Electric CLA's India Debut
The German luxury automaker is set to reintroduce the CLA to the Indian market, but in an entirely new, electric form. This marks the comeback of a popular
entry-level luxury sedan, which was previously discontinued in its internal combustion engine variants back in 2020. The anticipated launch date for this electric four-door coupe is April, with booking reservations slated to commence on March 10, 2026. This vehicle is a significant debut as it's the first model to be built upon Mercedes-Benz's innovative new Modular Architecture (MMA) platform. Customers will have a selection of exterior paint options, including Clear Blue, Cosmic Black, and Polar White, alongside exclusive Manufaktur finishes like Alpine Grey and Patagonia Red. While the global market sees two variants, the CLA 250+ and 350 4MATIC, India will exclusively receive the CLA 250+ variant. This specific model has a remarkable claimed driving range of 792 kilometers, as per the WLTP cycle, setting a new benchmark for electric sedans in its segment. This upcoming release signifies Mercedes-Benz's commitment to expanding its electric vehicle portfolio in India, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and sustainability.
Projected Pricing and Competition
Positioned as Mercedes-Benz's new entry-point into the electric vehicle landscape in India, the upcoming electric CLA is expected to carry a price tag ranging from Rs 55 lakh to Rs 65 lakh (ex-showroom). This strategic pricing places it directly in contention with several other notable electric vehicles already available in the Indian market. Competitors in this segment include the BMW i4, which is priced at Rs 72.50 lakh, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 starting at Rs 46 lakh, and the BYD Seal, which is available from Rs 41 lakh. Another key rival is the Kia EV6, with a price of Rs 60 lakh. This competitive pricing strategy aims to make the advanced technology and luxury associated with Mercedes-Benz more accessible to a broader audience of environmentally conscious consumers, while also challenging established players with its compelling offer.
Battery and Performance Specs
The CLA 250+ variant is engineered with an advanced 800-volt electrical architecture, housing a substantial 85kWh battery pack. This robust configuration is responsible for delivering an impressive WLTP-certified range of 792 kilometers on a single charge. Powering the sedan is a rear-mounted electric motor, capable of producing 268 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. This output allows the vehicle to achieve a brisk acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds. The electric drivetrain demonstrates remarkable efficiency, boasting a 93% efficiency rating and consuming approximately 12 kWh of energy for every 100 kilometers driven. For charging convenience, it features a two-speed transmission and supports DC fast charging up to 240 kW. This allows for a significant range boost, adding approximately 400 kilometers in just 20 minutes. Furthermore, the suspension system has been meticulously calibrated to suit the unique conditions of Indian roads, ensuring a comfortable and refined ride experience.
Advanced Interior Features
The Indian-specific version of the electric CLA 250+ is equipped with a state-of-the-art infotainment system. Central to this is a commanding 14-inch touchscreen that operates on the latest MB.OS, Mercedes-Benz's proprietary operating system. Complementing this is a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, providing drivers with all essential information at a glance. The vehicle's intelligent voice control system is enhanced with an AI-enabled MBUX Virtual Assistant, which integrates support for both ChatGPT and Google Gemini, offering advanced conversational capabilities. Navigation is further augmented by 3D Surround Navigation, providing clear and intuitive guidance. A striking visual element is the glass panel featuring LED-lit stars that beautifully synchronize with the ambient lighting, creating a sophisticated cabin atmosphere. Other noteworthy features include upholstery options inspired by AMG performance vehicles, the convenience of over-the-air (OTA) updates for seamless software improvements, wireless charging for compatible devices, and six USB-C fast-charge ports to keep all devices powered. The rear seats are split 40:20:40 for versatile cargo space, and the cabin is adorned with stylish turbine-style air vents. Additionally, a host of optional luxury upgrades are available to personalize the driving experience further.
