Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the all-new CLA, a compact sedan that seamlessly combines exciting technology with an impressive electric driving range.
Following the lukewarm reception of the Mercedes-Benz EQS and EQE, the next-generation CLA marks a fresh start for the brand’s electrification strategy. This sleek long-distance cruiser is the first in an all-new Mercedes-Benz family of vehicles, offering both all-electric and hybrid drivetrains.
What’s in a name?
This shift in direction is also reflected in the naming of the electric versions of the CLA. Rather than adopting a name like “EQA sedan,” Mercedes-Benz has opted for “CLA with EQ Technology”. That’s a bit of a mouthful, so we’ll simply refer to it as the “CLA EQ” for convenience.
Electric first
While a petrol-powered hybrid variant will be available – featuring a conventional hybrid system rather than a plug-in setup – the CLA is designed primarily as an electric vehicle (EV), with combustion power playing a secondary role. This approach sets it apart from many EVs produced by traditional automakers, which often start as internal combustion models and are later adapted for electric propulsion.
Impressive efficiency
The new CLA features an advanced 800-volt electric architecture, doubling the usual 400 volts, which allows for ultra-fast charging. As a result, the CLA 250+ EQ can recharge up to 325 kilometres of range in just 10 minutes, though this rapid charging capability requires high-output fast-charging stations that are not yet available in South Africa.
According to Mercedes-Benz, the CLA boasts a class-leading range of up to 792 km (according to the WLTP standard), making it one of the most practical electric sedans on the market.
A more realistic range claim
There are reasons to believe that this range could be more realistic than the 770 km maximum claimed by Mercedes-Benz for the EQS 450+ at its launch. In reality, however, the car struggled to achieve anything close to that, barely reaching 500 km on a single charge.
We experienced this at first hand in 2023 during a drive from Cape Town to Johannesburg, which took us 19 hours and six minutes. Considering that most of the charging stations could only supply 50 kW of DC power, this time is still impressive.
Two powerful EVs
In addition to the CLA 250+ (with its impressive range), Mercedes-Benz will offer the high-performance CLA 350 4MATIC version which offers 260 kW of power and a 0-100 km/h time of just 4,9 seconds.
Specifications of the two all-electric CLA models at a glance:
| CLA 250+ EQ | CLA 350 4MATIC EQ | |
| Peak power | 200 kW | 260 kW |
| Peak torque | 335 Nm | 515 Nm |
| Battery: usable energy | 85 kWh | 85 kWh |
| Max AC charging | 11 kW | 11 kW |
| Max DC charging | 320 kW | 320 kW |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 6,7 seconds | 4,9 seconds |
| Top speed | 210 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Average energy consumption | 14,1 to 12,2 kWh/100km | 14,7 to 12,5 kWh/100km |
| Range (WLTP) | 694-792 kilometres | 672-771 kilometres |
For those who prefer hybrid power, Mercedes-Benz will also introduce CLA models with 48-volt hybrid technology towards the end of 2025.
Battery and weight
The CLA 250+ and CLA 350 4MATIC are equipped with a lithium-ion battery featuring an energy content of 85 kWh. This new generation battery uses high-density silicon-oxide anodes, which improve efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint, says Mercedes-Benz.
The all-electric CLA 250+ has a kerb weight of approximately 2 000 kg, while the CLA 350 4MATIC is slightly heavier due to its additional all-wheel-drive system. Despite this, Mercedes-Benz claims the CLA’s lightweight yet rigid construction enhances both efficiency and driving dynamics. (We will have to drive the car to find out if this is true.)
For context, the slightly larger Mercedes-Benz C220d weighs 1 755 kg. So why does weight matter? Because a lower weight is generally preferred. It improves road-holding, cornering grip, and energy efficiency, while often enhancing ride comfort as well.
Size comparison
The new CLA is 4 723 mm long, making it 35 mm longer than its predecessor. The wheelbase has grown by 61 mm, now measuring 2 790 mm, which translates to more interior space, particularly for front passengers. Headroom has also increased, with an additional 16 mm in the front and 28 mm in the rear.
When compared to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the new CLA remains slightly smaller but is now closer in size than ever before. The C-Class measures 4 751 mm in length, meaning the CLA is only 28 mm shorter, while the wheelbase of the C-Class is 2 865 mm, just 75 mm longer than the CLA.
Cutting-edge technology
Mercedes-Benz has developed a new operating system, MB.OS, for the CLA, making it one of the most intelligent cars ever produced by the brand. This system integrates AI-powered virtual assistants from Google and Microsoft, allowing for natural, conversational voice commands. Additionally, over-the-air software updates ensure the car remains technologically up-to-date for years to come.
The infotainment experience is further enhanced by the latest MBUX system, which features a fully customisable interface, advanced navigation with Google Maps integration, and a seamless connection to third-party apps. The new MBUX Virtual Assistant, powered by ChatGPT, provides an interactive and highly intuitive user experience, Mercedes says.
Striking design and premium interior
The CLA’s sleek fastback silhouette departs from the bulbous, bow-like roofline of its Mercedes EQE and EQS stablemates. Despite its smaller size and more traditional shape compared to the EQS and EQE models, it achieves an impressive 0,21 drag coefficient. This exceptional aerodynamic efficiency contributes to both energy conservation and a remarkably quiet cabin experience.
Inside, the CLA features a futuristic cockpit with a massive MBUX Superscreen that spans the dashboard, offering a high-tech experience reminiscent of luxury flagship models.
Sustainable materials are used throughout the interior, with eco-friendly trims and high-quality upholstery options. The CLA also offers increased headroom and a spacious layout compared to its predecessor, that was only available with combustion engines.
At the rear, the new electric CLA provides 405 litres of luggage space. Up front, it features a 101-litre “frunk,” perfect for storing a wheeled suitcase or a charging cable, adding extra practicality to its design.
Expected price and market positioning
The new Mercedes-Benz CLA is expected to be priced between R1,2 million and R1,4 million when it arrives in South Africa. Positioned as a premium electric sedan, it will rival the BYD Seal and BMW i4, both excellent products.
With its blend of performance and efficiency, this CLA sets a new benchmark for Mercedes-Benz’s entry-level luxury lineup. Wealthy South African buyers looking for a high-tech, premium electric sedan will soon have an exciting new option in the market.
Stay tuned for official pricing and local specifications closer to the launch date.
