All-new Mercedes-Benz CLA launching soon in Malaysia: Electric CLA250+ packs 792km range

The Malaysian electric vehicle landscape is about to experience a massive shift. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has dropped teasers for the third-generation, all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA. Marking a fresh chapter for the entry-level executive sedan, the next-gen CLA (codenamed C174) transitions into a high-tech electric machine built on the brand-new Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA).

Leading the charge in Malaysia is the Mercedes-Benz CLA250+ with EQ Technology, an all-electric fastback offering a staggering WLTP-rated range of up to 792 km on a single charge.

Game-Changing 792km Range & Two-Speed Efficiency

Range anxiety becomes a relic of the past with the CLA250+. Under the floor sits an 85 kWh (usable) Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery pack paired with a rear-mounted electric motor delivering 268 hp (200 kW) and 335 Nm of torque. The rear-wheel-drive luxury fastback accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 6.7 seconds, reaching a top speed of 210 km/h.

What makes the CLA250+ truly exceptional is its benchmark-setting energy efficiency consuming as low as 12.2 kWh per 100 km. This hyper-efficiency is driven by two critical engineering choices:

• Aero-Optimized Silhouette: A ultra-slick drag coefficient of just Cd 0.21 reduces wind resistance dramatically at highway speeds.

• Two-Speed Rear Transmission: A rare feature in standard electric vehicles, the two-speed gearbox optimizes launch acceleration and low-speed torque in 1st gear, then shifts into 2nd gear for efficient high-speed cruising at lower motor RPMs.

With up to 792 km of WLTP range, driving from Kuala Lumpur to Penang and back on a single charge is no longer a distant dream—it is a reality.

800V Architecture: 325km of Range in 10 Minutes

The new CLA is the first compact series-production Mercedes-Benz to sport an 800-volt electrical architecture. This platform upgrade unlocks lightning-fast DC fast charging at speeds up to 320 kW.

Plugging into a compatible high-power DC charger adds up to 325 km of range in just 10 minutes, while a 10% to 80% charge takes roughly 22 minutes. For home and overnight charging, the CLA supports 11 kW AC charging.

Stunning Design Meets Next-Gen Tech

Visually, the new CLA retains its iconic four-door coupé profile while making a futuristic statement. Up front, a illuminated panel features 142 individually animated LED stars surrounding the central Mercedes star emblem.Seamless pop-out flush door handles, full-width LED light bars, and a massive single-piece panoramic glass roof complete the exterior.

Mercedes-Benz CLA250+ Key Specifications

Stepping inside reveals the headlining MBUX Superscreen, combining a 10.25-inch driver cluster with two 14-inch displays for the center console and front passenger. Powered by the new MB.OS operating system integrated with advanced artificial intelligence, the cabin offers natural voice interaction, personalized routines, and seamless cloud connectivity. Practicality gets a boost too alongside a 405-litre rear boot, the CLA introduces a spacious 101-litre front trunk (frunk) for the first time on a Mercedes EV.

Estimated Pricing and Launch Schedule in Malaysia

Following media previews and teasers, the official launch of the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV in Malaysia is imminent.Tentative pricing for the CLA250+ starts around RM295,888, positioning it competitively against premium mid-sized electric sedans like the BMW i4, Tesla Model 3 Long Range, and Seal Performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the real-world electric range of the new Mercedes-Benz CLA250+?

While officially rated at up to 792 km under the WLTP testing cycle, real-world range will depend on speed and air conditioning usage. However, thanks to its 85 kWh battery and ultra-low consumption (12.2 kWh/100km), real-world highway driving should easily exceed 600 km.

2. How fast can the CLA EV charge in Malaysia?

Equipped with an 800V architecture, it supports DC charging up to 320 kW. At a compatible DC fast charger, you can add 325 km of range in just 10 minutes. Standard 11 kW AC charging takes around 11 hours for a full charge.

3. Does the new CLA have a frunk?

Yes! The all-new CLA EV is the first modern Mercedes-Benz electric vehicle to include a front trunk (frunk), offering 101 litres of storage space.

4. What is the expected price of the CLA250+ in Malaysia?

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has indicated an estimated starting price of RM295,888 for the single-motor CLA250+.

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