Automotive News: High-tech, electrified, efficient: the all-new Mercedes CLA hybrid

The new Mercedes CLA hybrid offers more to customers in every dimension: more refinement, more comfort, more intelligence, more efficiency, and now more drivetrain flexibility with a new highly efficient hybrid powertrain.

The CLA hybrid makes an emotional statement with its athletic proportions and unique radiator grille. Thanks to the Mercedes‑Benz Operating System (MB.OS) and fourth-generation Mercedes‑Benz User Experience (MBUX) with artificial intelligence (AI) from Microsoft and Google, it is among the most intelligent vehicles from Mercedes-Benz to date.

New electrified eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with integrated electric motor

The new CLA hybrid features a highly compact engine and transmission design. The electric motor and its components are integrated into the new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (8F-eDCT), which offers efficiency and space-saving. A new lightweight, compact 48-volt lithium-ion battery with a 1.3-kWh usable capacity powers the electric motor.

Electric driving and recuperation

In city driving environments, when less than 27 hp is needed to propel the vehicle, the CLA hybrid can drive using only electric power. “Electric gliding”, i.e. efficient coasting with a decoupled drivetrain, is possible up to 60 mph depending on the driving situation. Recuperation, up to 25 kW, is also possible in all eight gears.

The torque of the combustion engine and the electric motor are additive, enabling peak combined system torque to be available over a wide range of speeds. Furthermore, the electric motor and disconnect clutch handles starting the combustion engine, which eliminates the need for a traditional pinion starter. This also allows start-stop function and switching between the two motors is almost imperceptible to the driver.

New four-cylinder turbo engine from FAME engine family with Miller cycle combustion process

Developed by Mercedes‑Benz, the new 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is designed for both power and efficiency. It uses a combustion process on the Miller cycle to maximize fuel efficiency, especially in partial-load operation – a common situation in everyday driving. The Miller cycle operates slightly different from a traditional four-stroke Otto engine. The relatively early closing of the intake valves reduces throttling losses and allows for a high compression ratio of 12:1.

The new engine (M 252) is part of the Family of Modular Engines (FAME). These feature an all-aluminum crankcase with NANOSLIDE® coating of the cylinder liners, a cylinder head with a partially integrated exhaust manifold and a turbocharger with a segmented turbine and a switchable scroll connection. Additionally, the compact charge-air path and the exhaust system are mounted close to the engine. This one-box design is developed to meet future emission standards. The electric air conditioning compressor with 48-volt technology, adopted from the M 256, reduces friction and allows the air conditioning to operate when the vehicle is stationary with the engine off and during electric driving.

An extensive NVH (Noise, Vibrations, Harshness) package of foams and covers is fitted to the engine to reduce noise. The CLA also employs a double-bulkhead concept, similar to higher model classes. For further noise reduction, the bulkhead insulation extends into the sides of the A-pillar and the floor.

Exceptionally intelligent, intuitive and personalized

The AI-enhanced MB.OS elevates mobility to a new level. Every CLA is equipped with a supercomputer connected to the Mercedes‑Benz Intelligent Cloud. This enables over-the-air updates¹ of the entire vehicle software, including advanced driver assistance systems. This ensures the CLA is up-to-date, much like a smartphone that regularly receives new apps and extended functions.

Thanks to MB.OS, the new CLA offers customers a new world of personalized experiences and intuitive interaction between customer and vehicle. The fourth generation of the MBUX infotainment system integrates artificial intelligence (AI) from both Microsoft and Google. The MBUX Virtual Assistant uses a multi-agent approach, integrating AI tools from both companies. It automatically selects the best source for each task – even during an ongoing conversation – drawing on the collective knowledge of the internet. It enables complex, multi-turn conversations – like one has with a friend – and has short-term memory. The intelligent assistant can also retain context so that customers can continue conversations and retrieve information during a journey.

Intelligent navigation with tailor-made route guidance from Google Maps

In the new CLA, the navigation experience is based on Google Maps¹. Developed in partnership by Google and Mercedes‑Benz, the navigation solution is one of the first systems to integrate Google Cloud’s new Automotive AI Agent for in-vehicle conversation services with Google Maps. Standard MBUX Surround Navigation adds a new dimension of visual communication. On the driver display, it combines in real-time, the driver assistance view with a 3D representation of the vehicle’s surroundings and route guidance.

MB.DRIVE advanced driver assistance systems

The CLA hybrid comes standard with a host of MB.DRIVE advanced driver assistance features. This includes Digital Extra: Distance Assist DISTRONIC², Blind Spot Assist Plus with Exit Warning, Lane Keeping function, among other systems. Additional optional advanced driver assistance systems are available including MB.DRIVE ASSIST, which complements standard Digital Extra: Distance Assist DISTRONIC with Digital Extras: Steering Assist and Lane Change Assist², which facilitates lane changes with a simple click of the indicator stalk.

All-new interior and digital experience

The CLA hybrid features a large, one-piece fixed panoramic glass roof that contributes to the generous sense of space. The optional floating MBUX Superscreen spans the width of the interior with a 10.25-inch driver display, 14-inch central display and 14-inch front passenger display behind a large glass surface. The in-car entertainment offering for the front passenger includes over an expansive portfolio of apps including the video streaming platform Disney+^3,4. All displays are powered by state-of-the-art, high-performance chips and real-time graphics from the Unity Game Engine.

New multifunction steering wheel – return of roller and rocker control concept

The new multifunction steering wheel in the CLA hybrid features improved ergonomics and intuitive control concept. Based on customer feedback, the new steering wheel design incorporates a rocker switch for DIGITAL EXTRA: Distance Assist DISTRONIC and a roller for volume control. Capacitive switch panels provide drivers with tactile aids for better orientation.

Distinctive hybrid grille

Visually, the CLA hybrid closely resembles the all-electric model. A key distinguishing feature of the CLA hybrid is the radiator grille adorned with the Mercedes‑Benz star pattern in chrome. The illuminated surround, included standard), visually frames grille for an unmistakable look.

Star light by day and night

The headlights and taillamps also contribute to the vehicle’s strong visual presence. High performance LED headlights, equipped standard, feature a reflector in the shape of the Mercedes-Benz star. With the optional LED Intelligent Light System, the daytime running light signature takes the form of the Mercedes‑Benz star. Both headlamp styles are connected by a light band. At the rear of the vehicle, a star design is also incorporated into the taillights, which are joined with an illuminated design element.

Technical specifications at a glance: