Mercedes-Benz appears to be preparing for the debut of the CLA with EQ technology in Malaysia. The move was subtly confirmed when Mercedes-Benz Malaysia quietly added the model to its website under the label “available soon”. In addition, the company has opened registration of interest for the first-ever fully electric CLA model.
However, there is not much information given beyond these in terms of the variants and the specifications that will be available for Malaysians. Nevertheless, here’s what the company has announced for the US market, which may give us some idea as to what may end up landing in Malaysia. There are two announced variants – the 250+ and the 350 4MATIC.
In terms of design, the EV sedan comes with sharply and uniquely designed headlights with star inlays. Furthermore, the large front grille now comes with an illuminated star pattern, and the full-width daytime running lights, designed to follow the curves of the front fascia, complete the aggressive stance of the sedan. At the rear, it has full-width tail lights which also feature the star inlays. Other features include the rear diffuser and seamless door handles.
Inside, the new CLA features the latest MBUX Superscreen, stretching across the entire width of the dashboard. This advanced display integrates a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14-inch infotainment and passenger display. Adding to the sense of openness, the CLA is equipped with an expansive panoramic roof.
This single, fixed glass panel extends seamlessly from the windshield frame to the rear, offering occupants a nearly unobstructed view of the sky. Crafted from heat-insulating laminated safety glass with infrared film and a Low-Emissivity (LowE) coating, the roof not only enhances the cabin’s airy feel but also helps regulate interior temperatures for greater comfort.
Now coming to the powertrain, the CLA 250+ comes with a rear-mounted permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM) that produces 272 PS and 335 Nm of torque, while the CLA 350 comes with an additional motor in the front producing a total output of 354 PS and 515 Nm of torque.
All of this power from both models is managed by a two-speed transmission system and allows the 250+ to complete the century sprint in 6.6 seconds, while the 350 takes 4.8 seconds. Both models have a top speed of 209 km/h (electronically limited).
Both models are built on the 800-volt electrical architecture, with both powered by an 85 kWh Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery, offering a WLTP range of 694 km to 792 km for the 250+, while the 350 has a WLTP range of 672 km to 771 km. With a 320 kW DC charger, the 250+ can replenish up to 325 km in 10 minutes, while the 350 can charge up to 315 km.
As of now, the only details revealed by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia via the aforementioned web page are the 800-volt system and the MBUX. It remains to be seen if the rest will carry over once the car gets localised. But with the model already listed on the brand’s official website, its local debut may be just around the corner.
(Source: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, Mercedes Benz CLA Press Release)
