Overview
The Mercedes-AMG CLA Shooting Brake Electric represents Affalterbach's high-performance entry into the premium electric estate segment. Positioned as the halo performance flagship above standard CLA Shooting Brake models, this electric variant blends classic estate proportions with cutting-edge electric motorsport engineering. Built on the MMA architecture, it sits in a unique niche, rivaling high-performance electric saloons like the BMW i5 Touring M60 and Porsche Taycan Turismo by providing true track-capable performance alongside estate versatility.
Design
Exterior aesthetics combine the sweeping silhouette of a traditional shooting brake with muscular AMG styling. Up front, the vehicle features an AMG-specific radiator panel with vertical struts, a pronounced shark nose, and a front splitter designed to optimize high-speed airflow. The front wings are widened by 24mm over standard models to accommodate a broader track and wider light-alloy wheels. Active radiator fins and underbody aerodynamics automatically adjust position based on speed and drive modes to optimize stability or reduce drag. At the rear, dynamic LED tail lamps seamlessly integrate into a continuous light strip spanning the tailgate.
Interior
The driver-focused cabin merges luxury technology with track-inspired elements. Driver and front passenger sit in anatomically sculpted AMG sports seats offering firm lateral support. The dashboard is dominated by the optional MBUX Superscreen, housing zero-layer menu architecture alongside AMG-specific telemetry interfaces. Tactile control returns via physical switches mounted on the flat-bottomed AMG Performance steering wheel, complete with dynamic drive-unit dials. Standard seat shakers work alongside the synthetic AMGFORCE S+ engine sounds to create an engaging driving feel. High-grade material options include Nappa leather and Microcut microfibre paired with carbon-fibre trim inserts.
Performance & Powertrains
Underneath lies a groundbreaking tri-motor setup utilizing axial-flux technology. One axial-flux motor powers the front axle, while two independent axial-flux motors drive the rear wheels, yielding a combined output of 680 hp and 1,759 Nm of torque. Power distribution is continuously managed by the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ AWD system. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph takes 2.7 seconds. The 94kWh battery pack provides up to 398 miles of range. Operating on an 800V electrical architecture, maximum DC rapid charging reaches up to 330 kW, replenishing 10 to 80% in 22 minutes or adding 167 miles of range in 10 minutes. Suspension duties are handled by standard AMG Ride Control adaptive damping.
Practicality
The Shooting Brake body style ensures that high performance does not compromise utility. Boot capacity stands at 450 litres with the rear seats in place, expanding significantly via the 40:20:40 split-folding rear bench. Underneath the bonnet, a covered front luggage compartment provides dedicated space to store charging cables. Rear passenger headroom is improved over previous combustion iterations due to optimized packaging of the MMA floor. Practical cabin storage includes deep door bins, an open central storage tunnel, and integrated cup holders.
Buying
The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4MATIC+ Shooting Brake Electric carries a starting price of £67,750 for the standard Touring Edition, rising toward £79,300 for heavily optioned Premium Plus models. Key standard equipment includes 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, adaptive suspension, sports seats, and the multi-source heat pump. Available trim packs upgrade the exterior with 20-inch forged wheels, the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package with Race mode and Drift mode, Burmester 3D Surround Sound, and the full MBUX Superscreen. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the Touring Edition, providing track telemetry, dynamic engine mounts, and maximum performance without the full cost of higher packages.