Mercedes-Benz is at it again. This time, they’ve unveiled the third-generation CLA, a four-door saloon that’s gunning straight for the BMW 2-Series. But this isn’t just a pretty face with a star on the bonnet. Mercedes is calling it “the cleverest car they’ve ever made.” And honestly, they might be onto something.
BEV or MHEV? Your Call.
The new CLA sits on Mercedes’ MMA platform, which accommodates both Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) and Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicles (MHEV). The BEV variants will launch first, with two choices:
- CLA 250+ – A rear-axle-mounted electric motor producing 268 bhp and 400 Nm, good for a 0-100 km/h time of 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 209 km/h.
- CLA 350 4Matic – A more powerful version with 349 bhp and 560 Nm, adding an 80 kW front motor for extra traction. It sprints from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds but maintains the same 209 km/h top speed.
Both models use an 85 kWh battery with a range of 694-791 km (CLA 250+) and 671-771 km (CLA 350 4Matic). Thanks to 320 kW ultra-fast charging, you can add up to 320 km of range in just 10 minutes—just enough time to grab a quick samosa and chai.
A Two-Speed Transmission for Maximum Efficiency
Now, here’s where things get interesting. Mercedes has equipped both BEV variants with a two-speed transmission on the rear axle. First gear has a short ratio of 11:1 for rapid acceleration and city efficiency, while the second gear, with a ratio of 5:1, is designed for high-speed cruising. The shift points are automatically adjusted depending on the driving mode and situation, giving you the best of both worlds.
Mild Hybrid Petrol Versions Coming Soon
If you’re not ready to go fully electric, Mercedes has you covered. By the end of 2025, they’ll introduce MHEV variants of the CLA. These versions will be powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine available in three states of tune:
- 134 bhp and 230 Nm
- 161 bhp and 270 Nm
- 188 bhp and 300 Nm
This engine, codenamed M252, is paired with an eight-speed DCT transmission and integrated with a 48-volt MHEV system that provides up to 20 kW of electric boost for smoother low-speed acceleration and improved efficiency in urban conditions.
Built for Performance and Comfort
Underpinning the CLA is a newly developed three-link front suspension paired with a multi-link rear axle, giving it the right balance between comfort and agility. Mercedes has focused on high camber stiffness for responsive steering and reduced noise, making it perfect for both the chaotic streets of Mumbai and the open highways of the Western Ghats.
Bigger, But Not Roomier
The new CLA is 4723 mm long—40 mm longer than its predecessor. It’s also 25 mm wider and 29 mm taller, with a wheelbase that’s stretched by 60 mm. But oddly enough, this hasn’t translated to more rear-seat space, as rear legroom has actually shrunk by 7 mm. Boot space is down by 55 litres, although the electric versions do offer an additional 101 litres of storage in the frunk.
Stars, Stars Everywhere
You won’t mistake this CLA for anything else on the road. The iconic Mercedes grille has been reimagined with 142 individually animated LED stars that greet and bid farewell to the driver. The illuminated central badge and three-pointed star motifs in the daytime running lights and tail lights ensure that everyone knows you’re driving something special.
Superscreen and Google-Powered Tech Inside
Inside, the new CLA features the optional MBux Superscreen—a massive display that spans the entire width of the dashboard. Other highlights include a fixed panoramic glass roof, Google Maps-powered navigation, and a full suite of driver assistance systems. It’s as high-tech as they come.
Price and Launch Date in India
While official pricing hasn’t been announced yet, expect the CLA to start at around Rs 55 lakh for the MHEV variants and go up to Rs 80 lakh for the fully loaded BEV versions. The CLA will make its way to Indian shores by early 2026, so if you’re looking to upgrade to something smarter, faster, and more efficient, this might be worth the wait.
