On September 25, the all-new pure electric model from Beijing Benz, the Long Wheelbase Electric CLA, was officially available for pre-sale. The new model comes in two versions: the Super Long Range and Super Long Range Intelligent versions, with pre-sale prices of 259,000 CNY and 299,000 CNY, respectively. The new CLA is built on the MMA platform, making it the first model of its kind, and offers a pure electric range of 866 km. It is expected to officially launch later this year.
In terms of exterior design, the Long Wheelbase Electric CLA features a large trapezoidal grille with numerous brand logos embedded, all of which can light up to showcase its electric style. Additionally, the grille is equipped with a continuous LED light strip that connects to the headlights, which also incorporate the “three-pointed star” logo element. The front design language is quite rich.
On the side of the vehicle, the new model retains the classic coupe-style design of the Mercedes-Benz CLA. The shoulder line is designed in sections, with hidden door handles below it. In terms of size, the new Long Wheelbase Electric CLA has dimensions of 4763/1856/1469mm, with a wheelbase of 2830mm. Compared to the standard wheelbase model, the wheelbase has increased by 40mm. At the rear, the new model offers a full-width light strip, with tail lights that incorporate the “three-pointed star” element and feature round-shaped lights, which provide high recognition when illuminated.
Inside, the new Long Wheelbase Electric CLA features a new three-screen design. It consists of a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch central control screen, and an optional 14-inch entertainment screen for the front passenger. It is equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s latest MB.OS operating system, supports AI voice assistants, and features 5G connectivity. The front passenger side can also interact with the screens through gesture controls. Additionally, the car supports an optional 12.2-inch HUD head-up display and comes with a 16-speaker Burmester sound system. For intelligent driving assistance, the new model is equipped with the latest MB.DRIVE system, which supports L2+ level driver assistance and comes with an advanced parking system.
The new CLA also comes with a standard panoramic sunroof that seamlessly extends from the front windshield to the rear, offering a stunning view. The vehicle is equipped with the “SoundExperience” system, which supports Dolby Atmos surround sound and provides various sound modes for different scenes. The pure electric version of the CLA is the first Mercedes-Benz model to feature a front trunk with a capacity of 101 liters. Additionally, the new car continues to use a traditional trunk lid instead of a liftback, with an internal volume of 405 liters. The rear seats can be folded in a 4/2/4 ratio, further expanding the storage space.
In terms of power, the Long Wheelbase Electric CLA is based on the MMA architecture. The pre-sale version is an all-wheel-drive model (CLA 300), with a total output of 260 kW and a torque of 515 Nm. It is equipped with an 89 kWh lithium-ion battery, providing a range of 866 km under the CLTC cycle and supports DC fast charging of up to 320 kW. Additionally, according to information from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, a two-wheel-drive version (CLA 250) has been registered, featuring a maximum power of 200 kW and peak torque of 335 Nm, and is expected to be launched simultaneously, providing a more affordable option for the Long Wheelbase Electric CLA.
The CLA, an entry-level coupe from Mercedes-Benz, was first unveiled at the 2013 North American International Auto Show. It is built on the same MFA platform as the new A-Class and is currently in its second generation. However, since the CLA is a niche model in the domestic market, its overall sales have been relatively low, with 5,660 units sold in 2024, 3,523 units in 2023, and 3,175 units in the first eight months of 2025.
In terms of pricing, the main competitors of the new Long Wheelbase Electric CLA will include models such as the Xiaomi SU7 and Tesla Model 3. However, since the CLA is a compact car, its dimensions are much smaller than those of these models. Mercedes-Benz’s electric vehicles have historically had moderate sales, and as a niche model, the success of the domestically produced, extended version of the CLA will depend on its competitive pricing to effectively compete with domestic sedans.
