Overview
The Mercedes-Benz CLA EV marks a transformative era for the brand, serving as a technology showcase, built on the flexible Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture. Positioned as a sleek four-door executive saloon, it directly targets key rivals such as the Tesla Model 3, BMW i3, and Polestar 2. By focusing heavily on extreme battery efficiency and 800V charging technology derived from the Vision EQXX concept, Mercedes has established the electric CLA as a benchmark for long-distance range in the compact executive class.
Design
Embracing a four-door coupe silhouette, the CLA EV prioritises aerodynamic styling to maximise range, achieving a low drag coefficient of 0.21. The front profile features a closed-off grille populated with an illuminated star pattern, creating a distinctive nighttime signature. Clean body lines, flush-fitting door handles, and aerodynamical alloy wheels ranging from 18 to 19 inches smooth the airflow along the side, leading back to a tapered rear with an integrated light bar.
Interior
Inside, the cabin is dominated by the brand's new MB.OS system, which can be configured with a sprawling pillar-to-pillar MBUX Superscreen. The interface integrates generative AI for conversational voice controls and navigation. Standard sports seats are supportive, and ambient lighting trims elevate the digital atmosphere. While the dashboard adopts a clean, tech-focused layout with soft-touch trims and metallic accents, cost-conscious details like combined window switches prevent it from completely matching the ultra-luxurious feel of larger Mercedes models.
Performance & Powertrains
The entry-level CLA 200 pairs a 58kWh battery with a rear-mounted 224 hp motor to deliver a range of 328 miles on a single charge. The CLA 250+ features a rear electric motor delivering 272 hp and 335 Nm of torque, pushing the saloon from 0 to 62 mph in 6.7 seconds before reaching a 130 mph top speed. An 85 kWh battery delivers a range of up to 484 miles, supported by exceptional energy efficiency figures approaching 5.7 miles per kWh. The 300 4MATIC adds AWD for a total output of 354 hp and 335Nm of torque. The 85kWh battery supplies the car with enough energy to travel 462 miles on a single charge. Power is delivered through a two-speed transmission on the rear axle to balance low-speed response with high-speed motorway efficiency. Built on an 800V electrical platform, the CLA supports peak DC rapid charging speeds of up to 320 kW, enabling a 10 to 80 percent top-up in approximately 20 minutes and replenishing up to 200 miles of range in just 10 minutes.
Practicality
The CLA EV offers a usable 405-litre rear boot capacity. This is supplemented by a 101-litre frunk, ideal for charging cables. Legroom across the rear bench is adequate for adults, though the sloping roofline slightly compromises headroom for taller passengers compared to more conventional upright saloons. Practical cabin storage includes a large central floating storage area, twin cup holders, and deep door bins.
Buying
Prices for the electric Mercedes-Benz CLA start at £39,150 for the entry-level CLA 200 Sport. Upping it to the 250+, raises the price to £43,250. Stepping up to the AMG Line Edition raises the purchase price to £49,375, while the range-topping AMG Line Premium Edition begins at £51,770. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the CLA 250+ AMG Line. It strikes the ideal balance by adding AMG body styling, keyless entry, and 19-inch wheels without compromising the core 85 kWh battery setup or its exceptional real-world efficiency.