Mercedes CLA 250+

Overview

The 2025 Mercedes CLA 250+ is shaping up to be a seriously slick electric "baby Benz," slotting into the premium compact saloon market. With an estimated price tag of around €56,000 new in Europe, this rear-wheel-drive stunner promises a fantastic blend of style and substance. Key highlights for the 250+ trim include its impressive long-distance cruising ability thanks to a hefty battery, rapid 800-volt charging architecture, and that unmistakable Mercedes class. It's gunning for those who want eco-chic without skimping on badge appeal or cutting-edge tech.

What's New for 2025?

This isn't just a nip-and-tuck; the 2025 CLA 250+ is an all-new electric dream built on Mercedes' fresh MMA platform. It marks a bold leap into next-gen EV tech for the brand’s compact offerings. Expect a completely revamped design language, drawing heavily from the stunning Concept CLA. Inside, the big news is the potential for a dazzling new MBUX interface, possibly spanning the dash with a "Superscreen" vibe. The powertrain is, of course, brand new, promising benchmark efficiency and that smooth electric punch.

Design & Exterior

The CLA 250+ is a proper head-turner, rocking Mercedes’ latest design evolution. Think "shark nose" front end, a super sleek, coupe-like roofline that flows beautifully, and intricate LED lighting with a cool star motif. It’s got that mini-CLS swagger! Dimension-wise, it measures 4723 mm in length, 1855 mm in width (excluding mirrors), and stands 1468 mm tall, giving it a planted, athletic stance. The 250+ trim will likely sport some distinctive alloy wheels to complete its premium, sporty look.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the CLA 250+, and you're greeted by a cabin that screams modern luxury, with those signature turbine-style air vents and high-quality materials. Passenger space for its five seats should be decent for a compact saloon, though that swoopy roof might pinch rear headroom slightly. For your bits and bobs, there's a useful 405-litre boot and a nifty 101-litre frunk! Tech-wise, expect the latest MBUX infotainment system, likely with a massive central display and crisp digital driver’s screen, plus standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless connectivity.

Performance & Driving Experience

The CLA 250+ isn't just about looks; it’s got the go to match! Its single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) sends a healthy 200 kW and 335 Nm of torque to the rear wheels, meaning it zaps from 0 to 100 km/h in a brisk 6.7 seconds. Top speed is a respectable 210 km/h. Being rear-wheel drive, expect an engaging and balanced driving experience, blending typical Mercedes refinement with a dash of fun. Multiple regenerative braking modes will allow for efficient one-pedal driving possibilities.

Range, Battery & Charging

This is where the CLA 250+ properly shines. It packs an 85 kWh (usable) battery, delivering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range estimate of a massive 652 km! Efficiency is rated at an impressive 7.67 km/kWh. Juicing up is a breeze with its 800-volt architecture; standard AC charging is 11 kW for an overnight top-up. For rapid boosts, it can guzzle electrons at up to 320 kW on a DC fast charger via its CCS Type 2 port, potentially adding hundreds of kilometres in minutes. Bidirectional charging (V2L) is also anticipated.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While official Euro NCAP ratings are pending for this "Announced" model, expect Mercedes to be targeting a full five stars. The CLA 250+ will come loaded with safety kit. Standard features should include essentials like autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and attention assist. Buyers will likely be able to spec even more advanced tech from optional packages, such as sophisticated adaptive cruise control with stop & go, active blind-spot monitoring, and a comprehensive 360-degree camera system for tight parking manoeuvres.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Mercedes typically offers a comprehensive warranty package in Europe. Expect the CLA 250+ to come with a standard vehicle warranty of at least 2 years with unlimited kilometres, or potentially longer depending on the market. The crucial high-voltage battery should be covered for 8 years or around 160,000 km, with a guarantee against excessive degradation. As an EV, maintenance should be simpler and potentially cheaper than its petrol siblings, though specific complimentary service packages will vary by region. Reliability for this new MMA platform is yet to be proven in the real world.