Mercedes CLA Electric is not just another premium EV arriving in India. It is the German automaker’s most important product launch of 2026, a generational reset that challenges everything we assumed about range, charging speed, and in-car technology at the luxury entry level. Confirmed for an April 2026 debut by Mercedes-Benz India MD and CEO Santosh Iyer, the CLA Electric arrives carrying the weight of a European Car of the Year 2026 title and order books that have already exceeded company expectations globally.
For a market where range anxiety and fast-charging infrastructure remain real concerns, the CLA Electric’s numbers read like a direct rebuttal.
Why the Mercedes CLA Electric Matters Right Now
India’s luxury EV space has been waiting for a product that can genuinely challenge petrol-powered sedans on every front, not just environmental credentials. The Mercedes CLA Electric steps into that conversation with conviction. It replaces three outgoing nameplates in India simultaneously: the A-Class sedan, the EQA, and the EQB. That consolidation alone signals how seriously Mercedes-Benz is repositioning its entry-level lineup around pure electric mobility.
The CLA is also the first model in Mercedes-Benz’s new software-defined vehicle architecture, powered by the brand new MB.OS operating system. This is not a carryover platform fitted with batteries. Every engineering decision, from the floor-mounted 85 kWh NMC pack to the novel two-speed electric gearbox, was made with an EV-first philosophy.
The timing aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s 140th anniversary of automotive innovation, giving the India debut a ceremonial significance that goes beyond a product launch.
Design: Aerodynamics That Earn Their Keep
The third-generation CLA Electric is visually distinct and functionally purposeful. A blanked-off front grille finished in gloss black replaces the traditional radiator opening. Illuminated three-pointed star motifs animate the twin-pod LED headlights, connected by a slim full-width LED light strip. At the rear, a matching LED bar unifies the tail-lights for a seamless, contemporary look.
The coupe-inspired roofline flows into a sleek tail, and flush door handles sit level with the bodywork to reduce aerodynamic drag. Aerodynamic wheel options range from 17 to 19 inches, each designed to minimise turbulence. Black lower body cladding adds visual contrast while protecting the sill area.
Despite being larger than its predecessor (30 mm longer, 25 mm wider, and 25 mm taller), the CLA Electric’s frontal area was aggressively optimised. The result is an efficiency figure north of 9.0 km/kWh, which directly enables that remarkable 792 km WLTP figure from an 85 kWh battery.
Mercedes CLA Electric: Full Specification Table
| Specification | CLA 250+ (India Expected) | CLA 350 4Matic (Global) |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 85 kWh (NMC) | 85 kWh (NMC) |
| Architecture | 800V | 800V |
| Drivetrain | RWD (Rear Motor) | AWD (Dual Motor) |
| Power Output | 272 hp | 354 hp |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 515 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 6.7 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 210 km/h |
| WLTP Range | Up to 792 km | Up to 770 km |
| DC Fast Charging | Up to 320 kW | Up to 320 kW |
| Range in 10 Minutes | ~300 km | ~300 km |
| Transmission | 2-speed (rear axle) | 2-speed (rear) + 1-speed (front) |
| Regen Braking | Up to 200 kW | Up to 200 kW |
| Boot Space | 405 litres | 405 litres |
| Frunk | 101 litres | 101 litres |
| Euro NCAP Rating | 5-Star (2025) | 5-Star (2025) |
| Length / Width / Height | 4,750 / 1,870 / 1,440 mm | 4,750 / 1,870 / 1,440 mm |
The 792km Range: Why This Number Changes the Conversation
To understand why 792 km WLTP matters, consider the context. The Mercedes EQS 580, the brand’s flagship electric sedan, achieves 770 km WLTP from a substantially larger 118 kWh battery. The CLA Electric eclipses that with an 85 kWh pack, roughly 28% less energy storage.
