The Mercedes-Benz CLA heralds the next-generation in the brand’s design language and product philosophy.
Ever since Mercedes-Benz found their stride it has been the ‘CL’ cars that define the direction of the entire model range. First it was the CLS that paved the way for sleeker large sedans like the W221 and W222 S-Class then came the first-generation CLA that informed the design of hyper successful compact premium A-Class W176 generation. Now we’re getting a preview of the future of the brand with an all-new 3rd generation CLA model and boy does it shake things up.
The first aspect we have to talk about is design. There’s no running away from that combination of the ‘star panel’ grille and the LED light bar. It’s definitely distinct from what’s currently available on the market but we’ll have to see it in the metal before judging. Many Mercedes-Benz designs come alive in motion but look strange in photos.
What you should know is that it’s a pretty high-tech grille that incorporates 142 individually animated LED chrome-effect stars. Besides that, you get a ‘GT’ inspired rear look with short overhangs, new-generation light graphic signatures, sculpted surfaces with even fewer lines and more precise joints than before, and a long bonnet. Another new signature coming to the CLA is the standard panoramic roof which consists of a single piece of glass with no central brace and increased headroom. The glass is heat-insulating, laminated with infrared film to protect against sunlight and heat.
Inside, there’s a floating MBUX Superscreen with a 10.25″ driver display and a 14″ infotainment unit. An additional 14″ display will be optionally available for the front passenger. The centre console has been designed to appear to float.
There’s an integrated double cup holder, optional wireless charging cradle, large leather-clad door panels, and more interesting design elements in this generation.
Besides the design, it should be noted that this new CLA comes with an all-electric variant as its hero model. This will be complemented by other hybrid variants later on. This will be the first ever all-electric CLA and the first ever electric Mercedes-Benz to not feature EQ nomenclature, hinting at the future direction of electrification for the brand.
There are two electric models mentioned:the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology (200 kW, up to 792 km range) and the CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology (260 kW, positioned as the performance variant). Here’s what they have to offer.
- 800-volt electric architecture enabling fast DC charging up to 320 kW
- Ability to recharge for up to 325 kilometers of range in just ten minutes
- New lithium-ion battery generation with 85 kWh usable energy content
- Silicon oxide and graphite mixed anodes that increase energy density by up to 20%
- Improved volumetric energy density of 680 Wh/l with reduced cobalt content
- Two-speed transmission at the rear axle that combines dynamic performance with efficiency
- First gear optimized for acceleration and urban traffic efficiency
- Second gear designed for high-speed driving, range, and highway efficiency
- Standard multi-source air-to-air heat pump that utilizes waste heat from the drivetrain, battery, and ambient air
- The heat pump requires only one-third of the energy a comparable auxiliary heater would need
Hybrid variants will also come later on in 2025 with 48-volt tech and electric motors integrated within the transmission. There will be FWD and 4MATIC AWD variants. EV cruising on the hybrid cars will be available up to 100km/h. Energy recuperation will be possible across all gear ratios, which is a new feature.
