This Mercedes-Benz CLA is designed throughout for the electric and digital age

As the first model of an entirely new vehicle family, it embodies the next evolutionary step in the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy of Sensual Purity. The last CLA model in Malaysia, the CLA 45 AMG S 4MATIC was a very desirable sports sedan and priced at RM527,888.

The Concept CLA Class already previewed this dynamic appearance combined with extraordinary design elements: The production model is equally striking with an exciting interplay of intelligence and emotion, redefining desire.

With its fastback silhouette, the CLA stands for outstanding aerodynamics and efficiency. The long wheelbase (2,790 millimetres), short overhangs and a distinctive GT rear are an emotional expression of athletic power. The car’s sporty proportions are enhanced thanks to a low greenhouse, long bonnet with power domes and large wheels up to 19 inches. The car’s muscular and athletic shoulders start at the front wheel arches and extend to the sculptural rear. The flared wheel arches and wide track (front/rear: 1,605/1,574 millimetres) reinforce the dynamic impression.

The clear design language emphasises the sculpted surfaces with reduced lines and precise joints. The striking character lines on the flank create an interesting interplay of light and shade when viewed side-on. The powerful design conveys sporty confidence and modernity, giving the CLA a visual lightness. The meticulous attention to detail underscores the high quality and exclusivity of the new model.

At 4,723 millimetres, the new CLA is about four centimetres longer than its predecessor. The wheelbase has increased by over six centimetres to 2,790 millimetres. The driver and front passenger have slightly more legroom (plus 11 millimetres).

Passengers in both seat rows also have more headroom: an increase of 16 and 28 millimetres (front/rear). This is due to the higher roofline and the standard-fit panoramic roof, which lets in plenty of light and creates a sense of freedom.

The CLA with EQ Technology is the first modern Mercedes-Benz with a frunk (front trunk). It offers 101 litres of additional load space – ideal for a luggage trolley, a crate of 0.33-litre bottles or the charging cable.

This makes it bigger and more useful than in the Mercedes-Benz 130 (W 23) from the 1930s, which was the brand’s first vehicle with a frunk. At the rear, the new electric CLA offers a luggage compartment with a volume of 405 litres.

The all-new CLA with EQ Technology is the “one-litre car” for the electric age. With remarkably low consumption and impressive range in this segment, it elevates the real-life practicality of electric mobility to a new level. Initially, the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology and the CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology will be launched. By the end of the year, the model range will be expanded to include additional battery-electric variants and the CLA with a high-tech hybrid engine (see separate chapter).

With a range of up to 792 kilometres according to WLTP, the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology offers a large radius in its class. This 200 kW model variant can travel from Stuttgart to Kiel or from Bremen to Munich without charging stops.

The 260 kW CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology is positioned as the performance version at the top end of the model range. It combines high efficiency with immense driving pleasure and outstanding performance, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. Both power levels reach speeds of up to 210 km/h.

Highlights of the all-electric CLA include the 800-volt electrical architecture and advanced drive units with a two-speed transmission on the main drive at the rear axle. The CLA with EQ Technology can recharge with up to 325 kilometres of range in just ten minutes. Fast DC charging is possible with up to 320 kW for both the CLA 250+ and CLA 350 4MATIC.

With the main drive on the rear axle for optimal traction and driving characteristics, Mercedes-Benz brings a drive layout known from the mid and upper classes to the entry-level segment. The 200-kW electric drive unit with a permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM) on the rear axle was developed entirely in-house and is directly derived from the VISION EQXX unit. Battery-to-wheel efficiency over long distances is 93 percent.