The CLA Sedan is the compact four-door of the Mercedes-Benz range and opens a new generation of compact models, built on a platform engineered for both electric and combustion power. It was revealed in March 2025 and named 2026 European Car of the Year. The petrol CLA 200 reached South African showrooms in June 2026, and the electric CLA 250+ joined the local line-up later that year.

The two versions share a body and cabin but drive different wheels. The CLA 200 is front-wheel drive and uses a 48-volt hybrid system, with a small electric motor housed in its eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, so it is refuelled like any petrol car and never needs plugging in. The CLA 250+ uses a single electric motor mounted at the rear.

Inside, a 10.25-inch driver display sits beside a 14-inch central touchscreen, and the optional MBUX Superscreen adds a third screen for the front passenger. The system runs the fourth generation of MBUX, which draws on generative AI from Microsoft and Google.

The South African range

  • CLA 200: 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol, 120 kW and 250 Nm, with a 48-volt electric motor integrated into the eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox
  • CLA 250+ with EQ Technology: rear-mounted electric motor, 200 kW and 335 Nm, 85 kWh battery, rear-wheel drive

Good to know

  • The CLA 250+ has a claimed WLTP range of up to 792 km, accepts DC fast charging at up to 320 kW and charges on AC at 11 kW as standard.
  • The CLA 200 is front-wheel drive and the CLA 250+ is rear-wheel drive; neither local version has all-wheel drive.
  • Mercedes-Benz South Africa still lists the previous-generation CLA separately as the CLA Coupé, so check which generation a car belongs to when shopping.

Range as listed on the Mercedes-Benz South Africa website on 18 October 2026. No prices are shown: specifications, availability and pricing change, so confirm with an authorised dealer. Written independently by Mercedes-Benz Owners; not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by Mercedes-Benz.

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