. Should it turn out to be affordable, Mercedes might indeed find itself with quite an impressive winner on their hands.
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