Mercedes-Benz CLA Hits Indian Shores; All Details Here

Mercedes-Benz India has lifted the covers off the all-new CLA electric sedan, signalling a major shift in its entry-luxury lineup. Unlike the earlier CLA that was sold with petrol and diesel engines before being discontinued in 2020, the new-generation model arrives exclusively as a battery-electric vehicle. It effectively steps in for multiple entry models in the brand's portfolio - replacing the A-Class Limousine and gradually taking over the roles of the EQA and EQB electric SUVs.

The new CLA EV is expected to be priced in the Rs. 55-60 lakh (ex-showroom) bracket and will open for bookings from 10 March 2026, with market launch slated for April. Here's a comprehensive look at what the new electric sedan brings to the table. Before moving ahead, do join our 91Wheels WA Community to stay versed on the latest automotive news.

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Striking Aero-focused Design

The latest CLA retains its signature coupe-sedan proportions but evolves them with a stronger aerodynamic focus. Its drag coefficient of 0.21 is among the lowest in its segment, helping maximise efficiency and range. A stretched wheelbase, short overhangs and low stance give the car a planted appearance.

The front fascia is dominated by a gloss-black closed grille panel embedded with numerous illuminated three-pointed stars, linked visually to slim LED headlamps via a full-width light strip. Sculpted air channels and flush elements further reduce drag.

From the side, frameless windows and a sweeping roofline remain defining cues, now complemented by flush door handles and aero-optimised alloy wheels. The rear mirrors the front lighting signature with a connected LED tail-lamp featuring star graphics. Chrome accents and a panoramic glass roof with heat-rejection coating add a premium touch.

Tech-heavy Minimalist Cabin

Inside, the CLA EV adopts a clean, digital-first layout centred around twin displays: a 10.25-inch driver's screen and a 14-inch central infotainment unit. The system runs Mercedes latest MBUX interface with integrated AI assistants and connected-car capabilities.

The cabin ambience is elevated by 64-colour lighting, metallic and carbon-look trim, and a sporty three-spoke steering wheel with touch controls. Comfort and convenience features include powered front seats with heating, ventilation and massage functions, wireless smartphone integration, multiple high-speed USB-C ports, wireless charging and a 16-speaker Burmester audio setup with Dolby Atmos.

Long-range EV powertrain with 800V tech

The India-bound CLA will be offered in a single 250+ configuration. It uses an 85.5kWh battery paired with a rear-mounted electric motor producing 268bhp and 335Nm, driving the rear wheels through a two-speed transmission. Mercedes claims a 0-100kmph sprint in 6.7 seconds.

A highlight is the 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling ultra-fast DC charging at up to 320kW. Under ideal conditions, this setup can add roughly 300km of range in about 10 minutes. The WLTP-rated driving range stands at up to 792km, positioning the CLA among the longest-range EVs expected in India.

Top-tier safety credentials

The new CLA has secured a five-star Euro NCAP rating, with strong scores across occupant and vulnerable-road-user protection categories. It features eight airbags, advanced driver-assistance systems, blind-spot monitoring, a 360-degree camera, tyre-pressure monitoring and electronic parking brake.

A notable safety function detects when a child seat is installed and automatically disables the corresponding airbag, enhancing occupant protection.

New MMA platform and improved practicality

The CLA EV debuts Mercedes-Benz's Modular MMA electric architecture, designed for compact luxury EVs. Compared to the earlier CLA, the new model is larger in every direction, measuring 4,723mm in length, 1,855mm in width and 1,468mm in height, with a 2,790mm wheelbase.

Despite its coupe silhouette, practicality improves thanks to a 405-litre boot and an additional 101-litre front storage compartment - a first for the CLA badge.

Positioning and rivals

Although it's a sedan, the CLA's expected pricing places it in the same territory as premium electric SUVs such as the BMW iX1, Volvo XC40 Recharge, Kia EV6 and Tesla Model Y. With its blend of long range, fast-charging capability and luxury-brand appeal, Mercedes aims to attract buyers looking to step into electric luxury motoring around the 960 lakh mark.

Launch timeline

Bookings for the new Mercedes-Benz CLA EV will begin on 10 March 2026, with deliveries expected to follow soon after its official launch in April. As Mercedes-Benz India's most accessible electric model yet, the CLA marks a pivotal step in the brand's transition toward an all-electric entry-luxury lineup.

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