Mercedes-Benz announced the fully redesigned compact model “CLA-Class” on March 13, 2025. This new CLA-Class is not just an evolution; it embodies Mercedes-Benz’s vision of the compact car of the future, marking the beginning of a new generation. Every aspect of the car, from the exterior and interior to the powertrain, safety, and connectivity, has been revamped, greatly improving its appeal.
Key features of the new CLA-Class
- Full model change:
- It will be announced on March 13, 2025, and is scheduled for release in late 2025.
- Mercedes-Benz’s new generation compact model.
- Exterior:
- Adopts a new generation design and improves texture.
- Achieves best-in-class aerodynamic performance (Cd value 0.21).
- New grille and headlights with a three-pointed star motif.
- A panoramic sunroof is standard.
- Body size increased (total length 4722mm, total width 1855mm, total height 1468mm, wheelbase 2789mm).
- interior:
- Equipped with “MBUX Super Screen” (10.25-inch digital meter, 14-inch infotainment, optional 14-inch passenger display).
- Equipped with the new generation MBUX, it supports ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing, and Google Gemini.
- 12.2-inch head-up display, 16-speaker Burmester sound system.
- Boot space: 405L in the rear, 70L in the front on EV models.
- Powertrain:
- Internal combustion engine model: 1.5L gasoline turbo + 48V mild hybrid (136ps, 163ps).
- EV model: “CLA250+”: 268ps, range 792km (European values).
- EV model: “CLA350 4Matic”: 349ps, range 771km (European values).
- Adopts a two-speed transmission for electric vehicles.
- Equipped with an 85kwh battery.
- Supports 325kw fast charging (enough charging for 325km in 10 minutes)
- A 58kWh battery will be added at a later date.
- Diesel model discontinued.
- Safety equipment:
- Equipped with the latest safety driving support system.
- Active Lane Changing Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, etc.
- price:
- Prices are expected to start from the 6 million yen range.
The new CLA-Class breaks new ground in compact cars
Mercedes-Benz has revised its compact car lineup to focus on premium models, and the CLA-Class will play an important role as a new generation compact model, replacing the A-Class hatchback and sedan, the A-Class long-wheelbase sedan for the Chinese market, and the B-Class.
The new CLA-Class incorporates Mercedes-Benz’s latest technologies in all areas, including design, aerodynamic performance, powertrain, platform, and digital technology, aiming to overturn the conventional concept of a compact car and provide new value.
Breathtakingly beautiful, cutting-edge exterior design
The exterior of the new CLA-Class is characterized by a sophisticated design that exudes a sense of modernity at first glance. The new grille and headlights, which are based on the Mercedes-Benz identity “three-pointed star,” attract the eye of the viewer.
The car achieves a class-leading drag coefficient (Cd value) of 0.21, achieved through meticulous aerodynamic design and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies such as flush door handles. The panoramic sunroof, fitted as standard, uses heat-insulating laminated glass with an ultra-thin infrared film for enhanced comfort.
The body size has been enlarged from the previous model, with a total length of 4722mm, total width of 1855mm, total height of 1468mm, and wheelbase of 2789mm. This has resulted in a larger interior space and improved livability. In addition, the adoption of a newly designed multi-link rear suspension has significantly improved ride comfort.
An innovative interior space woven with digital technology
The interior of the new CLA-Class features an innovative design that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into the cockpit of the future.
The large display, named the “MBUX Super Screen,” consists of a 10.25-inch digital meter, a 14-inch infotainment display, and an optional 14-inch passenger display, giving it an overwhelming presence.
The infotainment system is equipped with the new Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), which allows natural conversational operation using ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing, and Google Gemini. It also comes with a full range of comfort features, including a 12.2-inch head-up display and a 16-speaker Burmester sound system.
Luggage space is 405 litres at the rear, with 70 litres available at the front in the electric model.
Newly developed powertrain delivers outstanding driving and environmental performance
The new CLA-Class will be available in both internal combustion and electric versions, both of which will feature newly developed powertrains.
The internal combustion engine model is equipped with a 1.5L inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo engine combined with a 48V mild hybrid system, and is available in two output levels of 136ps and 163ps. The transmission is an 8-speed DCT, and the drive system is either FF or 4WD.
The electric vehicle models are available in two versions: the CLA250+ with EQ Technology and the CLA 350 4Matic with EQ Technology, which produce 268 hp and 349 hp, respectively. Equipped with a two-speed electric vehicle transmission, the CLA250+ has a range of 792 km (European value), while the CLA 350 4Matic has a range of 771 km (European value).
It also has excellent charging performance, supporting 325kW DC fast charging, allowing it to charge enough for 325km of driving in 10 minutes. The battery capacity is 85kWh, but a 58kWh battery will be added at a later date.
An advanced driving safety support system supports safe and secure driving
The new CLA-Class is equipped with the latest safety driving assistance systems. It constantly monitors not only the distance to the vehicle ahead but also the surrounding traffic conditions, expanding the situations in which steering assist is activated. It is packed with features that reduce the burden on the driver and support safe driving, such as Active Lane Changing Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist.
New CLA-Class price and release date
The price of the new CLA-Class is expected to start from the 6 million yen range due to the improved features. The previous model was priced from the late 5 million yen range, so the price range will be slightly higher.
The release date is scheduled for late 2025.
A word from the editorial department
The new Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class has evolved in all areas: design, technology, performance, and safety. This car is more than just a means of transportation; it is a special vehicle that offers the joy of ownership, the pleasure of driving, and a sense of anticipation for the future.
Mercedes-Benz news release
https://media.mercedes-benz.com/press-kit/512dd185-9ea7-49cb-89b5-c24a2be1b257
Mercedes-Benz
