Mercedes-Benz CLA EQ: Europe back at the forefront?
from Dominic Lux 
on March 13, 2025, 21:09 | Write a comment
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the new CLA with EQ technology, a fully electric sedan designed to set standards in efficiency and technology. The vehicle is based on the new Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) and combines an aerodynamic silhouette with state-of-the-art electric drive technology. For the first time, the company's proprietary MB.OS is being used, forming the digital interface between the vehicle and the new platform. With a range of up to 792 kilometers according to the WLTP and remarkably low energy consumption of 14,0-12,2 kWh per 100 kilometers, Mercedes aims to demonstrate that innovation continues to be at home in Europe, and especially in Germany.
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MB.OS – The new operating system for the CLA EQ
With the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System, MB.OS, the CLA takes the next major step in vehicle digitalization. Thanks to its new chip-to-cloud architecture, the system connects the powertrain, infotainment, and various other vehicle areas and remains constantly up-to-date via over-the-air updates. MB.OS also enables on-demand booking of entertainment or driver assistance functions and offers a wide range of voice commands via the new MBUX Virtual Assistant. Powered by artificial intelligence, this not only responds sensitively to voice commands but also enables more intuitive interaction than ever before in a Mercedes-Benz.
Up to 792 kilometers range
A highlight of the CLA EQ is its impressive range. Thanks to a new battery generation and efficient drive technology, the sedan is expected to travel up to 792 kilometers on a single charge according to the WLTP test. Mercedes also relies on 800-volt technology, which allows the vehicle to be charged particularly quickly at rapid charging stations with up to 320 kW. This should allow several hundred kilometers of range to be added within 15 minutes. In addition, MB.CHARGE Public supports the search for suitable charging stations and enables convenient payment for approximately 2 million charging points worldwide.
Image: Mercedes-Benz
Technical data and versions
The new CLA EQ will be offered in several variants. Among the planned models is the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ with EQ technology, which has a combined energy consumption of 14,0-12,2 kWh/100 km. This model features an innovative two-speed transmission for optimal efficiency. The maximum DC charging power is up to 300 kW, and the vehicle can be charged particularly quickly at high-performance charging stations with more than 320 kW.
There will also be an AMG version with up to 544 hp and 4Matic all-wheel drive. However, this isn't expected to be unveiled until 2026. Thanks to its hybrid platform, the new CLA will also be available as a combustion engine and hybrid. Nevertheless, all versions of the all-electric CLA offer a frunk (front trunk) with over 100 liters of storage space.
Because equipment plays a major role at Mercedes, they want to simplify things a bit with various "lines." There will be a Progressive Line, an AMG Line, and an AMG Plus Line. In addition, a host of special options can be expected. When the order books open in May 2025.
New infotainment and state-of-the-art assistance systems
In the interior, Mercedes relies on the aforementioned MB.OS, featuring artificial intelligence and customizable functions. The new system is designed to enable even more intuitive operation and adapt more closely to the driver's needs. This is complemented by high-resolution displays and an augmented reality head-up display.
Mercedes also aims to set new standards in safety with the CLA EQ. The model features the latest driver assistance systems, including an improved Autopilot for semi-autonomous driving and more precise environmental monitoring through numerous sensors and cameras.
Image: Mercedes-Benz
Focus on sustainability
In addition to performance and technology, Mercedes also places great emphasis on sustainability. The CLA EQ is built with recycled materials, and the battery is designed to be efficiently recycled at the end of its life cycle. Furthermore, production is CO₂-neutral.
Market launch and price
Mercedes plans to launch the CLA EQ at the end of 2025. Pricing hasn't been officially announced yet, but we expect the larger battery-powered version to cost around €60.000 (including 19 percent VAT). It will be positioned as a direct competitor to vehicles like the BMW i4 and the Tesla Model 3. Later, in addition to the aforementioned AMG version, an entry-level version with a 58 kWh LFP battery will follow. This should ensure a significantly lower starting price.
What do you think of the new CLA EQ? Share your thoughts in the comments!