Battery-electric CLA 250+ and CLA 350 Set to Debut
Mercedes-Benz is gearing as much as launch a brand new lineup of compact autos, with all new fashions within the U.S. that includes some type of electrification. The preliminary choices might be battery-electric variations of the CLA, anticipated to hit the market in late 2025, adopted by a non-plug-in hybrid variant roughly one 12 months later. Updates to the GLA-Class hatchback and GLB-Class fashions are nonetheless within the pipeline.
Curiously, plug-in hybrids is not going to be included on this plan. As a substitute, Mercedes has adopted a BEV-first strategy with its new MMA platform, as clarified by Christoph Starzynski, Vice President of Product Technique and Product Steering at Mercedes-Benz Automobiles. This system was designed with a mix of electrical and inside combustion engine (ICE) fashions in thoughts.
CLA EV Options and Efficiency
Because the CLA-Class evolves, it should stand out within the aggressive panorama, significantly in opposition to in style fashions just like the Toyota Prius and Hyundai Ioniq 6. The 2026 CLA will function an environment friendly battery as a central part of its design, backed by developments in EV expertise based mostly on earlier ideas.
The CLA lineup will embody each single-motor and dual-motor choices. The rear-wheel-drive CLA 250+ will make the most of an 85.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, producing 268 hp, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of roughly 6.6 seconds. In distinction, the all-wheel-drive CLA 350 4Matic will add a second motor producing 107 hp, providing faster acceleration in 4.8 seconds. This mannequin will function improved effectivity via mechanisms like a decoupled entrance motor and a low coefficient of drag.
With its modern 800-volt structure, the CLA can obtain speedy charging speeds of as much as 320 kW, permitting for about 186 miles of vary in simply 10 minutes at a DC quick charger. Though house charging estimates should not but obtainable, the CLA 250+ is predicted to boast an EPA-rated vary exceeding 300 miles.
The CLA may even incorporate an enhanced regenerative braking system, enhancing on earlier fashions by successfully mixing regenerative and friction braking. The electrical car will supply completely different regenerative driving modes, together with a one-pedal drive function, which, whereas not universally favored, has been requested by prospects.
Regardless of the 800-volt system, compatibility with the extra generally discovered 400-volt charging infrastructure within the U.S. stays unsure. Starzynski advised that Mercedes would discover choices if market demand arises.
Hybrid Providing With out a Plug
Following the arrival of the battery-electric CLA, a gas-electric hybrid model might be launched, using a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 1.3 kWh battery and a 27-hp entrance motor. Though particular efficiency metrics and gas effectivity figures have but to be launched, the hybrid is designed to allow electric-only driving at speeds of as much as 60 mph.
Starzynski emphasised that the BEV-first design philosophy has resulted in a extra refined hybrid car in comparison with what may need been developed in any other case. Whereas there aren’t any present plans for a plug-in hybrid model, Mercedes has opted to not pursue this feature for the CLA, positioning plug-ins as extra viable for bigger autos requiring extra strong drivetrains.
Design, Expertise, and Options
The outside design of the 2026 CLA displays a extra pronounced and trendy aesthetic, incorporating quite a few visually putting options corresponding to illuminated icons. Inside, the car boasts a sophisticated "Superscreen" show that merges a number of digital screens beneath a single glass pane, offering an interactive and fascinating person expertise via the brand new MB.OS interface.
This method seamlessly integrates options like Google Maps whereas adjusting car lighting based mostly on voice instructions—creating an immersive surroundings for drivers. All CLA fashions may even embody a set of superior security options, together with adaptive cruise management and elective Stage 2 driver help expertise, supported by a community of cameras and sensors supplemented by over-the-air updates.
Pricing particulars are anticipated to be revealed because the launch date approaches later this 12 months. The present CLA 250 begins at $45,550, and whereas a rise in worth is anticipated, the precise figures might be confirmed quickly.
Mercedes-Benz facilitated this primary have a look at the upcoming 2026 CLA-Class.