That achievement comes from a combination of factors working in concert. The permanent magnet rear motor is a new generation unit: lighter, more compact, and with higher torque density than its predecessors. The two-speed gearbox, a first for a mass-market electric Mercedes, allows first gear to optimise efficiency and acceleration in city conditions while second gear manages high-speed cruising with minimal energy loss. When all-wheel drive is not required, the front motor on the 4Matic variant decouples completely, reducing friction losses by 90%.
The 800V architecture plays an equally critical role in charge speed. At a capable DC fast charger delivering up to 320 kW, the CLA Electric can recover over 300 km of range within 10 minutes. A full charge from near-empty can be completed in approximately 15 minutes under ideal conditions. For India’s evolving charging network, even conservative fast-charger outputs of 100-150 kW will deliver a meaningful top-up during a roadside chai stop.
Dimensions & Space: Practical Electric Sedan
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 4,750 mm |
| Width | 1,870 mm |
| Height | 1,440 mm |
| Boot Space | 405 litres |
| Frunk (Front Storage) | 101 litres |
| Alloy Wheel Size | 17-inch to 19-inch options |
The frunk is a welcome addition as a first for a modern Mercedes production car. It offers 101 litres of additional lockable storage, a genuinely useful feature for families managing airport runs or weekend travel.
Technology and Interior: MB.OS and the MBUX Superscreen
Step inside the Mercedes CLA Electric and the dashboard communicates immediately that this is a different kind of Mercedes. The optional MBUX Superscreen spans the entire width of the dashboard, integrating three discrete displays into a single flowing surface.
| Display | Size | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 10.25-inch | Driver information, speed, navigation |
| Central Infotainment Screen | 14.6-inch | Climate, media, Mercedes features |
| Passenger Entertainment Screen | 14-inch | Passenger navigation, media, apps |
The system runs on MB.OS, Mercedes-Benz’s new operating system that brings software-defined functionality to the car’s architecture. This includes AI-enhanced voice control integrated with ChatGPT-based assistance, real-time over-the-air update capability, Google Maps-powered navigation, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Additional interior appointments include powered and ventilated front sports seats, multi-zone climate control, a fixed panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting in multiple colour options, and a wireless charging pad.
Safety: 5-Star Euro NCAP, Level 2 ADAS
The Mercedes CLA Electric earned a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2025. For the India-spec model, the following safety systems are expected to carry over.
| Safety Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Airbags | 8 airbags (standard) |
| Camera System | 360-degree surround view |
| Driver Assistance | Level 2 ADAS suite |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Yes |
| Parking Brake | Electronic |
| Braking System | Fully brake-by-wire |
Expected Price and Positioning in India
Mercedes-Benz has not officially confirmed pricing for the India-spec CLA Electric, but all market indicators point to an ex-showroom price in the Rs 60-65 lakh bracket for the CLA 250+ variant. India is expected to receive only this rear-wheel-drive single-motor configuration initially, given its positioning as an entry-level EV replacement for the A-Class.
At that price, the Mercedes CLA Electric positions itself as a compelling alternative to the Tesla Model Y, Kia EV6, BYD Seal, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and Volvo C40 Recharge, while also targeting buyers considering premium ICE sedans like the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe and Audi A4.
The announcement is backed by the vehicle’s global momentum: the CLA won the European Car of the Year award in Brussels in January 2026, and international order volumes have significantly surpassed initial projections.
Quick Pros and Cons
Pros
- Class-leading 792 km WLTP range from a sensibly sized 85 kWh battery
- 800V architecture with 320 kW DC fast charging capability
- European Car of the Year 2026 winner
- Segment-first two-speed electric gearbox for efficiency and performance balance
- 5-star Euro NCAP 2025 safety rating
- MB.OS with AI-integrated voice control and full digital cockpit
- 101-litre frunk adds genuine everyday practicality
- Replaces three models, offering buyers a single focused upgrade path
Cons
- India likely to receive only the CLA 250+ initially, no AWD option at launch
- 320 kW charging advantage limited by India’s current DC infrastructure
- Real-world Indian range will be lower than WLTP figure (expect 550-650 km)
- No official price confirmed; likely to attract import duties given global supply timelines
- Fully digital controls may not suit all buyers accustomed to tactile switches
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will the Mercedes CLA Electric launch in India? Mercedes-Benz India has confirmed an April 2026 debut. The launch will be led by MD and CEO Santosh Iyer and coincides with the company’s 140th anniversary.
