By Chris Ward, May 12, 2025
We missed this one last week — the new Mercedes CLA. Personally, I’d avoid it. Yes, it has four doors, but rear space is so limited it might as well be called a four-door coupé, with back seats that are better suited for storage than passengers. Still, people want the badge, and the CLA offers a relatively affordable entry point into the brand — albeit in a car that’s significantly compromised.
The biggest compromise is the starting price, £45,000. But hey, don’t just take my word for it. I’m just one opinion among many — a grain of sand in the desert of automotive takes.
That said, here’s what you need to know about the upgraded CLA:
The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA is now available to order in the UK, starting at £45,615 for the CLA 250+ Sport Edition. It’s positioned as the most efficient, intuitive, and built on the new Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA) to support both electric and hybrid drivetrains.
Performance & Efficiency
CLA 250+ EQ Technology (electric-only model at launch). Battery capacity is rated at 85 kWh, power at 200 kW (272 hp) rear-mounted electric motor.
Performance is not too shabby with a 0–62 mph of 6.7 seconds and a rated top speed of 130 mph. Up to 350 miles of estimated real-world range (Sport Edition) is possible. Ultra-fast charging is rated at 200+ miles in 10 minutes at 320 kW.
Hybrid Variant (Coming Soon)
The hybrid CLA will feature a four-cylinder engine with 48V mild hybrid technology and an electric motor integrated into a new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Technology & Infotainment
The latest generation 14” central touchscreen (Gen 4) MB.OS, MBUX system is powered by AI from Google and Microsoft and includes so-called natural voice conversations and short-term memory. Options also include a secondary 14” passenger screen (Superscreen).
Powering the hardware is Unity Game Engine-based graphics and real-time processing.
Design & Features
The signature illuminated star grille features 142 individually animated LEDs, creating a distinctive visual identity. The CLA EV offers practical storage with a 101-litre front trunk (frunk) and a 405-litre rear boot. A standard panoramic roof with infrared and heat-reducing coatings enhances comfort and visibility.
The Sport Edition comes equipped with heated seats, 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlights, and THERMATIC automatic climate control. The AMG Line trim builds on this by adding AMG bodystyling, flush-fitting door handles, ambient lighting, and wireless device charging. Stepping up to the AMG Line Premium adds 19-inch alloy wheels, advanced MULTIBEAM LED headlamps, and the bold styling elements of the Night Package..
Safety & Assistance
Standard safety equipment includes Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping, Brake Assist, Manoeuvring Assist, DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control and MB.DRIVE comfort assistance suite