KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- This is the near-production version of the Concept CLA shown last year.
- The next-gen CLA will be built on the MMA platform with both ICE and EV possibilities.
- Set to replace the A-Class Limousine globally.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA used to be on sale here sometime ago, and it was quite popular, but then it got replaced by the A-Class Limousine. The car marker has now shown a camouflaged version that looks nearly production -ready.
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Next-Gen Mercedes-Benz CLA
The new CLA will be underpinned by an all-new MMA platform, which is primarily meant for electric vehicles, but Merc says it will also spawn a combustion-powered version as well, most likely in hybrid form. However, this comes at an interesting point for the car maker, who also said it is developing separate architectures for EV and ICE powertrains.
Also read: Mercedes-Benz To Continue Developing Separate ICE and EV Platforms
Given that an exhaust pipe cannot be seen here, this model is likely the fully-electric version of the new CLA. The Concept CLA shown last year was powered by a single electric motor, with a claimed range of 750km on a single charge. The specifications remain a mystery for now, but more announcements will follow soon enough.
The front grille panel from the Concept CLA is likely to be carried over, with smaller, animated stars scattered around, with the big three-pointed logo in the middle, almost like a futuristic rendition of some current Merc EV grilles.
The interiors of this car are also likely to be a toned-down version of fully touch-screen dashboard seen on the Concept CLA. The CLA is also likely to feature the new MB.OS operating system which will be available globally.
With a global debut set for 2025, Mercedes-Benz has not said anything about the new-gen CLA for India, but we will not be surprised if it ends up coming here by late-2025, or early 2026. The new CLA could then take the mantle from the A-Class Limousine, and also take on the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, which has also been updated recently.
Verdict
Mercedes-Benz is certainly working overtime, and the new-gen CLA is among the few newer small cars planned by the car maker globally. We won't be surprised if the new CLA is on the horizon for India after its global debut. With a combustion and an EV guise, it could cater the needs of both customers.
