Mercedes-Benz CLA Sedan: Price, Specs, Range & Review
The Mercedes-Benz CLA Sedan is a compact luxury four-door that now gives buyers a choice between hybrid and fully electric power. It combines a sleek coupe-like shape, a technology-focused cabin, and pricing that places it below the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
The current US lineup includes the CLA 220 Hybrid, CLA 250+ Electric, and CLA 350 4MATIC Electric. The hybrid suits buyers who want gasoline refueling with improved efficiency, while the electric models bring much longer range than most luxury EVs in this price range.
WheelPedia Rating: 8.5/10
The Mercedes-Benz CLA Sedan earns an 8.5/10 WheelPedia Rating for its strong electric range, advanced technology, efficient powertrains, attractive design, and competitive pricing for a luxury-brand sedan.
Its main compromises are limited rear-seat space for taller adults, small cargo capacity, touchscreen-heavy controls, and unknown long-term reliability for a completely redesigned model.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 8.4/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and ownership | 8.0/10 | 15% |
| Performance and driving | 8.5/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and practicality | 7.8/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency and range | 9.4/10 | 15% |
| Features and technology | 9.1/10 | 10% |
| Price and value | 8.8/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 8.5/10 | — |
See how WheelPedia rates cars for the full scoring method.
Key Highlights
- Starts from $43,900 MSRP in the US, before destination, taxes, registration, and options.
- Available as a hybrid or fully electric sedan.
- CLA 220 Hybrid uses a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with 48-volt hybrid assistance.
- CLA 250+ Electric delivers an EPA-estimated 374 miles of range.
- CLA 350 4MATIC Electric delivers an EPA-estimated 312 miles of range with all-wheel drive.
- Electric models use an 85-kWh battery and a two-speed transmission.
- DC fast charging reaches up to 320 kW on electric models.
- Mercedes estimates a 10–80% DC charge in about 22 minutes.
- Standard fixed panoramic roof, heated power front seats, and 14-inch central touchscreen.
- Best for buyers who want luxury-brand design and technology without moving to a larger, more expensive sedan.
Quick Specifications
| Specification | CLA 250+ Electric Sedan |
| Vehicle type | Compact luxury electric sedan |
| Seating capacity | 5 |
| Motor | Rear permanent-magnet synchronous motor |
| Power | 268 hp |
| Torque | 247 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Transmission | Two-speed automatic |
| Battery capacity | 85 kWh |
| EPA-estimated range | 374 miles |
| 0–60 mph | 6.6 seconds |
| DC fast-charging speed | Up to 320 kW |
| DC fast-charging time | 10–80% in about 22 minutes |
| Cargo capacity | 1.4 cu. ft. front / 10.3 cu. ft. rear |
Expert Tip: The CLA 250+ Electric is the standout choice for most buyers who can charge at home. Its 374-mile EPA range, lower price than the all-wheel-drive model, and rear-wheel-drive layout make it the strongest all-round CLA.
About the Mercedes-Benz CLA Sedan
The CLA sits below the C-Class in Mercedes-Benz’s sedan range, but this new generation is not simply an entry-level alternative. It introduces Mercedes’ latest MBUX software, a more advanced electric platform, and a choice of hybrid or electric power.
The CLA 220 Hybrid is the simplest ownership choice for buyers who are not ready for public charging or home charging. The CLA 250+ Electric is the efficiency leader, while the CLA 350 4MATIC Electric adds more power and all-wheel-drive confidence.
This page covers the current US CLA Sedan lineup. Future AMG versions, if introduced, should be treated as separate performance variants.
Price and Trims
These are current US starting MSRPs. Final pricing can vary with destination charges, paint, wheels, package choices, dealer-installed accessories, and local market conditions. Check the current Mercedes-Benz CLA Sedan lineup before buying.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Powertrain | Drivetrain | Range or Fuel Economy | 0–60 mph |
| CLA 220 Hybrid Sedan | $43,900 | 1.5L turbo hybrid | FWD | 29 city / 39 highway mpg | 7.1 sec |
| CLA 250+ Electric Sedan | $47,950 | Single electric motor | RWD | 374-mile EPA range | 6.6 sec |
| CLA 350 4MATIC Electric Sedan | $50,500 | Dual electric motors | AWD | 312-mile EPA range | 4.8 sec |
Which CLA Sedan Trim Is Best?
