Starting Specifications and Price
Mercedes-Benz has introduced the electric version of the 2026 CLA, named the CLA EQ. The base model CLA 250+ with EQ Technology will cost $47,250 excluding an additional delivery fee of $1,250. This is $4,500 more expensive than the previous model with an internal combustion engine and only $2,400 cheaper than the C-Class.
Technical Features of the Base Model
The CLA 250+ is equipped with an 85 kWh battery and an electric motor on the rear axle, producing 268 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. This allows the sedan to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, and the top speed is limited to 130 mph.
One of the key advantages is the impressive range — up to 374 miles according to EPA estimates. The model also supports fast charging with a power of 320 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in just 22 minutes.
Enhanced Performance and Compromises
For those seeking more power, the CLA 350 4Matic with EQ Technology is available at a price of $49,800. It is equipped with an all-wheel-drive system with two motors, a combined power of 349 hp, and a torque of 380 lb-ft. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes 4.8 seconds, but the range is reduced to 312 miles.
Standard Equipment
The base CLA 250+ trim includes LED lighting, a radiator grille with 142 individual illuminated stars, rain sensors, a panoramic glass roof, and 17-inch wheels.
The interior features a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch multimedia system, and heated front seats with MB-Tex upholstery. Also present are “smoky silver” trim, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an automatic climate control system, facial recognition technology, and a selfie/video camera.
Standard driver assistance systems include Distance Assist Distronic, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist Plus, Evasive Steering Assist, Exit Warning Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, and Car-to-X technology.
Additional Options and Trims
The Exclusive trim adds flush-mounted door handles, Keyless-Go, wireless smartphone charging, dual-zone climate control, an ambient lighting system with 64 colors, a rear armrest with cupholders, and MB.Drive Parking Assist.
The top Pinnacle trim includes the MBUX Superscreen with a 14-inch display for the front passenger, more advanced LED headlights, a head-up display, hands-free trunk opening, illuminated sill panels, and digital key technology.
Numerous options are available, such as the AMG Line and Night packages, wheels ranging from 18 to 19 inches in diameter, leather seats, stainless steel pedals, aluminum or wood trim, a heated steering wheel, and a 16-speaker Burmester audio system.
The price of the new CLA EQ raises questions about its competitiveness, considering it is only slightly cheaper than the C-Class. However, technical characteristics such as the long range and fast charging may justify the higher cost for electric car enthusiasts. The rising prices of Mercedes electric vehicles may indicate a general trend in the premium segment, where manufacturers are trying to offset the costs of developing new technologies.