CLA The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA: gorgeous, effortless, intuitive, and flexible


The Mercedes-Benz CLA is a series of luxury subcompact executive cars manufactured by Mercedes-Benz since 2013. The first generation was a four-door sedan based on the platform of the W176 A-Class and W246 B-Class compact cars, marketed as a four-door coupé. In 2015, Mercedes-Benz expanded the CLA family to include a station wagon configuration which it markets as a Shooting Brake. As the V177 A-Class sedan took its place as the budget-conscious sedan, the second generation got longer and wider than the W205 C-Class.
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#mercedesbenz #cla #newcla #newmercedes #mercedescla #mercedesbenzcla #allnewcla

The new CLA offers more to customers in every dimension: more space, more refinement, more comfort, more intelligence, and more efficiency compared to its predecessor. It is the cleverest car Mercedes Benz ever made – and the first model in a completely new family of vehicles. Each new model will be available with both electric and high-tech hybrid drives. The debut is made by the all-electric CLA.

The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA: the highlights

Intuitive: The most intelligent Mercedes-Benz ever thanks to the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS)

Up-to-date for years and always ready for new features: regular over-the-air updates

The new CLA is the first vehicle to fully operate on the in-house developed Mercedes‑Benz Operating System (MB.OS), making it the most intelligent Mercedes-Benz ever. The new AI-enhanced system makes it possible to equip every vehicle with a supercomputer connected to the Mercedes‑Benz Intelligent Cloud. This enables regular over-the-air updates[1] for the most important vehicle functions, including driving assistance systems for the first time. This keeps the CLA up-to-date and attractive for years to come.

On the way to a hyper-personalised digital experience: the fourth MBUX generation
MB.OS marks the start of the fourth MBUX generation. It opens up a new world of personalised experiences and intuitive interaction between human and vehicle, setting new standards in the automotive industry. The new MBUX generation is the first in-car infotainment system to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) from both Microsoft and Google. This combines multiple AI agents in one system for the first time. MB.OS offers maximum flexibility to seamlessly integrate content from third-party providers. The typical Mercedes interface remains, delivering the familiar customer experience.

Exceptionally intuitive and individual: the new MBUX UI/UX concept
The MBUX Superscreen is powered by state-of-the-art high-performance chips and real-time graphics from the Unity Game Engine. The new control and display concept is tailored to individual customer preferences. The further developed MBUX Zero Layer on the central display shows the most important information, suggestions and, for the first time, the most recently used apps1. In the app view, apps can now be moved and grouped into individually named folders, similar to how it works on a smartphone. When an app is open, a simple swipe to the left returns to the app view. Another swipe takes the user back to the Zero Layer. Alternatively, they can still go directly to the Zero Layer at any time via the home button.

Intelligent, easy to talk to and empathetic like a friend: the new MBUX Virtual Assistant
With generative AI, the new MBUX Virtual Assistant revolutionises the relationship between vehicle and driver. It enables the kinds of complex, multi-turn dialogues one might have with a friend and has short-term memory. Based on ChatGPT4o and searches with Microsoft Bing, it unites the collective knowledge of the internet. Thanks to Google Gemini, the virtual assistant is also well-versed in navigation-related questions. It can access information from the Google Maps platform to provide users with detailed and personalised answers to questions about navigation, points of interest and much more. The MBUX Virtual Assistant is always present on the Zero Layer as a “living” avatar in the form of the Mercedes‑Benz star. During an active dialogue, it recognises emotions and can respond accordingly.
Intelligent navigation you can trust: bespoke Google Maps solution

In the new CLA, the navigation experience is based on Google Maps[2]. The navigation solution developed as part of the partnership between Google and Mercedes-Benz is one of the first integrations of Google Cloud’s new Automotive AI Agent for in-vehicle conversation services with Google Maps. Mercedes‑Benz Navigation with Electric Intelligence plans the fastest and most convenient route, including charging stops, based on numerous factors. Integrated visual communication also reaches a new dimension with MBUX Surround Navigation. It seamlessly integrates the driver-assistance view with a 3D representation of the surroundings and route guidance in real-time on the driver display. Drivers benefit from improved situational awareness, seeing what the CLA sees and how the assistance systems support them.

