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July 30, 2026
The new Mercedes-Benz CLA welcomes its first all-electric BEV model.
Mercedes-Benz CLA with EQ Technology
Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake with EQ Technology
Mercedes-Benz Japan has announced the CLA's first BEV models, the "CLA with EQ Technology" and "CLA Shooting Brake with EQ Technology," and has begun accepting orders. Additionally, a special "Launch Edition" model, commemorating the arrival of both vehicles, is scheduled to be introduced from September onwards.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
Powertrain, Platform, and Digital Experience All Renewed
The CLA debuted in 2013 as a four-door coupe model. It has now undergone a full model change for the first time in approximately seven years, entering its third generation with the addition of a BEV variant.
The new model features a complete overhaul of its powertrain, transmission, platform, suspension, and even its digital experience.
The BEV model is distinguished by its exterior design, featuring an A-shaped grille, a signature Mercedes-Benz element, adorned with a star pattern created by 142 LEDs, crafting an expressive face.
The headlights and rear combination lamps incorporate a light signature inspired by the three-pointed star, while the vehicle rides on newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels. Optional 19-inch AMG alloy wheels are also available.
The interior adopts a minimalist design that highlights digital elements, inspired by "Japanese gardens." The MBUX Superscreen spanning the entire width of the dashboard, the three-dimensionally sculpted door center panels, and the center console extending forward all feature a floating design, creating a light and modern ambiance.
The panoramic roof is standard on all models. Featuring laminated glass that blocks heat rays, an infrared film on the exterior, and Low-E coating on the interior, it reduces the impact of solar radiation and heat while bringing a sense of openness and brightness into the cabin.
Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with a front trunk, a feature unique to BEVs. This marks its return after approximately 90 years, since the "Mercedes-Benz 130" in the 1930s.
The platform has been renewed to a new generation architecture that prioritizes BEVs while also accommodating efficient internal combustion engine models. A permanent magnet synchronous motor with an output of 200 kW is installed at the rear, enhancing traction and stable driving performance. Mercedes-Benz claims this also improves efficiency from the battery to the wheels during long-distance travel.
Furthermore, a two-speed EV transmission is employed on the rear axle. The first gear contributes to ease of handling during initial acceleration and city driving, as well as powerful acceleration, while the second gear enhances efficiency and comfort during high-speed driving.
The lithium battery offered comes in two capacities depending on the grade: 58 kWh and 85.5 kWh. Charging supports AC normal charging and DC rapid charging (CHAdeMO standard). An external power supply function, useful during disasters or outdoor activities, is also included.
The vehicle also features a multi-source heat pump, a first for Mercedes-Benz. This employs a direct air-based (air-side) structure that bypasses conventional water circuits, efficiently utilizing three energy sources simultaneously: waste heat from the electric powertrain, battery heat, and outside air.
A new one-box brake system is also installed, enabling almost all everyday deceleration processes to be handled by regenerative braking alone. Combined with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.21, the "CLA 250+ with EQ Technology" with its 85.5 kWh battery achieves a maximum range of 771 km, while the "CLA 200 with EQ Technology" with its 58 kWh battery records a maximum range of 525 km.
The "MB.OS" operating system, developed in-house by Mercedes-Benz, comprehensively controls the infotainment, driver assistance, body & comfort, and drive & charging domains.
The computer responsible for autonomous driving and driver assistance boasts a processing capability of up to 254 trillion operations per second, providing the high computational power needed to support these functions. Furthermore, key vehicle software, including driver assistance functions, can be continuously updated over-the-air (OTA).
The infotainment system features the fourth generation of MBUX, which supports information retrieval based on searches from ChatGPT and Microsoft Bing. In conjunction with Google Gemini, it provides users with detailed information about navigation and points of interest through voice commands.
The new MBUX Virtual Assistant, which integrates multiple AI into a single system, is equipped with short-term memory to maintain conversational context, enabling intuitive operation through natural dialogue.
Pricing starts at 6.68 million yen for the "CLA 200 with EQ Technology" and 7.75 million yen for the "CLA 250+ with EQ Technology" with its larger battery capacity. For the Shooting Brake models, the "CLA 200 Shooting Brake with EQ Technology" is priced at 6.91 million yen, and the "CLA 250+ Shooting Brake with EQ Technology" at 7.98 million yen.
Additionally, a Clean Energy Vehicle Introduction Promotion Subsidy of 980,000 yen may be applicable upon purchase.
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Learn More About the Mercedes-Benz CLA with EQ Technology
Q. What design philosophy and platform underpin the development of the new CLA?
The design of the CLA is based on the core philosophy of "Sensual Purity," characterized by an exterior design that, while having a simple form with significantly reduced lines and edges, conveys both fluidity and strength. The interior design combines sophistication with a youthful appeal. The newly adopted "Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA)" platform aims to provide consistent Mercedes-Benz safety, comfort, and quality while expanding the choices for body styles and powertrains.
The design of the CLA is based on the core philosophy of "Sensual Purity," characterized by an exterior design that, while having a simple form with significantly reduced lines and edges, conveys both fluidity and strength. The interior design combines sophistication with a youthful appeal. The newly adopted "Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA)" platform aims to provide consistent Mercedes-Benz safety, comfort, and quality while expanding the choices for body styles and powertrains.
Q. What evaluations has the new CLA received from third-party organizations?
The new CLA has been awarded "Car of the Year 2026" through a vote by European automotive journalists. This marks the second time in history Mercedes-Benz has received this award, and the first time in 52 years since 1974. Furthermore, it achieved the highest rating of 5 stars from Euro NCAP and was selected as the "Best Performer" among all brands and models tested in 2025. It has also received excellent ratings in the areas of occupant protection, child occupant protection, vulnerable road user protection, and safety assist.
The new CLA has been awarded "Car of the Year 2026" through a vote by European automotive journalists. This marks the second time in history Mercedes-Benz has received this award, and the first time in 52 years since 1974. Furthermore, it achieved the highest rating of 5 stars from Euro NCAP and was selected as the "Best Performer" among all brands and models tested in 2025. It has also received excellent ratings in the areas of occupant protection, child occupant protection, vulnerable road user protection, and safety assist.
Q. How long does charging take? Are there any charging services available?
For DC rapid charging (CHAdeMO standard, 150 kW type), tests conducted at our in-house rapid charging stations show that the "CLA 250+ with EQ Technology" takes 46 minutes for charging (10% to 80%), and the "CLA 200 Shooting Brake with EQ Technology" takes 34 minutes. Additionally, the public charging service "MB.CHARGE Public" is available. With the dedicated charging card provided upon vehicle delivery, users can access approximately 27,100 affiliated charging stations nationwide. For the first year after application, monthly basic fees and charging fees are waived.
For DC rapid charging (CHAdeMO standard, 150 kW type), tests conducted at our in-house rapid charging stations show that the "CLA 250+ with EQ Technology" takes 46 minutes for charging (10% to 80%), and the "CLA 200 Shooting Brake with EQ Technology" takes 34 minutes. Additionally, the public charging service "MB.CHARGE Public" is available. With the dedicated charging card provided upon vehicle delivery, users can access approximately 27,100 affiliated charging stations nationwide. For the first year after application, monthly basic fees and charging fees are waived.