Mercedes CLA Electric 2025 review
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (freely licensed — see file page), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The all-new Mercedes CLA is electric-first: built on the brand's MMA platform with an 800-volt electrical system, it arrived in the UK in 2025 as the car Mercedes expects to reset expectations for range. The CLA 250+ Sport Edition costs £45,615 and pairs an 85 kWh battery with a 200 kW (272 hp) rear motor.
The headline number is 484 miles of WLTP range — the longest of any electric car in its class — delivered by outstanding aerodynamics and a two-speed transmission on the rear axle. Performance is strong too: 0–62 mph in 6.7 seconds and a 130 mph top speed. When you do need to charge, up to 320 kW DC charging is possible.
Inside, the new MB.OS software powers the MBUX Superscreen — a full-width display incorporating a 10.25-inch driver display and 14-inch central touchscreen — with AI assistance and Level 2+ driver assistance. At 4,723 mm long it remains a compact executive saloon, though the 2,135 kg kerb weight betrays its big battery.
Rivals include the Tesla Model 3, BMW i4 and Polestar 2. None can match the CLA's range claim, but all undercut it on price. For long-distance drivers who want to charge as rarely as possible, the CLA 250+ is currently in a class of one.
Related reviews: Mercedes A Class 2024 review · Mercedes C Class 2024 review · Mercedes E Class 2024 review
UK price from: £45,615
Specifications
| Battery | 85 kWh |
| Power | 272 hp (200 kW) |
| 0–62 mph | 6.7 seconds |
| Top speed | 130 mph |
| Range (WLTP) | 484 miles |
| Rapid charging | Up to 320 kW DC |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Transmission | 2-speed automatic |
| Length | 4,723 mm |
| Kerb weight | 2,135 kg |
| Seats | 5 |
| Fuel type | Electric |
Features
- 85 kWh battery with 200 kW (272 hp) rear motor
- Up to 484 miles of WLTP range — best in class
- 320 kW DC ultra-rapid charging (800-volt system)
- Two-speed transmission for efficiency and pace
- MBUX Superscreen with 14-inch central display
- MB.OS with AI voice assistant and over-the-air updates
- DISTRONIC adaptive cruise with lane-centring assistance
- Heat pump for efficient winter driving
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads (set) | £95 | OEM |
| Cabin/pollen filter | £28 | |
| 12V battery | £120 | |
| Front wiper blades (pair) | £35 | |
| Tyre 225/45 R18 (each) | £150 | Fitted price varies |
| Air-conditioning regas | £99 |
Pros
- 484-mile range leads the class by a distance
- 320 kW charging adds miles in minutes
- Premium tech with the MBUX Superscreen
- Superb efficiency from the two-speed gearbox
Cons
- £45,615 starting price is steep
- 2,135 kg kerb weight dulls agility
- Rear legroom tighter than a Tesla Model 3
- Options list quickly inflates the price