2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA electric: Tesla Model 3 rival coming

The next-generation 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA sedan will focus on pure battery-electric power to directly rival the popular Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2.

According to Autocar, the sporty-looking EV is expected to be available in a sedan body style and will be based on the Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA), with a second-generation permanent magnet synchronous motor, a silicon carbide inverter and a two-speed gearbox.

It will take some inspiration from the ultra-efficient Vision EQXX concept car, with an 800-volt class charging architecture for up to 350kW DC ultra-rapid charging, module-less lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, and the possibility of a new silicon-anode battery for a longer-range variant.

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As MMA is an ‘electric first’ platform but can accommodate internal combustion engines, the British publication suggests a 48-volt mild-hybrid CLA will be sold in select markets six months after the full EV launch.

It will be a Euro 7-compliant four-cylinder petrol unit with some components from Chinese carmaker Geely, which is the largest shareholder in Mercedes’ parent company Daimler.

The third-gen electrified CLA is one of four new ‘Entry Luxury’ models in the pipeline as the German marque restructures its smaller model line-up ahead of going all-electric by 2030 – but only where market conditions allow.

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The CLA sedan will be joined by the related CLA Shooting Brake wagon, next-gen MMA-based GLA/EQC small SUV, and GLB/EQB medium SUV; however, the recently facelifted A-Class small hatchback and sedan and B-Class small people mover will be discontinued by the end of 2026.

Expect all models to feature the automaker’s latest MB.OS infotainment software, with built-in Google Maps navigation, a third-party app store, and unlockable features via a subscription.

The current Mercedes-Benz CLA will receive a facelift locally in the third quarter of this year with subtle tweaks.

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