The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA – the most efficient, intuitive and intelligent Mercedes-Benz ever – is now available to order in the UK. Prices for the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology in Sport Edition specification start from £45,615, with AMG Line Edition and AMG Line Premium Edition specifications available from £49,375 and £51,770 respectively.
The CLA is the first model in a completely new family of vehicles underpinned by the flexible Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA), which has been designed to accommodate both electric and high-tech hybrid drivetrains. Initially the CLA is available as an all-electric model: the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology is equipped with an 85 kWh high-voltage battery and a 200 kW (272 hp) electric drive unit mounted on the rear-axle. The CLA 250+ can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 6.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 130 mph. Additional battery and motor configurations will be available in the future.
The new CLA 250+ with EQ Technology has a range of up to 484 miles in Sport Edition specification and can be recharged at up to 320 kW – meaning over 200 miles of range can be added in just ten minutes.This is made possible by numerous innovations taken directly from the VISION EQXX including the 800-volt electrical architecture and advanced electric drive unit (EDU). Developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-Benz, the EDU features a two-speed transmission that benefits performance and efficiency. The CLA’s low drag coefficient of 0.21, the standard air-to-air heat pump, intelligent recuperation and optimised route guidance with Mercedes-Benz Navigation with Electric Intelligence also have a significant positive impact on driving efficiency.
Later this year the CLA will be offered as a hybrid with a new four-cylinder combustion engine and 48-volt technology, with an electric motor integrated into its new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Every new CLA is equipped with the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) – the fourth Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) generation. The new AI-enhanced system, developed in-house, makes it possible to equip every CLA with a supercomputer connected to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud. This enables regular over-the-air updates for the most important vehicle functions, including driving assistance systems.
MB.OS opens up a new world of personalised experiences and intuitive interaction between human and vehicle. For instance, the latest MBUX generation is the first in-car infotainment system to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) from both Microsoft and Google. With generative AI, the new MBUX Virtual Assistant revolutionises the relationship between vehicle and driver. It enables complex, back and forth conversations and even has short-term memory.
Every CLA is equipped with a 14” centre display with smartphone integration and an integrated video camera, powered by state-of-the-art high-performance chips and real-time graphics from the Unity Game Engine. The MBUX Superscreen, which adds a second 14” display for the front-seat passenger, will be available to order after the initial launch period.
All electric CLAs feature an illuminated front panel. A total of 142 individually animated LED chrome-effect stars create a distinctive brand signature. The illuminated grille greets and bids farewell to the driver with various animations. Under the bonnet is a 101 litre ‘frunk’, adding additional luggage capacity beyond the 405 litre boot.
Additional standard equipment includes a large panoramic glass roof. There is no need for a roller blind:an infrared film 250 nanometres thick protects against glare, while a 200 nanometre Low-Emissivity coating on the inside of the glass protects against excessive heat. From launch Sport Edition models are also equipped with THERMATIC automatic climate control, heated front seats with four-way lumbar support, LED High Performance headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist, 18” alloy wheels, heat-insulating dark-tinted glass and GUARD 360° vehicle protection.
AMG Line Edition specification adds AMG bodystyling, flush-fitting door handles with KEYLESS-GO and Digital Vehicle Key compatibility, a multifunction steering wheel in Nappa leather, Surround Lighting with animated projections of the Mercedes-Benz star pattern, ambient lighting and wireless device charging. The AMG Line Premium Edition introduces equipment such as 19” alloy wheels, MULTIBEAM LED headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus and the Night Package.
The new CLA is equipped with extensive safety features including Blind Spot Assist, Manoeuvring Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Brake Assist. DISTRONIC Distance Assist is also included. Additional comfort assistance systems are bundled under the name MB.DRIVE.