2. What is the expected price of the Mercedes CLA Electric in India? The CLA Electric is expected to be priced in the Rs 60-65 lakh (ex-showroom) range, though Mercedes-Benz has not officially announced final pricing ahead of the April debut.
3. Which variant will India receive? India is expected to get the CLA 250+ variant with a single rear-mounted motor, 272 hp, 335 Nm, and up to 792 km WLTP range. The AWD CLA 350 4Matic may not be offered at launch.
4. What is the real-world range of the Mercedes CLA Electric in Indian conditions? While the WLTP-certified range is 792 km, real-world driving in Indian conditions including highway speeds, AC usage, and traffic will likely deliver between 550 km and 650 km per full charge, which still represents outstanding range for the segment.
5. How fast does the Mercedes CLA Electric charge? The CLA Electric supports up to 320 kW DC fast charging via its 800V architecture. In practical terms, a 10-minute charge at a compatible station can restore approximately 300 km of range. At India’s current Tata Power and ChargeZone 60-150 kW stations, expect full charges in under 60 minutes.
6. What cars does the Mercedes CLA Electric replace in India? The CLA Electric replaces three outgoing Mercedes-Benz nameplates in India: the A-Class Limousine sedan, the EQA electric crossover, and the EQB electric SUV.
7. What awards has the Mercedes CLA Electric won? The Mercedes CLA Electric won the European Car of the Year 2026 award at the Brussels ceremony in January 2026, making it the most recognised new car in Europe this year.
8. Does the Mercedes CLA Electric have a frunk? Yes. In a first for a modern Mercedes production model, the CLA Electric offers a 101-litre lockable frunk in addition to 405 litres of boot space.
9. What operating system does the CLA Electric use? The CLA Electric runs on MB.OS, Mercedes-Benz’s new software-defined operating system. It powers the MBUX Superscreen, supports AI-integrated voice control via ChatGPT technology, and receives over-the-air updates.
10. How does the Mercedes CLA Electric compare with the Tesla Model Y in range? The CLA 250+ achieves up to 792 km WLTP versus the Tesla Model Y Long Range at approximately 600 km WLTP. The CLA’s efficiency of over 9.0 km/kWh from an 85 kWh battery is genuinely class-leading.
Motors77 Verdict
The Mercedes CLA Electric is the kind of product that does not arrive often. It does not ask Indian luxury EV buyers to make compromises for the sake of choosing electric. The 792 km WLTP range from an 85 kWh battery is an engineering accomplishment that outpaces even Mercedes’ own flagship EQS. The 800V architecture and 320 kW charging support are future-ready. The 5-star Euro NCAP rating, Level 2 ADAS suite, and the European Car of the Year 2026 crown reinforce that this is not a paper exercise in range claims.
For the Indian buyer, the CLA Electric arrives at a compelling price point of approximately Rs 60-65 lakh and consolidates what were previously three separate Mercedes entry-level offerings into one definitive package. The real-world range, likely 550-650 km in Indian conditions, comfortably covers intercity travel between Pune, Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru on a single charge.
The caveats are real: India’s DC fast-charging network will limit the 320 kW charging advantage for now, the AWD variant may not arrive immediately, and post-import-duty pricing could shift the final ex-showroom figure. But none of that changes the fact that the Mercedes CLA Electric represents the clearest signal yet that the premium electric sedan has arrived in India, ready to be taken seriously.
Motors77 Rating: 4.5 / 5 — Recommended for buyers who want a future-proof luxury electric sedan without compromising on range, technology, or the three-pointed star on the bonnet.
Disclaimer: All specifications mentioned are for the international-spec Mercedes CLA Electric. India-specific configurations and final pricing will be confirmed at the April 2026 launch event. Motors77 maintains editorial independence and has no commercial relationship with Mercedes-Benz India.
