Mercedes-Benz India has launched the new Mercedes-Benz CLA electric in the Indian market, with prices starting from Rs 55 lakh (ex-showroom). This makes it the most affordable Mercedes-Benz currently available in India. Customers can book the new CLA online or at their nearest dealership, and Mercedes has already received over 400 bookings. In this article, we compare the new Mercedes-Benz CLA EV with the Tesla Model Y.
Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Tesla Model Y: Price and Variants
The new Mercedes-Benz CLA is available in three variants: the CLA 200 Standard Range Progressive Line at Rs 55 lakh, the CLA 250+ Long Range AMG Line at Rs 59 lakh, and the limited-edition CLA 250+ Long Range Launch Edition at Rs 64 lakh (all prices ex-showroom). The Tesla Model Y is also offered in three variants: Premium RWD at Rs 59.89 lakh, Premium Long Range at Rs 67.89 lakh, and the recently launched Model Y L Premium AWD at Rs 61.99 lakh (all ex-showroom). The CLA range starts lower at Rs 55 lakh, undercutting the Model Y's entry price. However, the top-end CLA (Rs 64 lakh) sits below the Model Y Long Range (Rs 67.89 lakh) but above the AWD variant (Rs 61.99 lakh).
Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Tesla Model Y: Dimensions
Comparing dimensions, the CLA measures 4,800 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,460 mm in height, with a 2,920 mm wheelbase. The Tesla Model Y measures 4,790 mm in length, 1,982 mm in width, and 1,642 mm in height, with a 2,890 mm wheelbase (dimensions of the regular Model Y, not the long wheelbase version). The CLA is longer and has a longer wheelbase, while the Model Y is significantly wider and taller.
Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Tesla Model Y: 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 Tesla Model Y is offered in three battery pack options: 60 kWh with 235 hp and a claimed range of 500 km, 75 kWh with 335 hp and a claimed range of 661 km, and 88 kWh with dual motors and a claimed range of 681 km.
Mercedes-Benz CLA vs Tesla Model Y: Features
Inside, the CLA electric features a minimalist, screen-focused cabin that prioritises technology and usability. The highlight is a dual-screen layout consisting of 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, a carbon-fibre finish on the centre console, 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 and Android Auto, connected car technology, and the latest MBUX with AI integration. The top-spec Model Y long wheelbase features a six-seat configuration in a 2+2+2 layout, heated and ventilated seats for both the front and second row, a heated steering wheel, a 16-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual wireless charging pads, extended under-thigh support for the front seats, and pillar-mounted rear AC vents.
