Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric Expert Review

The new CLA’s design has been shaped by Mercedes’ pursuit of efficiency, and there’s a familiar resemblance to other Merc EVs in its smooth, curvy silhouette. However, it retains some of the original CLA’s appeal, thanks to the coupe-like tapering roofline and frameless doors. Details like flush door handles, a sealed-off grille, aero-optimised 18-inch AMG alloys and a sealed underfloor result in a very aerodynamic shape with a drag coefficient of just 0.21Cd.
Like newer Mercs, the CLA also gets plenty of logos. The three-pointed star appears on the bonnet, grille, headlamps and tail-lamps. There are even 142 illuminated stars in the grille, which may divide opinion but give the CLA a distinctive identity.
The CLA EV is the first model based on the new Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA) platform that will underpin future models. It measures over 4.7m in length with a near 2.8m wheelbase, putting it close in size to the BYD Seal, though the BYD is slightly larger.

Step inside and you’ll appreciate the design, materials and build quality. In India, the CLA 250+ comes only in AMG Line guise, bringing a flat-bottom steering wheel, sporty pedals and AMG upholstery. The dashboard features a dual-screen setup with sharp graphics and an intuitive interface, though the near absence of physical controls means most functions rely on the touchscreen. A third passenger display offered overseas is omitted here.
Practicality is decent, with ample storage spaces and a floating centre console. The front seats are supportive but may feel snug for larger occupants, and the high floor leads to a knees-up seating position. Rear space isn’t much better, with limited under-thigh support and headroom due to the sloping roofline, making it less ideal for chauffeur-driven use. A panoramic glass roof adds to the sense of space, though the lack of a sunshade can make the cabin warm. Boot space stands at 405 litres, complemented by a 101-litre front trunk.

The CLA packs cutting-edge tech powered by four supercomputers. It debuts the new MB.OS infotainment system with fast responses and OTA updates. The MBUX Virtual Assistant uses AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini and Bing to learn driver preferences. A new charging app integrates multiple providers for easier planning. Features include a 14-inch touchscreen, digital cluster, massaging seats, Burmester audio, ambient lighting and ADAS Level 2+ safety tech. It also scored top marks in Euro NCAP crash tests.

We drove the CLA 250+, which uses a rear-mounted motor producing 272hp and 335Nm, achieving 0-100kph in 6.7 seconds. Unlike the aggressive Porsche Taycan, the CLA delivers power smoothly and progressively. A two-speed gearbox helps balance performance and efficiency, contributing to a claimed drivetrain efficiency of 93 percent.

The brake-by-wire system offers consistent and natural feel, while four levels of regenerative braking, including one-pedal mode, work well, though the new control method via the gear stalk isn’t as intuitive as paddles. Refinement is excellent, with minimal noise entering the cabin. A lower CLA 200 variant produces 224hp, while international markets get a dual-motor CLA 350 with 354hp.

The CLA’s claimed range is 792km (WLTP) from its 85kWh battery, with real-world figures expected above 500km. Our drive indicated around 535km, even with spirited driving. Its 800V system supports fast charging up to 240kW, enabling a 400km top-up in 20 minutes, though such infrastructure is limited in India.
Ride comfort and handling - 8
On the road, the rear-wheel-drive setup makes the CLA enjoyable to drive. The steering is precise and well-weighted, and India-specific suspension tweaks ensure good ground clearance without compromising ride or handling. It feels agile around bends and stable at speed, with a firm but comfortable ride.

On the road, the rear-wheel-drive setup makes the CLA enjoyable to drive. The steering is precise and well-weighted, and India-specific suspension tweaks ensure good ground clearance without compromising ride or handling. It feels agile around bends and stable at speed, with a firm but comfortable ride.

Expected to be priced between ₹60-65 lakh, it will sit between the BYD Seal and the Tesla Model Y. While it has drawbacks like cramped rear seating, a high floor and missing features like ventilated seats and sunshades, it excels as a driver-focused luxury EV. With strong range, refined performance and advanced tech, the new CLA is arguably the best EV Mercedes has produced yet.