MERCEDES-BENZ CLA AMG COUPE CLA 35 Touring Edition 4Matic 4dr Tip Auto

The Mercedes CLA is a very different proposition in third generation form. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Ten Second Review

Once a niche Mercedes compact model, the CLA has gone mainstream in this impressively advanced third generation form. It's still a streamlined small saloon (or estate), but now comes with a very efficient pair of propulsion options - full-Hybrid or full-EV.

Background

Welcome to a new kind of small Mercedes-Benz; this car, the third generation CLA. First launched back in 2013, with a second generation version following in 2019, the CLA model line has turned out to be both popular and profitable for the Stuttgart maker. Which perhaps was what prompted the brand to use this third generation version, announced in early 2025, as the launch pad for a whole new generation of electrified technology. Gone are the combustion petrol, diesel and PHEV units of the MK2 design. In their place, we've got an all-new 1.5-litre full-Hybrid; or a full-EV powertrain so efficient that from launch, it positioned the most frugal version of the CLA as Europe's longest-ranging and most efficient electric car. There's also one of the most slippery body shapes ever made in this segment. And the cabin that truly democratises luxury sector technology. Let's take a closer look.

Engines and Tech Spec

There are plenty of headlines here. A self charging full-Hybrid engine at last in a compact Mercedes, mated to an equally new 8-speed eDCT auto gearbox. And the biggest headline of all, an EV version offering what at the time of this model's launch was the longest range from any European market electric car. Mercedes makes no apology for the fact that the Hybrid CLA had to fit very much into the design parameters of the EV; this petrol version's 1.5-litre engine was specifically created to fit into the same front-end space as the EV's front motor. This four cylinder unit seems uncompromised as a result though, assisted by a little 1.3kWh battery energised by a 27bhp electric motor. These work together to send either 134bhp or 161bhp through the front wheels or, in the top 4MATIC version, 188bhp to all four wheels. Diesel-like economy is promised. What Mercedes really wants to talk about though, is the EV model, in volume form clumsily named the 'CLA 250+ with EQ Technology'. There's nothing clumsy about the technology on offer here though, based around an 85kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery said to be capable of taking the car up to 492 miles between charges. Lots of clever engineering lies behind that attention-grabbing stat, a 268bhp front-mounted motor working with a Porsche Taycan-like two-speed gearbox, rather than the usual single-speed EV transmission. The idea is that this provides a short first ratio for quick launches and extra efficiency at town speeds; and a much longer second ratio to improve consumption at a cruise. 0-62mph takes 6.7s on the way to 130mph. As you'd expect, the brand also offers a twin motor EV model, the 'CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology'. This gets an extra 107bhp motor with a single-speed gearbox on its front axle, giving a combined output of 349bhp, which cuts the 0-62mph sprint time to just 4.9s. Range remains impressive at 478 miles. For the future, there'll be an entry-level 58kWh CLA EV with a lower price but less advanced LFP lithium-ion-phosphate cells and a shorter range (expect about 300 miles). And a flagship Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4MATIC+ EV with a pair of Yasa-developed axial flux motors developing over 500bhp.

Design and Build

Prior to this car's introduction, Mercedes had always created entirely bespoke EV models to sit alongside their combustion counterparts. But that policy changes with this third generation CLA, which apart from front grille and badging differences, looks near-identical in either EV or Hybrid forms. Previous generation CLAs championed futuristic styling over generally mundane mechanicals. Here, if anything, it's the other way round. The sleek design is smart but unremarkable and, as previously, can be had either as a four-door coupe (read 'small saloon') or in 'Shooting Brake' form (reads 'small estate'). Previous models were cramped and claustrophobic in the back, so Mercedes has made this MK3 35mm longer, 25mm wider and 29mm taller than its predecessor; and added a standard-fit panoramic glass roof. There are some nice detail touches - like the three-pointed stars in the headlights and tail lamps. And the EV versions front grille is illuminated with a 142 individual LEDs. The silhouette is super-slippery, its drag coefficient an impressive 0.21Cd. Inside at the wheel, you're faced with a huge full-width panel that incorporates a 10.25-inch driver instrument cluster and a 14-inch central infotainment display. In this panel's full (optional) 'Superscreen' form, there's a further 14-inch passenger-side display on which your fellow traveller can watch films, go online or set navigation destinations. With the standard set-up, this passenger screen is replaced by a glass panel with LED back-lit star logos which match the ambient lighting. Media connectivity is of course cutting-edge; there's the brand's very latest MB.OS software, with Virtual Assistant voice control using generative AI and Google Maps built-in. What else? Quality has taken a step up and the style of the seats and steering wheel champion a sporty vibe, particularly if you select one of the more exuberant cabin colour choices. That bigger body (with its 2,790mm-long wheelbase) will noticeably improve rear seat space. But disappointingly, boot capacity has fallen substantially - from 462 to 405-litres. Though in the EV version, that won't matter so much because you'll also have a 101-litre under-bonnet 'frunk', the first Mercedes has ever offered.

