The Mercedes-Benz CLA EV starts at under $48,000 with impressive driving range

The smartest, most advanced Mercedes-Benz vehicle to date is surprisingly affordable. Mercedes announced that the new CLA EV will start under $48,000 and offer more driving range than the Tesla Model 3.

Mercedes-Benz CLA EV prices and driving range

The new all-electric CLA is finally here, kicking off a new generation of Mercedes models. Mercedes-Benz revealed that prices for the 2026 CLA 250+ with EQ Technology will start at $47,250.

Powered by an 85 kWh battery pack, the new electric CLA offers an impressive driving range of up to 374 miles. It will be available in two trims: CLA 250+ and CLA 350 4MATIC.

The base model (CLA 250+) is equipped with a rear electric motor with up to 268 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD (CLA 350 4MATIC) packs up to 349 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque.

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Thanks to its advanced 800V architecture, the new electric sedan is significantly more efficient with ultra-fast charging. Using a 320 kW DC fast charger, the new Mercedes CLA EV can add 100 miles of range in just five minutes, or 202 miles in as little as 10 minutes.

With a drag coefficient of 0.21, the electric CLA is on par with the Tesla Model 3 and the Hyundai IONIQ 6. Although you can clearly tell it’s still a Mercedes, the new CLA introduces a few new design elements.

In comparison, the base Tesla Model 3 Standard RWD starts at $36,990 with a 321-mile range. Upgrading to the Premium RWD costs $42,490 with a 363-mile range. The AWD Model 3 is priced from $47,490 with up to 346 miles of range.

Up front, the CLA features a redesigned grille with 142 individually illuminated stars and an illuminated Mercedes-Benz star at the center as standard. New high-performance LED headlights with the Mercedes star design add to the sporty, modern design.

The interior offers a relatively minimalistic setup with plenty of screens and advanced new tech. Mercedes’ new MBUX Superscreen offers nearly 40″ of screen space, including a 10.25″ driver display, a 14″ central infotainment screen, and an additional 14″ front passenger screen.

A premium Burmester 3D Surround Sound System with 16 speakers and Dolby Atmos technology is another optional feature.

It’s also equipped with Mercedes’ most comprehensive advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to date, including features such as Distance Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and Evasive Steering. Upgrading to the optional Digital Extra package gains Steering Assist and Lane Change Assist.

Mercedes will begin delivering the first 2026 CLA EV models to customers next month, with output ramping up through early 2026.

Ready to check it out for yourself? We’re here to help. You can use our link to find the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA EV in your area (trusted affiliate link).