Say hello to the new Mercedes-Benz CLA! The entry point to the brand just got a serious upgrade. But this is much more than a simple model update. The #CLA is the first car signalling an all-new direction for #mercedes Benz across design, technology, and drivetrain strategy. In many ways, it’s a return to what #MercedesBenz should be.
And the biggest shift? Drivetrains. Instead of forcing the EQ branded EV-only future, Mercedes is taking a customer-first approach, offering both electric and combustion options on the same platform. That means you can choose between an all-new 800V EV system with up to 792 km (492 miles) of range or a next-gen hybrid with extended electric driving capability. But how does it all come together? Let’s take a deep dive into the new CLA and what it means for Mercedes’ future.
The other big change is the design language. Instead of the soap-shaped EQ models, Mercedes is doubling down on its classic body shapes while refining aerodynamics. The new face of the CLA will also trickle down to other models in the company. Inside, the CLA debuts a new MBUX system with a superscreen and full integration of ChatGPT, Gemini, and Bing AI into a single intelligent Mercedes Assistant.
⭐️ A New Design Philosophy
The EQ naming era is over. No more EQA, EQC, or EQE—the CLA is simply the CLA. Future models will follow suit, giving buyers the choice of EV or combustion without confusing nameplates.
And unlike recent EQ models, the new CLA sticks to classic Mercedes proportions. It retains its sleek four-door coupe silhouette, growing slightly in length and wheelbase for more cabin space while achieving an impressive 0.21 drag coefficient.
Mercedes could have launched an entry-level A-Class sedan, but instead, they chose to focus on fewer, more valuable models—a sign of their shift toward better differentiation and a refined lineup.
The new CLA rides on the MMA platform (Mercedes Modular Architecture), supporting both EV and combustion models. The electric versions introduce a revolutionary 800V battery system, bringing faster charging and longer range.
CLA 250+
268 hp, 85.5 kWh battery
0–60 mph: 6.7 sec
Range: 792 km (492 miles, WLTP)
CLA 350 4MATIC
349 hp, Dual Motor AWD
0–60 mph: 4.9 sec
Range: 770 km (478 miles, WLTP)
Performance should be strong, with a new rear-drive motor featuring silicon carbide inverters and a 2-speed gearbox. With 320 kW ultra-fast charging, the CLA can gain 300 km (186 miles) of range in just 10 minutes—a figure normally associated with refuelling a combustion car. That’s far beyond what most EVs offer today, especially in this entry class. Mercedes has also focused heavily on efficiency, with braking almost entirely by recuperation, and achieving 4.5 to 5 miles per kWh—one of the best figures in the industry.
But what about those who aren’t ready for EVs? The new CLA Mild-Hybrid also arrives later this year, featuring a next-gen 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder paired with a 48V mild hybrid system.
Unlike traditional hybrids, this system offers limited Electric-only city driving, Regenerative braking across all gears and Fuel efficiency comparable to a diesel.
The compact M252 engine is crazy small. Built in teh Geely factory, but designed wholly by Mercedes Benz: it takes up minimal space, basically fitting in the frunk of the EV model. With an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and electric coasting up to 100 km/h, and hopefully a lower price tag.
💺 🖥️ Interior – The Smartest Mercedes Ever
The new CLA debuts MBUX 4.0, built on Mercedes’ MB.OS system. This introduces Full integration of all Major AI brands with ChatGPT, Bing AI, and Google Gemini - all under the Mercedes Personal assistant. We have a new Superscreen spanning the dashboard, reminiscent of the EQXX, and refinement much higher than seen before in class.
With MB.DRIVE, the CLA also moves closer to Level 2+ autonomous driving, offering advanced driver assistance and real-time navigation enhancements.
This is just the start. More models are on the way, including a Shooting Brake version and a new compact SUV. And on the performance side? A high-performance AMG CLA with over 400 kW (536 hp) is already confirmed.
Much more in the video! Feels like this might be the right first step in a much needed new direction for Mercedes Benz, let us know what you think!
