A new generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class arrives next year, and Mercedes has given a sneak peek.
The automaker used the backdrop of the Festival d’Hyères held in France over the weekend to present a lightly camouflaged prototype for the new compact sedan which Mercedes will offer both as an electric vehicle and hybrid.
Mercedes also previewed the design with the Concept CLA-Class unveiled at the 2023 Munich auto show, and prototypes have been spotted testing on public roads for more than a year. Mercedes has confirmed the debut will take place in 2025. Expect it to arrive as a 2026 model in the U.S., though a late 2025 model year arrival is also possible.
Details from last year’s CLA-Class concept that are expected to make production include a Mercedes star logo pattern in the taillights, as well as a dash that consists of one wide panel integrating screens for the digital gauge cluster and infotainment hub, plus circular vents for the climate system.
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Teaser for next-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class due in 2025
The new CLA-Class is just one member of Mercedes’ next-generation small car range that will also include 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 the range is a new modular platform known as the MMA. Though designed primarily for electric powertrains, the platform supports gas engines in hybrid configuration. The platform will also support high-performance electric powertrains for planned AMG versions of the new compact range.
EVs based on the MMA platform are expected to have a range of around 300 miles, as well as an 800-volt electrical system that will enable well over 100 miles to be added in less than 15 minutes when using a DC fast charger.