Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ Electric 2026 Review: Range, Tech and Real-World Performance

What Is the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+?

The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ is Mercedes' first all-electric compact saloon and their most efficient production model. Similar in footprint to an Audi A3 but with a longer wheelbase, shorter overhangs and a distinctive low roofline, it achieves a drag coefficient from 0.20. At the time of Vicki's review, Mercedes had also confirmed that all-wheel-drive, hybrid and Shooting Brake versions would follow.

The CLA represents a significant platform shift for Mercedes. Rear-wheel drive returns to Mercedes' compact saloon segment, underpinning a more balanced, driver-focused character than the front-drive architecture of the previous generation. The 800-volt electrical architecture enables industry-leading charging speeds, with a 10-minute stop at a 320kW charger adding around 200 miles of range.

What makes the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ special:

• Up to 483 miles WLTP range from an 85kWh battery, the longest range of any compact electric saloon in its class at the time of Vicki's review
• 800-volt architecture with up to 320kW DC charging, adding 200 miles in 10 minutes and reaching 10-80% in 22 minutes
• Rare two-speed transmission, optimising acceleration in first gear and motorway efficiency in second
• Drag coefficient from 0.20, one of the lowest of any production car
• MBUX Superscreen with a 10.25-inch driver display, 14-inch central touchscreen and 14-inch passenger display, plus a ChatGPT-integrated voice assistant and over-the-air updates
• Rear-wheel drive layout returning traditional Mercedes balance and character to the compact segment
• 405-litre boot plus 101-litre frunk and 1,500kg (braked) towing capacity

What Does the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ Look Like?

The CLA's design achieves something genuinely rare: a shape built around aerodynamic efficiency that is also striking to look at. A drag coefficient as low as 0.20 comes from the low, sweeping roofline, flush door handles that extend on approach, active aerodynamic shutters behind the front panel and carefully managed underbody airflow. Mercedes' traditional grille has been replaced by a sealed black panel housing the lighting elements, acknowledging that an electric car has no need for cooling air at the front.

At the front, slim LED headlights create a distinctive signature. The profile is defined by a longer wheelbase than the compact footprint suggests, creating more interior space without adding visual bulk. The flush door handles and slim mirrors contribute directly to the aerodynamic figure. At the rear, a full-width LED light bar gives the CLA an unmistakable identity in traffic, with a hidden rear wiper integrated beneath the bootlid spoiler to preserve the clean silhouette.

How Does the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ Drive?

Performance and Power Delivery

The rear-mounted motor produces 272hp and 335Nm of torque, delivered through a rare two-speed transmission. First gear handles acceleration from rest; second gear optimises motorway cruising efficiency and top speed. Unlike the Porsche Taycan's noticeable transmission changes, the CLA shifts completely imperceptibly. The 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds reflects a car calibrated for composed, efficient progression.

Handling and Rear-Wheel Drive Character

The rear-wheel drive layout is the most significant dynamic change from the previous CLA generation. Traditional Mercedes balance returns, with natural weight distribution through corners and confidence-inspiring responses. Vicki finds the return of rear-wheel drive brings back the character of Mercedes' earlier compact models, with the CLA prioritising refinement and composure.

Regenerative Braking

Three regenerative braking modes are available: strong, intelligent and off. The intelligent mode uses navigation data and radar to adjust regeneration automatically, anticipating junctions and traffic ahead. Vicki finds this the most effective setting in everyday use.

Range and Charging

The 483-mile WLTP figure applies to the standard specification; 19-inch wheels reduce this to 462 miles. The 800-volt architecture enables 320kW DC charging, adding around 200 miles in 10 minutes and reaching 10-80% charge in 22 minutes. Home charging at 7kW costs around £6 for a full charge.

Early CLA 250+ models without the optional 400V charging system can only DC rapid-charge at compatible 800V chargers. Newer cars can be specced with an £850 400V DC charging option, allowing them to use 400V rapid chargers at up to 100kW. The CLA can use compatible rapid chargers across networks including IONITY and GRIDSERVE, as well as Tesla Supercharger locations that are open to other EVs.

Is the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ Practical?

Boot and Storage:

The CLA offers 405 litres of boot space with a wide opening and low load lip. A 101-litre frunk under the bonnet provides covered storage for charging cables. Towing capacity of 1,500kg (braked) is competitive for a compact electric saloon, sufficient for a small caravan or trailer.

