From RM275k, Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ launched in Malaysia – 800V, 792km range

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has launched the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ Electric in a single AMG Line variant, priced at RM 274,888. Available as a fully-imported (CBU) model from Germany, the third-generation (C174) Mercedes-Benz CLA is designed as a four-door coupé and is the first model to be built on the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) platform, an electric-first platform designed for battery-electric and hybrid vehicles.

In terms of dimensions, the CLA 250+ measures 4,723 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, and 1,468 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,790 mm. The driver and front passenger have an additional 11 mm of legroom. Due to the higher roofline and panoramic roof, headroom for the first and second rows has increased by 16 mm and 28 mm, respectively.

A first for a Mercedes-Benz EV, the CLA 250+ features a 101-litre front boot, accompanied by a rear boot with a capacity of just 405 litres, which is 55 litres smaller than that of the previous CLA.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ was developed around the ‘Sensual Purity’ design philosophy. The long wheelbase, short overhangs, and distinctive GT-style rear embody an athletic character. The front end features a shark-nose design, with the grille decorated with 142 illuminated stars, accompanied by an illuminated Mercedes-Benz logo in the centre. The MULTIBEAM LED headlights feature daytime running lights shaped like the Mercedes-Benz star and are equipped with High Beam Assist.

At the side, frameless doors with chrome trim emphasise a sporty yet elegant design, while the retractable door handles sit flush with the body to optimise aerodynamics. At the rear, a full-width light bar connects the two star-shaped taillights. The rear diffuser is finished in high-gloss black, while the AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels measure 19 inches and are wrapped in 225/40 R19 tyres at the front and 255/35 R19 tyres at the rear, with Bridgestone Turanza Enliten tyres.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ features a two-speed transmission, with the electric motor situated at the rear axle, making it a rear-wheel-drive car. The electric motor produces a maximum power output of 272 PS and 335 Nm of maximum torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. The first gear has a short 11:1 ratio, making it efficient in urban traffic, while the second gear has a 5:1 ratio, designed for efficient power delivery at higher speeds. The top speed is achieved in second gear.

Built on an 800-volt architecture, the DC charging rate is up to 320 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 10%-80% in just 22 minutes. Meanwhile, the AC charging rate is 11 kW, allowing a 0%-100% charge in nine hours. According to Mercedes-Benz, up to 325 km of range can be added in just 10 minutes, with a WLTP driving range of up to 792 km.

Stepping inside, round air vents are situated on either side of the MBUX Superscreen, with the three screens standing almost upright as part of the dashboard. In front of the driver is a 10.25-inch digital instrument display, while the centre infotainment touchscreen and front passenger display are both 14 inches. The displayed model, however, does not feature the front passenger display.

The entire system runs on the new MB.OS operating system, which uses ChatGPT and Microsoft Bing for general queries, while Google Gemini handles navigation-related questions, with context retained when switching between the two. Navigation is powered by built-in Google Maps.

The cabin features AMG Line sportiness, with the AMG Line sports seats package featuring ARTICO man-made Nappa leather upholstery with MICROCUT microfibre. The floating centre console features two cupholders and a wireless charging cradle. There is also a panoramic glass roof with a heat-rejection coating, although there is no sunshade.

Safety-wise, the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ AMG Line comes equipped with the MB.DRIVE Standard suite of driver assistance systems, together with MB.DRIVE Parking Assist 360 and standard safety features, which include: