Mercedes-Benz India recently launched the new Mercedes-Benz CLA electric in the Indian market, priced from Rs 55 lakh (ex-showroom). This makes the new CLA EV the most affordable Mercedes-Benz available in India. Pre-bookings are already underway, with interested customers able to book online or visit their nearest dealership. Mercedes reports that it has already received over 400 bookings. In this article, we compare the new Mercedes-Benz CLA EV with the BYD Seal electric.
Mercedes-Benz CLA vs BYD Seal: Price and Variants
The new Mercedes-Benz CLA is available in three variants: CLA 200 Standard Range Progressive Line at Rs 55 lakh, CLA 250+ Long Range AMG Line at Rs 59 lakh, and CLA 250+ Long Range Launch Edition at Rs 64 lakh (all prices ex-showroom). The BYD Seal also comes in three variants: Dynamic at Rs 41 lakh, Premium at Rs 45.7 lakh, and Premium Performance at Rs 53.15 lakh (all ex-showroom). The CLA is priced higher overall, ranging from Rs 55 lakh to Rs 64 lakh, while the BYD Seal is positioned between Rs 41 lakh and Rs 53.15 lakh, making it the more affordable option across variants.
Mercedes-Benz CLA vs BYD Seal: Dimensions
In terms of dimensions, the BYD Seal measures 4,800 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,460 mm in height, with a 2,920 mm wheelbase. The new Mercedes-Benz CLA measures 4,723 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, and 1,468 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,790 mm. The BYD Seal is 77 mm longer, 20 mm wider, and has a 130 mm longer wheelbase, while the Mercedes-Benz CLA is 8 mm taller.
Mercedes-Benz CLA vs BYD Seal: Battery and Range
The CLA electric offers two battery pack options. The first is an 85 kWh NMC battery pack paired with a rear-mounted electric motor producing 272 hp and 335 Nm, with a claimed 0-100 kph time of 6.7 seconds and a WLTP-claimed range of up to 792 km. It also features a two-speed gearbox. The second option is a 58 kWh battery with a WLTP-claimed range of up to 542 km, powered by a rear-mounted electric motor producing 224 hp and 335 Nm, with a claimed 0-100 kph time of 7.5 seconds. The CLA EV supports fast charging at up to 320 kW through its 800V architecture, enabling a 300 km range top-up in 10 minutes. Mercedes has also increased ground clearance and revised the suspension for Indian conditions.
The BYD Seal is offered with two battery pack options: a 61.4 kWh LFP Blade battery paired with a single 204 hp electric motor driving the rear wheels, offering a claimed range of up to 510 km. The larger 82.5 kWh battery pack is paired with a single electric motor producing 313 hp, also rear-wheel drive, with a claimed range of 650 km. The top-of-the-line AWD Performance variant uses an 82.5 kWh battery pack with dual motors producing a combined 530 hp, all-wheel drive, and a claimed range of up to 580 km.
Mercedes-Benz CLA vs BYD Seal: Features
The CLA electric features a minimalist, screen-focused cabin with a dual-screen layout comprising a 10.25-inch digital driver's display and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The cabin includes a three-spoke steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls and a carbon-fibre finish on the centre console. Features include 64-colour ambient lighting, a 16-speaker Burmester sound system with Dolby Atmos, heated, ventilated, and powered front seats, wireless charging, six 100W USB-C fast-charging ports, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, connected car technology, and the latest MBUX with AI integration.
The BYD Seal features a rotating 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system along with a 10.25-inch digital driver's display, powered and climate-controlled front seats, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, leather upholstery, and 19-inch alloy wheels.
