Mercedes Teases Next-Generation CLA-Class

The new generation Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class will arrive next year, and Mercedes has revealed a sneak peek.

Against the backdrop of the Hyères Festival in France over the weekend, Mercedes presented a lightly camouflaged prototype of a new compact sedan that will offer both electric and hybrid vehicles.

Mercedes also teased the design with the Concept CLA-Class presented at the 2023 Munich Motor Show, and the prototype has been tested on public roads for over a year. Mercedes has confirmed that the debut will take place in 2025 and will appear in the U.S. as a 2026 model.

Details from last year's CLA-Class Concept that are expected to make it to production include the Mercedes star logo pattern on the taillights, a dash consisting of a single wide panel that integrates the digital meter cluster and screen for the infotainment hub, as well as circular air conditioning system, as well as circular vents for the air conditioning system.

The new CLA-Class is just one member of Mercedes' next-generation small car lineup, which includes new versions of the GLA-Class, GLB-Class, and CLA-Class Shooting Brake. The current A-Class hatchback and B-Class minivan will be the last of their kind.

Underpinning this series is a new modular platform known as MMA. This platform is designed primarily for electric powertrains, but is also compatible with gas engines in hybrid configurations. The platform will also support the planned high-performance electric powertrain for the AMG version of the new compact range.

The EV based on the MMA platform is expected to have a range of about 300 miles, with an 800-volt electrical system capable of adding more than 100 miles within 15 minutes when using a DC fast charger.