- Best overall: CLA 250+ Electric Sedan
- Best for maximum range: CLA 250+ Electric Sedan
- Best for all-weather driving: CLA 350 4MATIC Electric Sedan
- Best for buyers without charging access: CLA 220 Hybrid Sedan
- Best performance value: CLA 350 4MATIC Electric Sedan
The CLA 250+ is the strongest overall choice because it provides excellent range at a relatively accessible luxury-EV price. The CLA 350 is worth the extra money if you need all-wheel drive or want much quicker acceleration.
The CLA 220 Hybrid makes sense if you cannot charge regularly. It is efficient for a gasoline-powered luxury sedan, but its value is weaker than the electric models if home charging is available.
Powertrain and Performance
| Model | Powertrain | Power | Torque | Drivetrain |
| CLA 220 Hybrid | 1.5L turbo engine with 48V hybrid assist | 188-hp gas engine + 30-hp electric motor | 280 lb-ft | FWD |
| CLA 250+ Electric | Rear electric motor | 268 hp | 247 lb-ft | RWD |
| CLA 350 4MATIC Electric | Dual electric motors | 349 hp | 380 lb-ft | AWD |
The CLA 220 Hybrid uses an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with an integrated 48-volt electric motor. It is aimed at fuel savings and everyday driving rather than performance.
Electric CLA models use a two-speed transmission. The first gear helps response from a stop, while the second gear supports highway efficiency. The CLA 250+ is smooth and quiet, while the CLA 350 has enough power to feel genuinely quick.
0–60 MPH Performance
| Model | Manufacturer-Claimed 0–60 mph Time |
| CLA 220 Hybrid Sedan | 7.1 sec |
| CLA 250+ Electric Sedan | 6.6 sec |
| CLA 350 4MATIC Electric Sedan | 4.8 sec |
The CLA 350 4MATIC is the clear performance choice. Its dual motors and all-wheel drive give it a major advantage in acceleration and wet-weather traction.
The CLA 250+ does not feel slow. Its instant electric response makes city driving and highway merging easy, even though it is not intended to be a performance model.
Driving Experience
The CLA is smaller and easier to park than a C-Class, but its low roofline and coupe-like shape make it feel more stylish than practical. Its standard suspension is tuned for daily comfort, though larger wheel options can make rough roads more noticeable.
Electric models are quieter than the hybrid and feel more responsive at lower speeds. The CLA 250+ has a rear-wheel-drive balance that should appeal to drivers who prefer a more natural steering feel, while the CLA 350 adds stability in rain, snow, and slippery conditions.
The hybrid uses front-wheel drive and has a more conventional driving character. It is the right option for buyers who want a luxury compact sedan without changing their fueling habits.
Fuel Economy, Range, and Charging
CLA 220 Hybrid Fuel Economy
| Model | City | Highway |
| CLA 220 Hybrid Sedan | 29 mpg | 39 mpg |
The CLA 220 Hybrid requires premium unleaded gasoline. Its fuel economy is respectable, but buyers should include premium-fuel costs when comparing it with the electric models.
Electric CLA Range and Charging
| Model | EPA-Estimated Range | Battery | DC Fast Charging |
| CLA 250+ Electric Sedan | 374 miles | 85 kWh | Up to 320 kW |
| CLA 350 4MATIC Electric Sedan | 312 miles | 85 kWh | Up to 320 kW |
At a compatible DC fast charger, Mercedes estimates the electric CLA can charge from 10% to 80% in about 22 minutes. A suitable Level 2 home charger can charge the battery from 10% to 100% in approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes.
The electric CLA uses a NACS connector for DC fast charging and a J1772 connector for AC charging. Actual driving range changes with speed, weather, wheel choice, terrain, passenger load, and heating or air-conditioning use.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The CLA’s cabin has a more modern look than the previous model, led by a wide digital dashboard and a 14-inch center touchscreen. It is not as spacious or formal as a C-Class, but it offers a strong mix of design, technology, and standard comfort features.
