Mercedes opens orders for CLA 200

At the presentation, Mercedes particularly highlighted the maximum range of the new CLA with EQ technology. In fact, the 792 WLTP kilometres of the preliminary top-range version, the CLA 250+, are genuinely impressive and set a new benchmark in the compact segment. However, with a list price starting at €55,859, it’s far from a bargain.

Now the German manufacturer is following up with the already announced base version, the CLA 200, which normally starts at €49,421 and comes in roughly €6,000 cheaper than the CLA 250+. At present, Mercedes is offering a promotional discount that lowers the price temporarily to €46,950. While the higher-end versions of the four-door coupé use an NMC battery, the entry-level variant relies on a more cost-effective LFP battery pack.

Faster charging despite lower charging power

This battery type brings advantages in terms of durability and safety. It also does without cobalt, nickel, and manganese, and can withstand more fast-charging cycles. The net capacity of the energy storage unit is 58 kWh, providing a practical WLTP range of up to 541 kilometres.

The maximum charging power stands at 200 kW. This allows the state of charge to increase from 10 to 80 per cent within 20 minutes. Although the peak charging rate of the higher-spec versions reaches 320 kW, the process takes two minutes longer for them. The 27 kWh difference in battery capacity becomes noticeable here. One of the key strengths of the electric CLA is its low energy consumption. With 12.3 kWh/100 km, the new CLA 200 also proves to be particularly efficient.

In terms of performance, buyers of the new entry-level model will have to accept minor compromises. The rear-wheel-drive setup delivers 165 kW instead of the 220 kW found in the CLA 250+. Nevertheless, the performance figures remain respectable. The sprint from zero to 100 kph takes 7.5 seconds when required, while top speed is limited to 210 kph. In the CLA 250+, the sprint to the standard country road speed is completed in 6.7 seconds, with the limiter also kicking in at 210 kph.

At the top of the line-up sits the dual-motor CLA 350 4MATIC, producing 260 kW. This version offers 770 kilometres of range and accelerates from a standstill to 100 kph in 4.9 seconds. It is priced from €60,381, or temporarily available for €57,361. Apparently, Mercedes plans to introduce a fourth variant at a later date, likely bearing the name CLA 250. Rumours suggest it will offer around 700 kilometres of range and 200 kW of power.

mercedes-benz.de (configurator), ecomento.de, insideevs.de (all in German)

This article was first published by Elias Holdenried for electrive’s German edition.