OFFICIAL NEW MERCEDES CLA

REVEALED Next-generation CLA might look familiar, but cutting-edge battery tech promises a range of nearly 500 miles

- Jordan Katsianis

THE Mercedes CLA with EQ Technology might just be the most important new EV revealed in 2025, thanks to a groundbreaking range that raises the stakes right across the market. The new CLA250+ leads the way with up to 491 miles on the official cycle, which is truly miles ahead of any rival.

The new Mercedes is able to offer this level of electric range thanks to not only a big battery pack, but also a highly efficient e-motor set-up and ultra-slick aerodynamics.

However, all this is packaged in a body that doesn't look quite as revolutionary as you might expect. Mercedes tried a 'shock and awe' design strategy with the EQS and EQE EVs, but faced something of a backlash. This time it's aiming for a 'hidden in plain sight' approach, with a more conventional-looking EV.

Importantly, Mercedes will also sell combustion-powered variants of the CLA. We'll get more information on these new petrol-powered models in a few months' time.

CLA sales will kick off with all-electric variants under the EQ Technology banner in the summer. These models will initially come with single or dual-motor options paired with an 85kWh battery pack. A 58kWh battery will follow, lowering the cost but compromising range.

It's the CLA250+ single-motor variant that's making headlines, though, because it will be launched with that huge range figure of between 430 and 491 miles. It's no slouch, either; the rear-mounted motor produces 286bhp, and can get the CLA from 0-62mph in just 6.7 seconds. Top speed is 130mph.

An all-wheel-drive, dual-motor CLA350 model will come with the same battery pack, and range figures of between 416 and 478 miles. Power jumps to 348bhp in this variant, with the 0-62mph time dropping to 4.9 seconds. Both versions have a two-speed transmission on the rear motor that allows for punchier acceleration at low speeds and more effortless cruising at high speeds.