Besides 2.0T, all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA will have EV, hybrid powertrains
Next-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA powertrain details revealed
The next-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA is on the horizon as the automaker recently released teaser photos of the upcoming sedan albeit wearing a camouflage livery. In addition, the all-new CLA will be available with a 2.0L turbocharged engine developed by the Geely-Renault joint venture, Horse Powertrain Limited.
Fast forward weeks later, Mercedes-Benz has released new details about its latest sedan. For starters, the CLA's new Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) platform will sprout several other models that will include two crossover SUVs, a wagon, as well as another sedan. More importantly, the CLA's new platform will allow the vehicle to come with various powertrains, including full electric mobility.
Starting with the EV versions, entry-level variants will have a single rear electric motor that makes 272 PS and is mated to a two-speed transmission. Meanwhile, a more powerful AWD version gets a front electric motor that provides an extra 109 PS. But unlike most AWD EVs, Mercedes-Benz says the front motor can automatically disengage should it not be needed.
The EV models come with an 800V architecture and are expected to be able to travel up to 750 km based on the WLTP cycle, based on the available variants. Available battery packs for the CLA will include a 58 kWh lithium-iron phosphate and a higher-capacity 85 kWh silicon dioxide. Last but not least, Mercedes-Benz says the all-new CLA EV is capable of supporting 320 kW fast DC charging.
Over to the hybrid versions, the 2026 CLA will have a 1.5L four-cylinder engine that will be assisted by an electric motor housed within the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 1.5L engine will be available in three states of tune; 136 PS, 163 PS, and 190 PS. Meanwhile, the electric motor provides an additional 27 PS.
As for the previously mentioned 2.0L turbo, there are still no details yet although we won't be surprised if it's more powerful than the 1.5L hybrid models.
Other details regarding the all-new CLA are still kept under wraps. But with Mercedes-Benz already revealing powertrain details about the next-generation sedan, perhaps the automaker is making the final preparations before its official unveiling.
