STUTTGART: The new Mercedes-Benz CLA hybrid with 48-volt technology has opened for orders in Europe.
The CLA with a new, electrified 1.5-litre turbocharged, inline four-cylinder engine is offered in three power levels and, front- or all-wheel drive.
The five variants are CLA 180, 200, 200 4Matic, 220 and 220 4Matic.
System output and torque are 156hp/280Nm (CLA 180), 184hp/330Nm (CLA 200 and 200 4Matic), and 211hp/380Nm (CLA 220 and 220 4Matic).
With a consumption of around five litres per 100km and below, the CLA 180 is the most efficient Mercedes‑Benz vehicle with an internal combustion engine in this segment.
The CLA hybrid models can drive fully on electric power as well as coast and recuperate energy.
Highlights include the new electrified eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with integrated electric motor (8F-eDCT), and new 48-volt battery with lithium-ion technology and an energy content of up to 1.3kWh.
At urban speeds and when less than 22kW is needed, typically gentle town driving, the hybrid models can drive using electric power alone.
So-called “electric sailing”, ie efficient coasting with a decoupled drivetrain, is possible up to a speed of around 100kph.
A special feature of the motor is its ability to recuperate in all eight gears, recovering up to 25kW of energy.
Furthermore, the combustion engine can be started entirely by the electric motor and the disconnect clutch, eliminating the need for a conventional pinion starter.
Meanwhile, the fourth generation of the MBUX infotainment system integrates artificial intelligence (AI) from both Microsoft and Google.
The MBUX Virtual Assistant uses the so-called “multi-agent approach”, integrating AI tools from both companies.
In the new CLA, the navigation experience is based on Google Maps.
Developed in partnership by Google and Mercedes‑Benz, the navigation solution is one of the first systems to integrate Google Cloud’s new Automotive AI Agent for in-vehicle use with Google Maps.
The MBUX Superscreen extends across the entire interior width.
Behind a large glass surface are the 10.25-inch driver display, the 14-inch central display, and the 14-inch front passenger display.
The extensive infotainment offering for the front passenger includes over 40 apps, video streaming and direct access to Disney+.
All CLA models come with a large, one-piece fixed glass panoramic roof, and the Distance Assist Distronic.
Also, MB.Drive Assist is available as an option from market launch in Europe.
It offers significantly more comfort by complementing Distance Assist Distronic with Steering Assist, making it an SAE Level 2 driving assistance system.
New in the CLA is Lane Change Assist, which facilitates lane changes with a simple click of the indicator stalk.
