Mercedes-Benz India Unveils New All-Electric CLA Sedan
Mercedes-Benz India has officially revealed the new Mercedes-Benz CLA electric sedan in the Indian market, marking a significant shift in the brand's entry-level portfolio. The CLA, previously available with internal combustion engines until its discontinuation in 2020, now returns as a fully electric vehicle. This new model will replace the A-Class sedan and also supplant the EQA and EQB electric vehicles in Mercedes-Benz's lineup, positioning itself as a key player in the premium electric segment.
Pricing and Market Competition
The new Mercedes-Benz CLA electric is expected to be priced between ₹55 lakh and ₹60 lakh (ex-showroom). While it lacks direct rivals in its specific category, it is anticipated to compete on price with electric models such as the BMW iX1, Volvo XC40 Recharge, Kia EV6, and Tesla Model Y, alongside other EVs positioned around the ₹60 lakh mark. The official launch is scheduled for April 2026, with pre-bookings commencing from March 2026.
Design and Aerodynamics
The new CLA EV emphasizes aerodynamics, featuring a low drag coefficient of 0.21. Its design includes a low stance, longer wheelbase, and short overhangs for balanced proportions. At the front, it sports a closed gloss black grille panel with illuminated star-pattern elements and a central Mercedes emblem, complemented by slim LED headlamps connected by a light bar. The redesigned bumper incorporates functional air inlets for cooling and airflow.
From the side, the model retains frameless doors and a sloping roofline, along with flush door handles and aerodynamically designed alloy wheels to enhance efficiency. The rear features a full-width LED light bar with star-pattern detailing, mirroring the front lighting signature, and a clean bumper finish. Additional highlights include chrome elements, a front grille with 142 small backlit stars, a panoramic glass roof with heat-protective coating, and five-spoke aero wheels.
Interior and Advanced Features
The interior of the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV adopts a minimalist, screen-focused approach, prioritizing technology and usability. The cabin is dominated by a dual-screen layout comprising a 10.25-inch digital driver's display and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. A three-spoke steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls and a carbon-fiber finish on the centre console add a sporty visual touch.
Key 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 and Android Auto, connected car technology, and the latest MBUX system with AI integration.
Battery, Range, and Charging Capabilities
The CLA electric will be offered in a single CLA 250 plus variant, equipped with an 85 kWh battery pack paired with a single electric motor. This setup delivers power to the rear wheels, producing 268 horsepower and 335 Nm of torque, and includes a two-speed gearbox. The claimed range is up to 792 km (WLTP).
The vehicle features an 800-volt electrical architecture, supporting DC fast charging at speeds of up to 320 kW. Mercedes-Benz claims this can add approximately 300 km of driving range in about 10 minutes under ideal conditions, enhancing practicality for long-distance travel.
Safety Ratings and Features
In terms of safety, the new CLA has received a full 5-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. It achieved 94% in Adult Occupant Protection and 89% in Child Occupant Protection. The vehicle includes a system that detects child seat installation and automatically deactivates relevant airbags. For Vulnerable Road User protection, covering pedestrians and cyclists, it scored 93%.
Safety features encompass eight airbags, a 360-degree camera with blind-spot monitoring, a tyre-pressure monitoring system, an electronic parking brake, and ASAS (Advanced Safety Assist Systems).
Platform and Dimensions
The new CLA is built on Mercedes-Benz's MMA architecture, a platform specifically developed for electric vehicles. Compared to its predecessor, it has grown in size, measuring 4,723 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, and 1,468 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,790 mm. Practicality is boosted by a 101-litre front storage compartment and a 405-litre boot, offering ample space for storage and daily use.
