Even if its official presentation is only scheduled for spring 2025, the future Mercedes CLA is already significantly reducing its camouflage. This “four-door coupe” thus confirms that it will be inspired by the concept unveiled in 2023.
For Mercedes, the CLA “four-door coupe” is no longer perceived as a simple niche model. While the A Class is set to disappear, this sedan with its slender profile will soon serve as the gateway to the brand. As a bonus, its future generation will release a very ambitious new platform, called MMA and designed for both 100% electric and thermal. It will then be used in a whole range of compact vehicles. The Stuttgart manufacturer therefore knows that it must not miss out and is increasing the number of test kilometers before the launch of this new version, scheduled for next spring.
Future Mercedes-Benzes expected in 2025
A style between continuity and novelty
Until now completely camouflaged, the prototypes are starting to wear a lighter disguise. The profile is thus almost exposed. The glazing and the arch-shaped roof remain close to the current model, which sought to play the CLS in reduction, and the rear overhang remains significant. But the door handles can now be retracted to optimize aerodynamics. Even if strategic masking remains applied at the front and rear, the light signatures are also clearly visible. They are very reminiscent of the CLA concept unveiled at the 2023 Munich Motor Show, with diodes arranged to mimic the brand’s Star logo. We can also quite clearly see the presence of a classic trunk. Hatchback enthusiasts will have to wait for the upcoming Shooting Brake version, which has been confirmed. On the other hand, the grille still remains well hidden for the moment.
Innovative electric versions
On the technical side, Mercedes did not just reveal that this third generation of its compact “four-door coupe” will debut the new MMA platform. She also leaked some interesting features on the electric versions of this new CLA. We know in particular that they have an 800V electrical network, still rare at this level of range and which allows very rapid recharging. Even more unusual, they receive a two-speed automatic transmission, only used by the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-Tron GT until now. This would reduce electricity consumption on motorways.
On paper, this is something to worry about the BMW i4 and Tesla Model 3. But this CLA will not put all its eggs in the “zero emissions” basket. It will also offer a 48V mild hybridization, with a new 1.5 turbo four-cylinder. He will also be entitled to an entirely new multimedia system which will be based on artificial intelligence. It is therefore a strategic model in more than one way, which could well tell us more from next January 10: at the Brussels Motor Show, a camouflaged example will be present on the brand’s stand.
A brand new thermal engine for the Mercedes CLA
Published on 12/30/2024 at 1:30 p.m.
- -
