Mercedes-Benz have unveiled the 2025 CLA, their all-new entry-level luxury sedan. The new generation CLA debuts with both fully electric (CLA EV) and hybrid powertrains, marking a significant shift in Mercedes’ strategy towards integrated EV and combustion models.
2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA – EV Range And Performance
The all-electric CLA EV offers an impressive range and efficiency. The entry-level CLA 250+ with EQ Technology offers a claimed range of 792km (WLTP), surpassing even the flagship EQS sedan. This exceptional range is attributed to the CLA EV’s optimised 85kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery and efficient powertrain.
- RWD and AWD Options: The CLA EV is available in rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations.
- Powerful Electric Motors: The rear-mounted permanent magnet motor delivers 272PS in the CLA 250+, enabling a 0-100kph sprint in 6.7 seconds. The CLA 350 4Matic with EQ Technology adds a front-axle motor, boosting output to 354PS and reducing the 0-100kph time to 4.9 seconds.
- 800V Architecture and Fast Charging: The CLA EV features an 800V electrical architecture, supporting fast charging at up to 320kW. This allows for a 300km range boost in just 10 minutes.
- Regenerative Braking: The new CLA EV utilises regenerative braking, capable of up to 200kW, to maximize energy recovery.
2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA Hybrid Powertrain
Alongside the CLA EV, Mercedes-Benz also introduced the CLA hybrid, promising “diesel levels of fuel efficiency.” This hybrid variant features:
- 1.5L Petrol Engine and Electric Motor: A new 1.5L 4-cylinder petrol engine is paired with a 1.3kWh battery and a 27PS electric motor.
- Various Power Outputs: The hybrid CLA offers power outputs of 136PS, 163PS (front-wheel-drive), and 191PS (all-wheel-drive).
2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA New Design Offers Improved Aerodynamics
The 2025 CLA boasts a sleek, aerodynamic design, achieving a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.21. Notable design features include:
- Shared Design Language: The CLA EV and hybrid share a nearly identical design, a first for Mercedes.
- Distinctive Lighting: The CLA features distinctive lighting elements, with the EV showcasing a flush front grille with 142 backlit stars.
- Increased Dimensions: The new CLA is larger than its predecessor, offering increased interior space.
2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA Interior And Technology
The CLA’s interior showcases a modern and sporty design, featuring:
- Superscreen Display: The dashboard is dominated by the latest iteration of Mercedes’ Superscreen, comprising 3 digital displays.
- MB.OS Operating System: The new CLA features the new MB.OS operating system, incorporating AI functionalities (ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Bing).
- Enhanced Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
- Frunk: The CLA EV features a 101-litre front trunk (frunk). The boot space is rated at 405 litres.
India Launch And Expected Prices
The CLA EV will launch in Europe around October 2025, with the hybrid variant following shortly after. The CLA sedan is expected to arrive in India by the end of 2025 or early 2026, replacing the current A-Class sedan. We expect the 2025 CLA hybrid to cost around Rs. 45 lakh to Rs. 50 lakh (ex-showroom), while the CLA EV could carry a price tag of Rs. 60 lakh. The CLA hybrid will rival the Toyota Camry hybrid and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, while the CLA EV will take on the BYD Seal, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Kia EV6, which is set to get a facelift soon.
Also Read: Top 12 Electric Cars (EVs) Under Rs. 20.0 Lakh In India
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