Market and Model

Expect CLA pricing this time round to sit in the £40,000-£55,000 bracket. The big news here is that in a push for parity, Mercedes is trying to price the EV CLA on a par with the Hybrid version. This is apparently thanks to cost savings of around 30% in battery production, bringing the EV's overall price down by around 15%. As usual with Mercedes sporty models, expect a choice of various kinds of 'AMG Line' trim. There's an awful lot of new technology included here. Take MBUX Surround Navigation for instance, which the brand describes as a feature that 'seamlessly integrates the driver assistance view with a 3D representation of the surroundings and route guidance in real time on the driver display'. Then there's the Virtual Assistant with its generative AI system, which uses ChatGPT and Microsoft Bing for internet searches for the questions you might ask it. Drive assist tech has also taken a step forward. All CLAs come with the brand's DISTRONIC Distance Assist and there's the option of the company's latest 'MB.DRIVE ASSIST' system. This complements Distance Assist DISTRONIC with Steering Assist, making it a state-of-the-art 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. Standard safety features include active brake assist, lane keeping assist, speed limit warning, attention assist and a reversing camera.

Cost of Ownership

Proof that this CLA in EV form takes frugality onto the next level is delivered by a claimed efficiency figure for the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology model that manages to better 5.0mpkWh. Mercedes says that three keys to achieving that impressive stat include the slippery drag coefficient (0.21Cd), the advanced two-speed gearbox and a clever rear-mounted permanent magnet motor. The latter uses a new silicon carbide inverter that develops greater output from a smaller package, reducing weight. And the engineers claim its torque density's boosted by the magnets being inserted in an innovative double-V formation, concentrating their field. There's also a powerful regen braking system that can provide up to 200kW of stopping power off-throttle, helping to keep the battery topped up. And the 4MATIC EV model retains impressive range because its additional front motor is decoupled from the front axle when it isn't needed, reducing energy losses to friction by 90%. The carbon footprint of the new all-electric CLA is reduced by 40 percent over the entire value chain compared to its non-electrified predecessor. At the right public charging station, this third generation CLA can be DC rapid-charged at up to 320kW thanks to its adoption of an 800V electrical architecture. This enables 201 mile top up in just 10 minutes. What about the combustion Hybrid model? Well Mercedes claims that it can deliver 'diesel-level' efficiency (think over 50mpg in regular use), with a system that can provide several miles of engine-off propulsion. So much so that the brand has decided not to offer a Plug-in Hybrid derivative this time round. "We think Hybrid is the best combination we can offer for those who aren't completely ready for electric", says transmission engineer Jan Becker.

Summary

Previous generation CLA models were really more about fashion than function. This MK3 design still looks smart, but its priorities have shifted very firmly in favour of engineering technology. Here at last is a Hybrid really does deliver diesel standards of economy. And an EV that really does deliver a compact electric car with close to the operating range of petrol one. New standards have been set here and rivals will need to up their game to keep up. That being the case, it's a pity that this third generation CLA doesn't look quite as eye-catching as its predecessors once were. Because of that, this MK3 model won't necessarily bring a new kind of customer to Mercedes; just a cleverer one.

