Mercedes-Benz India has confirmed the launch of the all-electric Mercedes-Benz CLA in April 2026. The CLA was previously offered with ICE powertrains before being phased out in 2020. The next-generation CLA will take over from the A-Class sedan and also succeed the EQA and EQB electric SUVs in the Indian lineup. In this article, let’s take a look at the top things to know about the upcoming CLA. Battery, range The specifications for the India-bound Mercedes-Benz CLA EV are yet to be disclosed. The global models are available in two variants – the CLA 250+ and the CLA 350, both powered by an 85kWh battery pack. The CLA 250+ uses a rear-mounted electric motor producing 268hp and 335Nm of torque, with a claimed WLTP range of up to 792km. The higher-spec CLA 350 features a dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive, generating a combined output of 349hp and 515Nm.
The new CLA features an 800-volt electrical architecture that supports DC fast charging at speeds of up to 320 kW. Mercedes-Benz claims this can add close to 300 km of driving range in around 10 minutes under ideal conditions.
Platform, dimensions The car is underpinned by Mercedes-Benz’s MMA architecture, a platform developed specifically for electric vehicles. The new CLA has also grown in size compared to its predecessor. It measures 4,723 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, and 1,468 mm in height, with a longer wheelbase of 2,790 mm. Practicality is enhanced with a 101-litre front storage compartment and a 405-litre boot.
Interior and features The Mercedes-Benz CLA EV features a minimalist, screen-focused cabin that prioritises technology and usability. The highlight of the cabin is a dual-screen layout consisting of a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. An optional front passenger display is also on offer globally; it remains to be seen whether this option will be offered in India.
The cabin features a three-spoke steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls, while a carbon-fibre finish on the centre console adds a sportier visual touch. Features include a panoramic sunroof, 64-colour ambient lighting, a 16-speaker Burmester sound system with Dolby Atmos, and heated, ventilated, powered front seats, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, connected car tech, latest MBUX with Ai integration and more. Safety features include eight airbags, a 360-degree camera with blind-spot monitoring, a tyre-pressure monitoring system, an electronic parking brake and ASAS. The EV has also scored a 5-star Euro NCAP rating.
Expected price, launch date The new Mercedes-Benz CLA is expected to be priced somewhere between 55-60 lakh (ex-showroom). While it does not have any direct rivals, the new CLA is expected to compete on pricing with electric models such as the BMW iX1, Volvo XC40 Recharge, Kia EV6 and the Tesla Model Y, along with other EVs positioned around the Rs 60 lakh mark.