Standard and available features include:
- 14-inch central touchscreen
- Dual-screen digital dashboard
- Available front-passenger display through the Superscreen option
- Latest-generation MBUX infotainment system
- Voice control and personalized user profiles
- Google-based navigation and AI-assisted voice functions
- Over-the-air software updates
- Heated power front seats with memory
- Fixed panoramic glass roof
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Available 64-color ambient lighting
- Available wood, aluminum, and natural-fiber interior trim
- MB-Tex upholstery with available leather upgrades
- Front and rear wireless charging availability
- Electric-model front trunk with organizer
The front seats are comfortable and the driving position is easy to adjust. Rear-seat space is more limited, particularly for taller adults. The CLA works best for singles, couples, and small families rather than buyers who regularly carry full-size rear passengers.
Dimensions, Cargo, and Practicality
| Dimension | CLA 220 Hybrid | Electric CLA Models |
| Length | 187.9 in. | 185.9 in. |
| Width without mirrors | 73.0 in. | 73.0 in. |
| Height | 57.9 in. | 57.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 109.8 in. | 109.8 in. |
| Front headroom | 40.9 in. | 40.9 in. |
| Rear headroom | 36.8 in. | 36.8 in. |
| Rear legroom | 33.6 in. | 33.6 in. |
| Hybrid cargo capacity | 14.3 cu. ft. | — |
| Electric cargo capacity | — | 1.4 cu. ft. front / 10.3 cu. ft. rear |
| Seating capacity | 5 | 5 |
The CLA Hybrid offers a more useful conventional trunk. Electric models add a small front trunk, but their rear cargo area is smaller.
The low roofline makes the CLA less practical than a compact SUV. Buyers who need more rear-seat room, a larger cargo area, or easier child-seat access should consider a crossover instead.
Exterior Design
The CLA has a sleek fastback roofline, short overhangs, and a planted stance. Electric models use an illuminated star-pattern front panel, while the hybrid uses chrome stars and an illuminated grille surround.
A fixed panoramic roof is standard. Wheel options range from lightweight 17-inch aero wheels on the CLA 250+ to larger 18-inch and 19-inch designs. The CLA 220 Hybrid and CLA 350 4MATIC include standard 18-inch wheels.
Available AMG Line, AMG Line Plus, and Night Package options add sportier bumpers, darker trim, and more aggressive wheel designs.
Safety Features and Ratings
Standard and available safety features include:
- Active Brake Assist
- Blind Spot Assist
- Active Lane Keeping Assist
- Evasive Steering Assist
- Active Emergency Stop Assist
- Exit Warning Assist
- PRE-SAFE PLUS occupant protection
- Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC availability
- Active Steering Assist availability
- Active Lane Change Assist availability
- Traffic Sign Assist
- GUARD 360 vehicle-monitoring system
- Parking cameras and active parking assistance availability
The CLA is a new generation, so current IIHS and NHTSA crash-test ratings have not been published. Earlier-generation CLA ratings do not apply to this redesigned model. Buyers should check the IIHS ratings database and NHTSA safety-ratings site before purchase for updates.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The CLA introduces new hybrid, electric, software, and infotainment systems. It has strong potential as a lower-cost entry point into Mercedes-Benz ownership, but long-term reliability data will take time to develop.
| Coverage | Length |
| New Vehicle Limited Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Electric-model battery coverage | Verify the written terms for the specific vehicle before purchase |
The hybrid requires premium fuel and conventional service items such as oil changes, filters, and engine maintenance. Electric models remove those engine-service needs but can still have higher insurance, tire, wheel, suspension, and electronics repair costs than mainstream compact cars.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Strong choice of hybrid and electric powertrains
- Excellent 374-mile EPA range from CLA 250+
- Fast 320-kW DC charging for electric models
- Attractive pricing for a luxury-brand EV
- CLA 350 delivers strong all-wheel-drive performance
- Modern MBUX dashboard and available Superscreen
- Standard heated power front seats and panoramic roof
- Compact dimensions make city parking easier
- Distinctive exterior design
What We Don’t Like
- Rear-seat room is limited for taller passengers
- Electric rear cargo space is small
- Hybrid requires premium gasoline
- New platform has limited long-term reliability history
- Some advanced features depend on subscriptions or Digital Extras
- Large wheels can reduce ride comfort
- No current US crash-test rating published
Competitors
The CLA competes across both luxury hybrid and electric segments:
- The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe is a traditional compact luxury-sedan alternative with a more conventional layout.