Body Glass

Electric windows

Heated glass rear windscreen + timer control

Privacy glass with dark tinting on rear side windows and rear window

Rain sensing windscreen wipers with two sensitivity settings

Variable front intermittent wipers

Brakes

Active brake assist includes forward collision warning system with autonomous braking

Adaptive brake assist with hold function and hill start assist

AMG high performance brake system with red painted brake callipers and black AMG lettering at the front, ventilated and perforated brake discs

Anti lock braking system (ABS) with brake assist

Brake pad wear warning indicator

Electric parking brake

Electronic stability programme with acceleration skid control

ESP curve dynamic assist

Front brake calipers with AMG lettering

Sports braking system

Carpets/Rugs

Floor mats with stitched AMG lettering

Chassis/Suspension

Suspension with adaptive damping system

Communication

Bluetooth connection

Hey Mercedes Voice activation

Radio aerial integrated into front and rear windshields

Wireless charging in the front centre console

Driver Aids

Car wash mode

ECO start/stop function

Driver Convenience

Active lane keeping assist

AMG DYNAMIC SELECT with drive modes(Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual and Race) incl drift mode via steering wheel shift paddles+Race Start

AMG speed sensitive power steering with two sets of steering characteristics

Attention assist - Monitors steering behaviour and long journey fatigue

Blind spot assist

Cruise control with limiter

Direct steer system

Mercedes me remote services

Speed limit assist

Driver Information

10.25 inch Instrument display with digital cockpit

10.25 inch touchscreen central media display

Fluid level warning indicator for fuel, oil, coolant and washer fluid

Hard-disk navigation

Lamp failure indicator

Mercedes me connect including emergency call system, accident recovery, breakdown and maintenance management

Outside temperature gauge

Owners manual in English

Pre-installation of private car share

Service indicator (Active Service System)

Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android auto

Trip computer in multifunction display with current consumption indicator

Driving Mirrors

Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors with integrated LED indicators

Interior mirror with black reading lamps and frameless

Embellishment Trims

Aluminium AMG design black/silver interior trim

Entertainment

DAB digital radio tuner

MBUX multimedia system

Mercedes Benz sound system (100 W) with 6 speakers

Pre installation for Mercedes Benz Link

USB (type C) ports (2) in stowage compartment and 1 in front of centre console

Exterior Body Features

AMG emblem on the front instead of the "Mercedes-Benz" laurel wreath badge

AMG Front apron with flics as air deflector elements on the outer air intakes

AMG Rear apron with specific diffuser look with four vertical fins and two round chrome plated tailpipe trim elements with a diameter of 90 mm

AMG Sports exhaust system with two round tailpipes measuring 90 mm in diameter attached in rear apron

Body colour bumpers

Body colour door handles

Front wings with TURBO 4MATIC lettering

Hand free access

Rear boot

Rear side wing doors

Rear wheel arch extensions AMG wheels

Exterior Lights

Adaptive brake lights

Headlamp assist automatic headlamp activation

High level LED third brake light

LED high performance headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights and adaptive highbeam assist

LED tail lamp

Rear fog lamp

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Air condition air vents with surround in silver chrome

Air conditioning - Two zone thermotronic luxury automatic climate control with display

Interior Features

AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather

Artico man-made leather/Microcut microfibre upholstery

Black roof lining

Brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs

Fluorescent jacket

Front centre armrest with stowage

Illuminated front door sills with changeable cover

Luggage net on driver/front passenger seat backrest

Manually height and reach adjustable steering column

Rear armrest with two integral cup holders for drinks

Silver coloured aluminium gear shift paddles on steering wheel

Stowage compartment in centre console with retractable cover

Twin front cupholders

Interior Lights

Interior lighting - 64 colour Ambient lighting

Packs

AMG Night Pack II - CLA

AMG Night package - CLA 35/45

Keyless go comfort pack - CLA

Light and sight pack - CLA

Mirror pack with Self dimming rear view mirror - CLA

Seat comfort pack - CLA

Safety

Active bonnet pedestrain safety measure which detects an impact and raises bonnet by 65mm

Black seat belts

Childproof locks manually operated for rear doors and electrically operated for rear power windows

