The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLA has just gone on sale in Ireland, and is the first of 42 new models and variants from the brand set to come to market here between now and 2028.
Recently voted European car of the year 2026, the new Mercedes-Benz CLA now comes in fully-electric versions, and in a range of long distance, 48-volt mild hybrid drivetrain models with a 1.5-litre petrol powered engine, plus the availability within the range of 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
The all-electric CLA arrives in four versions, starting from €53,425 for the CLA 200; CLA 250 from €60,535; CLA 250+ from €63,525; and CLA 350 4MATIC from €68,295, all after SEAI grants.
Mercedes-Benz quotes a claimed range of up to 793km thanks to its new 800-volt electric architecture, which will underpin its future models.
The CLA 250+ and CLA 350 4MATIC have DC charging speeds of up to 320kW, meaning a 325km top-up could take less than 10 minutes. Available battery sizes range from 58kWh, 71kWh and 85kWh.
Priced from €57,960 rising to €65,455, five versions make up the 1.5-litres petrol CLA range: CLA 180, CLA 200, and CLA 220 – with 4MATIC all-wheel drive available on selected models.
Powered by a 1.3kWh battery, each version gets the same 22kW electric motor. Mild Hybrid versions have the supporting power of an economical 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with power outputs starting at 156hp (CLA 180 ) rising to 211hp (CLA 220 ). In 4MATIC mode, quoted fuel consumption figures for the CLA 180 are as low as 4.9l/100km.
Arriving here soon will be both petrol and all-electric CLA Shooting Brake estate version in the same model variants priced from €59,540 for the hybrid and €65,010 for the electric.
AMG line trims will also be available across the new CLA range.
Carried on 17- to 19-inch wheels depending on model, the dimensions of the new CLA are all-round larger than before: 4,723mm long (an increase of +35mm ), 1,855mm wide (+25mm ), 1,468mm high (+29mm ), and a 2,790mm wheelbase (+61mm ) combine to give it greater front and rear headroom and rear seat knee space.
Boot space in saloon guise is 405-litres, rising to 550-litres in the estate. Electric models benefit from an additional 101-litres of load space under the bonnet.
Noticeable exterior styling includes a ‘shark-nose’ front and air-piercing silhouette, helped by frameless doors with flush-fitting handles.
At the centre of the dashboard is an upgraded 10.25-inch MBUX infotainment system, with the option to add a 14-inch dedicated passenger display.
Other features include USB device-charging points, wireless charging pad, and optional electrically operated and adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, and heated seats with four-way lumbar support.
Front and rear seating offers generous space, with ample headroom and comfortable legroom for passengers with ISOFIX mountings on both outer rear seats.
Besides additional structural protection for the battery, safety features (supported by extensive crash testing ) include a full suite of airbags including one positioned between driver and front passenger to protect against head impact.
