Mercedes launched in Israel the new generation of its small sedan, the CLA, currently in its electric version, while the gasoline models will be introduced this month. The price starts at NIS 300,000, NIS 50,000 cheaper than the least expensive gasoline version of the previous generation.
Moreover, the new CLA will arrive with two batteries, 58 or 85 kWh, with the latter offering an official combined driving range of 792 kilometers, making it the electric vehicle with the longest range in Israel, while the Tesla Model 3 Long Range rear-wheel drive reaches only 750 km but costs NIS 225,000. The long-range CLA starts from NIS 370,000.
The new CLA continues with the four-door coupe appearance. With a length of 4.72 meters, a width of 1.855 meters, a height of 1.47 meters, and a wheelbase of 2.79 meters, it is 3.5 cm longer than its predecessor, 2.5 cm wider, 2.4 cm taller, and its wheelbase has been extended by 6 cm to solve the issue that has accompanied the CLA since the first generation — rear-seat space.
The rear trunk offers a volume of 405 liters, with an additional front trunk offering 101 liters.
In the driver’s environment, there is a screen spanning the full width of the cabin, combining a 14-inch multimedia and control display with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. There is also voice control integrating AI, with ChatGPT and Google Gemini. Safety features include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with lane-change capability via the indicator stalk, blind-spot monitoring, lane keeping assistance, door-opening warning for traffic in the adjacent lane, automatic high beams, and more.
The base CLA200 version arrives with 224 hp, 34.1 kgm of torque, rear-wheel drive, and a 58-kWh battery. Performance: 0–100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, a top speed of 210 km/h, and a combined range of 540 km. AC charging is available at 11 kW, and fast charging at 200 kW. However, CLA models are designed for 800-volt charging and will not be able to receive fast charging from every station in the country.
The CLA250 upgrades output to 272 hp with the same torque and an 85-kWh battery. The classic acceleration is shortened to 6.7 seconds, the top speed is identical, and the combined range rises to 792 km.
The CLA350 upgrades to all-wheel drive, with the added front motor raising output to 354 hp and torque to 52.5 kgm. Acceleration is shortened to 4.9 seconds with an identical top speed. Range: 772 km.
The base Icon trim level (available only with the smaller battery) comes with 18-inch wheels, an illuminated front end, a sunroof, synthetic-leather-and-fabric upholstery, rear-seat air vents, a 14-inch multimedia screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a rearview camera, and 360-degree parking sensors.
The Elite trim level (between NIS 320,000 and NIS 410,000, available across all versions) adds electrically operated front seats, wireless phone charging, a smart key, and ambient lighting.
The Signature trim level (between NIS 360,000 and NIS 440,000) upgrades to 19-inch wheels and adds a 14-inch passenger-side display, a 16-speaker Burmester audio system, dual-zone climate control, and a power-operated trunk lid.
The AMG trim level (between NIS 380,000 and NIS 470,000) adds a sporty design package, sport seats, and a sport steering wheel.
The CLA has been Mercedes’ best-selling model in Israel and is expected to remain so now. The base version offers an attractive price but lacks genuine luxury features. In addition, abroad, the price gaps between it and other electric sedans such as the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6 are smaller.