All-New Mercedes-Benz CLA Makes Global Debut as Electric Car
March 14 2025,
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the next generation CLA in Europe, marking a pivotal shift as this popular model transforms from its combustion engine origins into a fully electric vehicle. The debut signals a new chapter for the CLA lineup, which will now offer both electric and hybrid powertrain options. While North American specifications remain unannounced, the European introduction provides our first look at this reimagined vehicle.
The new CLA emerges as part of a fresh vehicle family, with the all-electric version leading the introduction. This transformation delivers improvements in multiple areas including space, refinement, comfort, and efficiency compared to its predecessor.
Electric-First Design
The transition to electric power has allowed Mercedes-Benz to reimagine the CLA's proportions and styling. The vehicle features a long wheelbase with short overhangs, creating more interior space while maintaining the model's characteristic sporty profile. A GT-inspired rear and muscular shoulders enhance the athletic stance, while the low greenhouse and long hood with power domes preserve the CLA's distinctive silhouette.
Most notably, the front fascia adopts an electric-specific design with an innovative seamless star panel. This panel features 142 individually animated LED stars for the first time on a Mercedes-Benz production vehicle, creating an unmistakable light signature. The star-shaped headlights connect with a continuous light band, establishing a strong visual presence unique to this new generation.
A standard panoramic glass roof extends seamlessly from the windscreen to the rear, providing an almost unobstructed upward view and contributing to increased headroom compared to the previous model.
Mercedes-Benz Operating System
This global debut marks another significant milestone: the CLA is the first vehicle to fully operate on the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS). Developed in-house, this system transforms the CLA into what Mercedes-Benz describes as their most intelligent vehicle yet.
The MB.OS platform enables regular over-the-air updates for all major vehicle functions, including driving assistance systems. This capability helps maintain the vehicle's technological relevance throughout ownership.
The fourth generation MBUX interface introduces a more intuitive interaction between driver and vehicle. The system integrates artificial intelligence from both Microsoft and Google, combining multiple AI agents in one system. A new MBUX Virtual Assistant uses generative AI to enable complex, multi-turn conversations with short-term memory, resembling natural dialogue.
Electric Powertrain Options
The European debut introduced two electric variants: the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology and the CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology.
The CLA 250+ delivers 200 kW of power (approximately 268 hp) and achieves up to 792 kilometres of range on the WLTP testing cycle. Adjusting for the typical 15% difference between WLTP and NRCan/EPA figures, North American drivers might expect around 670+ kilometres of real-world range, though official specifications for our market have not been confirmed.
The more powerful CLA 350 4MATIC produces 260 kW (approximately 349 hp) and includes all-wheel drive capability, positioning it as the performance version in the lineup.
Both models utilize a new generation of lithium-ion batteries with 85 kWh of usable energy. The battery cells feature anodes that mix silicon oxide with graphite, increasing energy density by up to 20% compared to conventional designs. The reduced cobalt content and carbon-conscious manufacturing process results in approximately 30% lower carbon footprint per cell.
Practical Charging Solutions
The CLA's 800-volt electrical architecture supports fast charging capabilities that reduce waiting times considerably. According to European specifications, the CLA 250+ can add up to 325 kilometres of range in approximately 10 minutes when connected to a suitable DC fast charger.
Both electric variants support DC fast charging at up to 320 kW, making longer journeys more practical with shorter charging stops.
The vehicle also includes an innovative multi-source heat pump as standard equipment. This air-to-air heat pump system uses waste heat from the electric drivetrain, the battery, and ambient air simultaneously, requiring only about one-third of the electrical energy that a conventional auxiliary heater would need.
Hybrid Options Coming Later
While the all-electric models lead the introduction, Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that hybrid versions with 48-volt technology will follow later in 2025 for the European market. These hybrids will feature an electric motor integrated into the transmission and a modern combustion engine available in three power levels.
The hybrid variants will offer electric-only driving at urban speeds when power demand remains below 20 kW, with electric cruising possible at speeds up to approximately 100 km/h.
North American Arrival
Mercedes-Benz has not yet announced specific timing or configuration details for the North American market. As the first model in a new vehicle family, the CLA establishes a pattern that future Mercedes-Benz vehicles will follow, offering both electric and hybrid options to suit different driving needs.
Visit Mercedes-Benz Ottawa Downtown to discover our current electric lineup. Our team will guide you through the benefits of electric driving and help you assess whether an EV suits your daily transportation needs and driving preferences.