MB.DRIVE sets a new standard with state-of-the-art driving assistance and parking systems
The new CLA models in Europe come as standard with extensive safety features and the DISTRONIC Distance Assist. Additional comfort assistance systems are bundled by Mercedes-Benz under the name MB.DRIVE². MB.DRIVE ASSIST will be optionally available in Europe from market launch. It complements Distance Assist DISTRONIC with Steering Assist, making it a state-of-the-art SAE Level 2 driving assistance system. New in the CLA is Lane Change Assist, which facilitates lane changes with a simple click of the indicator lever. The safety assistance systems can prevent a multitude of accidents.
Effortless on the road: The CLA with EQ technology is the “one-litre car” for the electric age
Remarkably low consumption and high range

The carbon footprint of the new all-electric CLA is reduced by 40 per cent over the entire value chain compared to its non-electrified predecessor. With remarkably low consumption and an impressive range in this segment, the CLA is taking electric mobility in everyday life to a new level. The first models to come to markets are the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology (energy consumption combined: 14.1-12.2 kWh/100 km | CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km | CO₂ class: A)[3] and the CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology (energy consumption combined: 14.7-12.5 kWh/100 km | CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km | CO₂ class: A)3. With a range of up to 792 kilometres according to the WLTP³, the 200 kW CLA 250+ with EQ Technology offers a large radius in its class. The CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology with 260 kW is positioned as the performance version at the top end of the model range.
The 800-volt electric architecture makes charging almost as fast as refuelling
The 800-volt system can significantly reduce charging time in conjunction with the new battery generation. The CLA 250+ with EQ Technology can be recharged to a range of up to 325 kilometres[4] within ten minutes. Fast DC charging with up to 320 kW is possible for the CLA 250+ and CLA 350 4MATIC.
New battery generation with high energy density and a smaller carbon footprint
The new all-electric models CLA 250+ and CLA 350 4MATIC feature the top variant of lithium-ion batteries with a usable energy content of 85 kWh. The cells have anodes that mix silicon oxide with graphite. Compared to the previous battery with conventional graphite anodes, the gravimetric energy density has been increased by up to 20 per cent. The volumetric energy density of the cell chemistry is 680 Wh/l. The cobalt content has been further reduced. The new battery generation reduces the carbon footprint by about 30 per cent per cell compared to its predecessor. This is thanks to carbon reduction measures, net carbon neutral[5] cell production and the use of electricity from renewable energy sources in anode, cathode and cell housing production.

Sprinter and marathon runner in one: the new two-speed transmission
The two-speed gearbox on the main drive at the rear axle combines dynamism with high efficiency in all situations. The first gear enables excellent acceleration right from the start and a high towing capacity. It also offers great efficiency in urban traffic. The second gear is designed for power delivery at high speeds and high efficiency on the motorway. It ensures outstanding range and long-distance comfort. The top speed is also achieved in the second gear.

“Free” heat for efficient pre-conditioning: multi-source heat pump as standard
The electric CLA is the first Mercedes-Benz vehicle to feature an air-to-air heat pump. It no longer takes the detour through a water circuit and, as a so-called multi-source model, can use three energy sources in parallel: the waste heat from the electric drivetrain, the battery, as well as the ambient air. By using this “free” heat, the air-to-air heat pump contributes to the high efficiency of the CLA. It requires only about one-third of the electrical energy that a comparable auxiliary heater would need for the same output.

