The new Mercedes-Benz CLA sure sounds special. According to its maker, it’s the ‘cleverest Mercedes-Benz ever made’.
The CLA debuts in all-electric form first while hybrids are on the way too. But the CLA with EQ technology promises next level efficiency, and has a claimed WLTP range of 792km.
M-B says the ‘carbon footprint of the new all-electric CLA is reduced by 40 percent over the entire value chain compared to its non-electrified predecessor’. Impressive. But more so is the low consumption and range of this EV.
The 200kW CLA 250+ with EQ Technology has energy consumption stated between 14.1-12.2kWh/100km and a range of up to 792km WLTP. The 260kW CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology has consumption stated at between 14.7-12.5kWh/100km.
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The 800-volt electric system and new battery tech is said to offer quick recharge rates; 325km of range in 10mins at a 320kW DC pump. The battery pack is a 85kWh (usable) unit and the cells are said to have anodes that mix silicon oxide with graphite resulting in a 20 per cent improvement in energy density.
There is a new two-speed gearbox at the rear axle that ‘combines dynamism with high efficiency in all situations’. According to M-B; “the first gear enables excellent acceleration right from the start, a high towing capacity and it also offers great efficiency in urban traffic. The second gear is designed for power delivery at high speeds and high efficiency on the motorway”.
For ICE lovers, a new ‘high-tech 48-volt hybrid drivetrain’ with three power levels (and the option of FWD and AWD) will be available later in the year. This will have an electric motor integrated into the transmission, allowing for electric drive when ‘less than 20kW is needed’.
The CLA has an in-house developed Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS). This AI-enhanced system enables the vehicle to function as a supercomputer connected to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, allowing for regular over-the-air updates, including driving assistance features.
MB.OS introduces the fourth generation of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), offering a hyper-personalised and intuitive digital experience. It is said to be the first in-car system to integrate AI from both Microsoft and Google, combining multiple AI agents.
The MBUX Superscreen is powered by high-performance chips and the Unity Game Engine. The evolved MBUX Zero Layer presents information and frequently used apps, which M-B says makes navigation easier. Apps can now be organised into custom folders, similar to a smartphone.
The MBUX Virtual Assistant apparently enables complex, natural conversations, retaining short-term memory for a more human-like interaction. Integrated with ChatGPT4o, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini, it provides comprehensive answers, especially for navigation. The assistant appears as a “living” Mercedes-Benz star on the Zero Layer and recognizes emotions during interactions.
MB.DRIVE introduces advanced driving assistance and parking systems. Standard safety features include DISTRONIC Distance Assist, while the optional MB.DRIVE ASSIST enhances driving with Steering Assist and Lane Change Assist. These systems help prevent accidents and improve driving comfort.
The new Mercedes-Benz CLA interior “redefines luxury in its class”, focusing on minimalist design and high-tech elements. There is an optional MBUX Superscreen, spanning the cabin with a 10.25-inch driver display and a 14-inch centre display. A floating centre console features a dual-level design with integrated cup holders and optional wireless charging. Mercedes-Benz offers unique colour and material choices, including new paint options and innovative upholstery. Trim options include open-pore wood, brushed aluminium, and a decorative paper surface.