- The Audi A3 is worth considering for buyers who prefer a smaller, simpler gasoline-powered luxury sedan.
- The Acura Integra offers more practicality and a liftback body at a lower price.
- The Tesla Model 3 is a direct electric rival for buyers who prioritize charging access, performance, and range.
- The Polestar 2 is another electric alternative with a more understated design.
- The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the better Mercedes choice for buyers who want more rear-seat room, a larger cabin, and a more traditional luxury-sedan feel.
Related WheelPedia Content
The Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan is a larger electric Mercedes-Benz option for buyers who want more rear-seat space and flagship-style comfort.
For SUV buyers, the Mercedes-Benz EQB offers a higher seating position and available third-row flexibility.
Before financing a CLA, read our guides to car loan preapproval and APR vs. interest rate on a car loan.
Should You Buy the Mercedes-Benz CLA Sedan?
Buy the CLA if you want a compact luxury sedan with modern technology, attractive design, and a choice between hybrid convenience and electric range.
Choose the CLA 220 Hybrid if you do not have reliable charging access and prefer a conventional ownership experience. Choose the CLA 250+ Electric if you can charge at home and want the strongest value, longest range, and lowest day-to-day energy cost. Choose the CLA 350 4MATIC Electric if you need all-wheel drive or want noticeably stronger acceleration.
Skip the CLA if rear-seat comfort, cargo capacity, a traditional luxury-sedan shape, or proven long-term reliability are your biggest priorities.
Mercedes-Benz CLA Sedan FAQs
How much does the Mercedes-Benz CLA cost?
The CLA starts from $43,900 MSRP for the CLA 220 Hybrid. The CLA 250+ Electric starts from $47,950, while the CLA 350 4MATIC Electric starts from $50,500.
Is the Mercedes-Benz CLA available as an electric car?
Yes. The CLA 250+ Electric and CLA 350 4MATIC Electric are fully electric models. The CLA 220 Hybrid uses gasoline and 48-volt hybrid assistance.
What is the range of the electric Mercedes-Benz CLA?
The CLA 250+ Electric has an EPA-estimated range of 374 miles. The all-wheel-drive CLA 350 4MATIC Electric has an EPA-estimated range of 312 miles.
Does the CLA have all-wheel drive?
The CLA 350 4MATIC Electric has all-wheel drive. The CLA 220 Hybrid is front-wheel drive, while the CLA 250+ Electric is rear-wheel drive.
How fast does the Mercedes-Benz CLA charge?
Electric CLA models can charge at up to 320 kW at compatible DC fast chargers. Mercedes estimates a 10–80% charge in around 22 minutes.
Does the CLA Hybrid need premium gas?
Yes. Mercedes-Benz specifies premium unleaded gasoline for the CLA 220 Hybrid.
How fast is the Mercedes-Benz CLA?
The CLA 220 Hybrid reaches 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. The CLA 250+ Electric does it in 6.6 seconds, while the CLA 350 4MATIC Electric reaches 60 mph in 4.8 seconds.
Does the CLA have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. The current CLA offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Is the Mercedes-Benz CLA good for families?
It can work for small families, but its rear-seat space and low roofline make it less practical than a compact SUV or a larger sedan. It is better suited to singles, couples, and buyers with occasional rear passengers.
What is the best Mercedes-Benz CLA trim?
For most buyers, the CLA 250+ Electric is the best trim because it combines a 374-mile EPA range, strong technology, and a competitive $47,950 starting price.
Final Verdict
The Mercedes-Benz CLA Sedan is one of the most interesting compact luxury cars available because it gives buyers a genuine choice: efficient hybrid ownership or a long-range electric vehicle.
The CLA 250+ Electric is the standout model. Its 374-mile EPA range, 320-kW charging capability, and sub-$50,000 starting price give it a strong advantage over many luxury EV rivals.
The CLA 220 Hybrid remains useful for buyers who cannot charge regularly, while the CLA 350 4MATIC gives the range a much stronger performance option. The main compromise is practicality: rear-seat space and electric-model cargo capacity are limited. For buyers who can live with that, the CLA is a strong new entry point into Mercedes-Benz ownership.