Flexible for individual needs: all-electric or with high-tech 48-volt hybrid drivetrain

A modern hybrid with three power levels will follow towards the end of the year

All-electric models play a key role in implementing Mercedes‑Benz’s sustainable business strategy. However, the wishes and mobility needs of customers in different regions of the world determine the pace of this transformation. Towards the end of the year, the new CLA will also be available as a hybrid with 48-volt technology and an electric motor integrated into the transmission. The modular architecture of the CLA model family allows Mercedes‑Benz maximum flexibility in the drive concept and production. The state-of-the-art combustion engine of the CLA hybrid will initially be available in three power levels. Customers will have the choice between front-wheel drive and 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

CLA hybrid models can drive all-electrically and recuperate
The electric motor, inverter and transmission form a highly integrated unit. The electric motor provides intelligent support across the entire speed range. At urban speeds and when less than 20 kW is needed, the hybrid models can drive on electric power alone. So-called electric cruising is possible at speeds of up to around 100 km/h. A special feature of the combustion engine is its ability to recuperate in all eight gears, recovering up to 25 kW of energy.

Gorgeous: emotional expression of athletic power

A desirable statement: athletic proportions and striking character lines

The CLA with EQ Technology captivates with an exciting interplay of intelligence and emotion, redefining desire. The long wheelbase, short overhangs and a powerful GT rear are an emotional expression of athletic power. The car’s sporty proportions are enhanced by a low greenhouse, long bonnet with power domes and large wheels. The car’s muscular and athletic shoulders start at the front wheel arches and extend to the sculptural rear. The clear design language emphasises the sculpted surfaces with reduced lines and precise joints. The striking character lines on the flank create an interesting interplay of light and shade when viewed side-on.

Radiant “face”: panel with illuminated Mercedes-Benz pattern
The iconic and sporty A-shape grille has been reinterpreted for the electric age. The innovative seamless star panel is fully illuminated for the first time on a Mercedes‑Benz production vehicle. A total of 142 individually animated LED chrome-effect stars create a distinctive brand signature. One of the few visual differences distinguishing the CLA hybrid is its classic radiator grille. It features a Mercedes-Benz pattern in chrome, framed by an LED lightguide as standard.

Brightens the day and night: star-shaped headlights and taillights
With the optional MULTIBEAM LED headlights, the daytime running lights take the form of a Mercedes‑Benz star. Connecting the headlights is a band of light. The taillights are also star-shaped and connected by an illuminated design element. This combination gives the CLA a strong and unique visual presence. In conjunction with the optional MULTIBEAM LED headlights, it forms the new Mercedes‑Benz signature. It makes a Mercedes instantly recognisable at all times of the day or night – an unmistakable statement of iconic luxury. The standard-fit LED High Performance headlights have a chrome-plated design element in the shape of a star.

Light-flooded ambiance: panoramic roof fitted as standard for a generous interior feel
All CLA models come as standard with an expansive panoramic roof. This one-piece fixed glass roof has no central brace and extends seamlessly from the windscreen frame to the rear. It provides a new interior experience with an almost unobstructed view upwards. At the same time, the panoramic roof contributes to more generous headroom compared to its predecessor. Heat-insulating laminated safety glass, infrared film and low-emissivity (LowE) coating protect against sunlight and heat.

New spatial experience: minimalist interior design focusing on three iconic high-tech elements
The interior of the CLA offers a new luxury experience in this vehicle class. The design follows the principle of reduction to the essentials. It de-emphasises the underlying structure and focuses on a few iconic high-tech elements. The highlight is the optional, floating MBUX Superscreen, which extends across the entire width of the interior. Behind a large glass surface are the 26-centimetre (10.25-inch) driver display and the 35.6-centimetre (14-inch) centre display. After market launch of the CLA, the MBUX Superscreen will be available as an optional extra with an additional 35.6-centimetre (14-inch display) for the front passenger. Another eye-catcher is the centre console. Appearing to float in mid-air, its high position enhances the sporty feel. As in higher vehicle classes, it is split into two levels. The upper section offers an expansive, three-dimensional trim surface – with an integrated double cup holder and optional wireless smartphone charging cradle. The third high-tech element is the large leather-clad door centre panels, which likewise seem to float. They wrap three-dimensionally over the profile of the pull handle, which is designed in a classic tubular form.

Best-in-class equipment: a reinterpretation of modern luxury at Mercedes-Benz
An attractive and versatile range of colours and materials underscores Mercedes‑Benz’s commitment to exceptional design and distinctive features. Options include the new paint colours aqua mint and clear blue metallic as well as newly developed seat upholstery with a technical-looking pearl effect in black/clean white pearl. Also available are trim elements made of open-pore wood, brushed aluminium, a coating with an anodised look and a decorative paper surface that is new in the automotive industry.

