Mercedes-Benz is still a long way from starting the CLA production, with prototypes completing the last testing sessions before the cold season begins. This allowed the Mercedes-Benz CEO to test drive the prototype and offer exclusive insight into the upcoming entry-level model, including its headlight design.
Mercedes-Benz wowed everyone with the CLA Concept, unveiled last year during the IAA Mobility show in Munich. Coming from the egg-shaped EQ models that failed to impress, that was a refreshing approach that offered hope for Mercedes-Benz's future design. Sure, the CLA Concept was a show car, and some details were exaggerated, but the overall lines looked production-ready.
Throughout 2024, we've watched Mercedes-Benz testing camouflaged prototypes of the upcoming CLA in various settings. The deceiving camo patterns hid most of the design details, including the headlights, leaving us with only what imagination could provide. Now, the three-pointed star brand decided to throw us a bone and show what the production headlights will look like.
As expected, they're not identical to the concept headlights, not even close. Bad habits die hard, and Mercedes-Benz's design team seems unwilling to turn the page. Yes, the headlights integrate a three-pointed star LED lighting signature for the daylight running lights. However, the overall headlight design continues with the dull teardrop shape of previous EQ models.
Hopefully, the upcoming CLA will still have some tricks up its sleeves because Mercedes-Benz is counting on it to reverse the sales' ballistic trajectory. The entry-level model will have to convince younger generations that Mercedes-Benz is still an aspirational brand despite its past mistakes. Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kaellenius thinks this will continue to be the case, thanks to innovative technologies underpinning the CLA.
Present at the company's test facility in Immendingen to test the four-door coupe, Kaellenius offered welcome insight into the upcoming CLA, due to premiere in 2025. Initially announced as an electric-only model, the CLA will still be offered with electrified combustion engines. This is possible thanks to the highly versatile MMA architecture that accepts both electric and combustion powertrains.
The CLA will introduce a newly developed combustion engine, which will become the backbone of the MMA-based lineup. Considering that Mercedes-Benz touts 48-volt technology and an "electrified transmission," it looks like this is a mild-hybrid setup, unable to propel the car on electric power alone.
The electric CLA incorporates technology pioneered by the EQXX concept, including battery cells and drive units. Like the Porsche Taycan, the Mercedes-Benz CLA's drivetrain will feature a two-speed transmission to optimize performance and efficiency. During the video attached below, Kaellenius teases super-short charging times, making the CLA charge "as fast as fueling." However, no technical details are provided, and the video doesn't reveal peak power or charging time.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA will be the first model to debut the new MB.OS infotainment system, which includes the AI-powered MBUX Virtual Assistant. All carmakers are now big into AI virtual assistants powered by ChatGPT, despite previously refusing to cave in to Google Assistant or Apple Siri. In the case of the Mercedes-Benz CLA, the virtual assistant is promised to "enhance the car-driver relationship with natural, intuitive interaction and proactive support."
After his childhood dream of becoming a "tractor operator" didn't pan out, Cristian turned to journalism, first in print and later moving to online media. His top interests are electric vehicles and new energy solutions. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News