Crash responsive emergency lighting

Driver and front passenger head and sidebags

Driver and front passenger windowbags

Drivers knee airbag

Dual stage driver and front passenger airbags

Exit warning

Front and rear seatbelt reminder

Front passenger seat occupancy sensor

Three point rear seat belts

Tyre pressure monitoring system

Warning triangle and first aid kit

Seats

3 seat bench in 2nd row

4 way lumbar support

40:20:40 split folding rear seat backrests

Automatic child seat recognition sensor

Heated front seats

Rear head restraints

Single front passenger seat

Sport seats with fixed head restraints

Two outer rear seat isofix and top tether child seat fixing points

Security

Alarm system with immobiliser and interior protection -Thatcham category 1

Guard 360 deg vehicle protection - tow away protection with visual, acoustic warning, interior monitoring, preinstallation for parking damage

Remote central locking and crash sensor with emergency opening function

Transmission

4MATIC permanent four wheel drive

AMG performance 4MATIC+ with torque control distribution

Rear axle multi-link

Vanity Mirrors

Sunvisors with illuminated vanity mirrors

Wheels

Summer tyres

Wheels - Alloy

19" AMG 5 twin spoke light alloy wheels painted in high gloss black with high sheen finish

Wheels - Spare

Tirefit tyre sealant kit

Emissions - ICE

CO: 0.128

HC: 0.008

HC+NOx: N

Noise Level dB(A): 69

NOx: 0.01

Particles: 0.0007

Standard Emissions: EURO 6

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 191

Engine and Drive Train

Camshaft: DOHC

Catalytic Convertor: No

CC: 1991

Compression Ratio: 10.0:1

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Cylinders: 4

Cylinders - Bore (mm): 83

Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 92

Engine Layout: FRONT TRANSVERSE

Fuel Delivery: TURBO DIRECT INJECTION

Gears: 8 SPEED

Number of Valves: 16

Transmission: SEMI-AUTO

Fuel Consumption - ICE

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 8.4

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High: 7.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High: 7.2

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low: 13.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium: 8.7

WLTP - MPG - Comb: 33.6

WLTP - MPG - Extra High: 37.7

WLTP - MPG - High: 39.2

WLTP - MPG - Low: 21.6

WLTP - MPG - Medium: 32.5

General

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: No

Badge Engine CC: 2.0

Badge Power: 306

Based On ID: N

Coin Description: 4 MATIC

Coin Series: Touring Edition

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

Generation Mark: 2

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 37E

Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years: 30

Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years: 3

NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: 94

NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: 89

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: 5

NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: 93

NCAP Safety Assist %: 85

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 12

Service Interval Mileage: 12500

Special Edition: 0

Special Order: 0

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 999999

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

Performance

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

0 to 62 mph (secs): 4.9

Engine Power - BHP: 306

Engine Power - KW: 225

Engine Power - PS: No

Engine Power - RPM: 6100

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 295

Engine Torque - MKG: 40.8

Engine Torque - NM: 400

Engine Torque - RPM: 2500

Top Speed: 155

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Tyres

Alloys?: No

Space Saver?: 0

Tyre Size Front: 235/35 R19

Tyre Size Rear: 235/35 R19

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Wheel Style: AMG 5 TWIN SPOKE

Wheel Type: 19" ALLOY

Vehicle Dimensions

Height: 1402

Height (including roof rails): N

Length: 4692

Wheelbase: 2729

Width: 1834

Width (including mirrors): 1999

Weight and Capacities

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 51

Gross Vehicle Weight: 2155

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 460

Max. Loading Weight: 475

Max. Roof Load: 100

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 1800

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750

Minimum Kerbweight: 1680

No. of Seats: 5

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 11.6

Exterior Body Features

Manufaktur magno paint

Manufaktur metallic paint

Metallic paint

Interior Features

Leather upholstery

Two tone leather upholstery

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Cosmos black

Metallic - High tech silver

Metallic - Mountain grey

Metallic - Spectral blue

Paint - Solid

Solid - Polar white

Paint - Special

Manufaktur magno - Mountain grey

Manufaktur metallic - Patagonia red

Trim - Leather

Leather - Black

Two tone leather - Red pepper/black

Two tone leather - Titanium grey pearl/black

Trim - Part Leather

Artico man-made leather/Microcut microfibre - Black with red stitching