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[1] A personal Mercedes me ID and agreement to the Terms of Use for the Mercedes-Benz Digital Extras are required to use the services. In addition, the vehicle must be paired with the corresponding user account. Upon expiry of the initial term, the services can be renewed for a fee, provided they are at that point still offered for the corresponding vehicle.
[2] A personal Mercedes me ID and agreement to the Terms of Use for the Mercedes-Benz Digital Extras are required to use the services. In addition, the vehicle must be paired with the corresponding user account. Upon expiry of the initial term, the services can be renewed for a fee, provided they are at that point still offered for the corresponding vehicle.
[3] The specified values were determined in accordance with the prescribed WLTP (Worldwide harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure) measurement method. The ranges given refer to the European market. The energy consumption and CO₂ emissions of a car depend not only on the efficient utilisation of the fuel or energy source by the car, but also on the driving style and other non-technical factors.
[4] At DC fast-charging stations with 500 amps based on the WLTP range.
[5] Net carbon-neutral means that carbon emissions that are not avoided or reduced at Mercedes-Benz are compensated for by certified compensation offsetting projects.
 

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I'm prepared to let a good bit slide with regard to the exterior design of M-B brand entry level cars. Quite different to what I perceive regarding more elevated M-B model lines. As previously stated, it is the upcoming MB.EA and AMG.EA vehicles that are genuinely piquing my interest. Looking back throughout M-B history, entry level M-B cars were often far from being exterior design Adonis', but their other attributes were more than redeeming. The W110 190 gaze worthy ? Hardly. The W114 200 ? Nope. The same arguably applies to the W123. However, these were all very competent automobiles. Other manufacturers offered a number of "prettier" competitiors though.
 
The body's not bad for its class. I just can't get used to that front-end styling, but I reckon the novelty of the light bar will appeal to many buyers in the targeted demographic. Jury's still out on that interior, which hasn't grown on me.
 
I wonder why people don't understand why the Chinese automakers are having a field party. Because, if MB find this interior acceptable, then people with common sense will buy something different.

I'm fine with the exterior design actually. It's nice enough. Everything else, though...
 
The body's not bad for its class. I just can't get used to that front-end styling, but I reckon the novelty of the light bar will appeal to many buyers in the targeted demographic. Jury's still out on that interior, which hasn't grown on me.
I’m sorry but I do not agree. Nowadays cheap carmakers are making stunning looking cars including some Chinese newcomers.

To defend that’s an entry Benz makes not much sense in 2025.

There is no excuse for things like this, just lazyness and ignorance which is bringing German carmakers in serious troubles.
Especially messing up in bringing new EV’s like this is a suicide.

A classic Golf or even a Skoda Octavia look more refined and classy than this.

Yet in general the low segment of Merc and BMW are such a mess that I would prefer a Golf, Tiguan instead of the ugly crap they offer.

I’m not a snob, but I would be ashamed to drive this.
 
Not wanting to be too hasty with judgement...

My recent "A6 etron in the metal" experience now has me perceiving its exterior design in a far more favourable light than when photo/video images were the only available source permitting the scrutinizing the car. I suspect that this may apply to the new CLA as well. If I understand correctly, the CLA will be presented in local M-B showrooms in some 6-7 weeks time. I'm looking forward to checking it out.
 
After seeing alot more pictures and videos of this car, I have come to realize that Mercedes didn't design this car to appeal to the traditional older Mercedes buyer like me, but it is intended more to the younger gen who like high tech infotainment systems and unusual and maybe controversial styling elements. Most likely the young Chinese gen.

This car will most likely grow on me, I need to see it in real life to determine whether that front design with the weird connected DRL is appealing or not. Its not elegant but does stand out.

Surprisingly, I like the profile. It seems to have the typical Mercedes short overhangs, and the design looks good.

I actually do like the graphics in the tail lights very much. They look a whole lot better than the EQ models. I like both grill designs for the EV and ICE versions.

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The interior looks bad with the gold coloured trim and brown seats but looks fantastic with the white colour standard seats with white steering wheel and wood trim. I am so happy that the door panels have high grade MB Tex all over the door and they used wood, aluminium trim for that panel surrounding the door handle. It looks great and better than even the S-class which I guess will get this upgrade in the FL. Also great is the return to the movable electric seat switch.

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The metallic machined Burmeister speaker covers look brilliantly classy and must be nice to touch.

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Love it that Mercedes has ZERO shiny black trim panels.

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This blue car looks the best in my opinion and I am massively surprised about the huge 100 liter frunk.

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I also like the standard bumper vents, in some ways I prefer them to the AMG intakes. It looks good in white.

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After the shock about that ugly wall some details are growing on me.
Yes, the absence of shiny black plastic is great.
Yes, all bumpers are sovereign, total in contrary to those dozens fugly bmw versions.
Yes, the frunk is amazing. Necessary, when the trunk is sized as the good old 190.
BUT, the steering wheel is a no-go; obviously they dumped several designs for the instrument cluster as well?
I feel too many steps backwards from the actual really good EQA/EQB-era.

No nice temp/fan wheels, no nice volume wheel, and a hidden hazard warning lights knob, whats going on there ?
 
Love it that Mercedes has ZERO shiny black trim panels.
without even seeing in person..the whole hazzard panel is black shiny panel, also the driver windows is black panel, steering wheel both right and left panels buttons are shiny black ..and thats just from some pictures from probably the top trim version . now lets wait for the more basic trim, probably there will be even more...but clearly absolutely not ZERO, eye for details
 
This car is obviously designed to appeal to a younger more entry-level clientele, not your older traditional Mercedes E-Class and S-Class buyers. Most here are judging it with the "Traditional Mercedes" visual filters on which is a total misunderstanding if its mission.
I had to take a minute to digest what is going on here. After viewing it on my larger TV set, I think Mercedes has done a good job. The body design is a bit more upscale compared to the previous version. It reminds me of the VW CC. I take my comment back on the rental car approach earlier. Sorry about that Mercedes.
The interior is a major improvement compared to the previous version IMO. Mercedes is on a mission with improved materials and finish quality.
This is a definite step ahead. If you have some real life experience with the newer Benzes you can see the improvements in materials in the main areas. This is the entry-level model. The shiny black plastic in the center console and seat control area seen in the current S-Class have successfully been removed in the new CLA. These improvements should be seen on the face-lift S-Class. Haptic feedback has also made a comeback, thankfully.
My only gripe is the screen. It could have been made a little more streamlined. Overall I am not disappointed.

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The shiny black plastic in the center console and seat control area seen in the current S-Class have successfully been removed
If you know the newer benz...having the S...Are you sure its not like in the E/S class where the base trim is shiny black but you can spend some hounders to make an different or matt surface? I bet the base model starts with black shiny..So nothing new here...probably. They always present the best spec ...so better than this you will not see. From the moment that touch and digital panels appear on the market was clear was towards moving forward , old people die, young people come from behind that are born with touch in hands. Even my S has 2 digital panels one of it its touch focus, this is the trend no matter if its an S class or CLA...we are talking about design language here, how you place everything, how good screw everything together is and so on...If this one screams like the first Cla from everything you touch...then, sorry doesnt make the price worth it. Mercedes has become from the assembly stand point 3d, after Bmw and Audi but with similar or higher price than those two
 
Nice video showing the car on the move and the new Virtual Assistant in action. The car in blue looks a whole lot better than the other colours.

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Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz Group AG is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. Established in 1926, Mercedes-Benz Group produces consumer luxury vehicles and light commercial vehicles badged as Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG, and Mercedes-Maybach. Its origin lies in Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft's 1901 Mercedes and Carl Benz's 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen, which is widely regarded as the first internal combustion engine in a self-propelled automobile. The slogan for the brand is "the best or nothing".
Official website: Mercedes-Benz (Global), Mercedes-Benz (USA)

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