Rear Seats:

Rear seat space suits three children or two adults. The longer wheelbase creates generous legroom, though headroom is reduced by the low roofline. According to Vicki, the exterior profile requires a compromise on rear headroom.

Keyless Entry:

Keyless Go is standard. Holding the lock button simultaneously closes all windows and the panoramic roof, a practical detail for owners who frequently park in changing weather.

What Is the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ Interior Like?

MBUX Superscreen:

The MBUX Superscreen combines a 10.25-inch driver display with a 14-inch central touchscreen and a 14-inch passenger entertainment display. Google Maps integration provides real-time navigation. The interface is responsive with physical shortcut buttons below the central screen for the most frequently used functions.

AI Integration:

The Hey Mercedes voice assistant incorporates ChatGPT, making it useful for complex queries, email summaries while driving and information requests beyond standard voice commands. Over-the-air updates extend to driver assistance systems, meaning the car improves after purchase in ways that go beyond most current production vehicles.

Ambient Lighting:

The 64-colour ambient lighting system allows drivers to customise the cabin atmosphere, with a wide range of colours and lighting combinations available.

Climate Controls:

Climate control adjustments are handled through the touchscreen. Voice commands via Hey Mercedes work well as an alternative, and the panoramic glass roof is standard across the range.

Materials:

Soft-touch surfaces dominate the dashboard, creating a genuinely premium feel. Mixed materials and considered surfacing deliver quality consistent with the Mercedes positioning.

What Wheels and Tyres Does the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ Have?

The CLA 250+ rolls on 19-inch alloy wheels as standard. The wheel size balances aerodynamic efficiency and ride quality, with the drag coefficient partly dependent on the tyre profile.

The tested car is fitted with Bridgestone Turanza 6 Enliten tyres. According to Bridgestone, the Turanza 6 Enliten uses low rolling resistance compounds specifically developed to maximise electric vehicle range without compromising grip. The Enliten designation indicates a lighter construction, reducing weight by up to 2kg per tyre, contributing directly to the CLA's efficiency. Bridgestone states the tyre delivers strong performance in both dry and wet conditions.

The Bridgestone Turanza 6 Enliten has received 4.7 out of 5 stars from drivers on DriverReviews.

Tyre options:

• Bridgestone Turanza 6 Enliten
• Michelin e.Primacy 2

How Does the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ Compare to Rivals?

Mercedes CLA 250+ vs Polestar 2

The Polestar 2 starts from £45,210 and offers Scandinavian minimalism with strong performance and sustainability credentials. It suits buyers who prioritise design purity and a Google-native software experience. The CLA leads on range, AI integration depth and the unique two-speed transmission.

Mercedes CLA 250+ vs BMW i4

The BMW i4 starts from £56,798 and delivers more sporting dynamics and traditional BMW rear-wheel drive character with strong Gran Coupé proportions. It suits drivers who prioritise handling engagement. The CLA leads on range and charging speed; the i4 appeals to drivers who want more involvement.

Mercedes CLA 250+ vs Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 starts from £37,990 and offers the most developed charging network in the UK alongside the longest autonomous driving development. It suits buyers for whom the Supercharger network and over-the-air software development are the priority. The CLA offers significantly longer range, more traditional premium materials and Mercedes' established dealer network.

Is the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ Good Value?

The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ is good value for buyers who want class-leading range with Mercedes' latest technology. At £45,600 it delivers 483 miles WLTP, 320kW DC charging and a genuinely useful AI integration package that competitors either charge extra for or do not offer. The standard panoramic glass roof saves £1,000-£1,500 compared to adding it as an option on rivals. Home charging at around £6 for a full charge makes running costs significantly lower than an equivalent petrol model.

The case for the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+:

• 483 miles WLTP range, the longest of any compact electric saloon in its class at the time of Vicki's review
• 320kW DC charging, 200 miles added in 10 minutes, 10-80% in 22 minutes
• Rare two-speed transmission designed to improve both acceleration and motorway efficiency
• ChatGPT-integrated voice assistant and OTA updates extending to driver assistance systems
• 1,500kg (braked) towing capacity, competitive for a compact electric saloon
• Rear-wheel drive layout returning traditional Mercedes character to the compact segment

Before you buy:

• Early CLA 250+ models without the optional 400V charging system can only DC rapid-charge at compatible 800V chargers. Newer cars can be specced with an £850 400V DC charging option, allowing them to use 400V rapid chargers at up to 100kW
• Rear headroom is reduced by the low roofline
• Climate controls require touchscreen interaction with no dedicated physical buttons