Mercedes-Benz CLA EV to debut as entry-level electric sedan in India
Mercedes-Benz has officially confirmed that the all-electric CLA will make its India debut in April 2026. The upcoming electric sedan will play a key role in the brand’s local portfolio, effectively taking the place of multiple entry-level models that have been phased out in recent years.
The CLA EV is set to replace the earlier A-Class sedan as well as the EQA and EQB electric SUVs in India, signalling a consolidation of Mercedes-Benz’s entry luxury offerings into a single, more globally aligned product.
Positioned as the brand’s most accessible electric vehicle for India, the CLA EV is expected to be offered in a rear-wheel-drive configuration. While India-specific technical specifications are yet to be announced, the international version provides a clear indication of what to expect.
Globally, the CLA EV is available with an 85kWh battery pack in two variants. The CLA 250+ uses a single rear-mounted motor producing 268 HP and 335 Nm, with a claimed WLTP range of up to 792 km. A more powerful CLA 350 variant adds a second motor for all-wheel drive, generating 349 HP and 515 Nm. For India, Mercedes-Benz is expected to focus on the CLA 250+ to keep positioning and pricing in check.
The CLA EV adopts a clean and aerodynamic design that differentiates it clearly from its combustion-powered predecessor. The front features a closed-off grille finished in gloss black, highlighted by illuminated tristar motifs. The LED headlamps are connected by a slim light bar, a design theme that continues at the rear with a full-width LED strip linking the tail-lamps.
From the side, the electric sedan maintains a coupe-like silhouette with flush door handles and subtle black lower-body cladding. Buyers can expect alloy wheel options ranging from 17 to 19 inches, designed with aerodynamic efficiency in mind.
In terms of size, the international-spec CLA EV measures 4723 mm in length with a wheelbase of 2790 mm. It offers a 405-litre boot along with a 101-litre front trunk, adding to everyday practicality.
Inside, the CLA EV features a modern, screen-centric layout. Standard equipment includes a dual-display setup with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. An additional front passenger display is offered as an optional extra.
Comfort features on the global model include powered and heated front seats with memory, a panoramic glass roof and automatic climate control. Higher variants and option packs add a Burmester sound system, head-up display and dual-zone climate control.
Safety is a major focus as well. The CLA EV comes equipped with multiple airbags, a 360-degree camera system, blind-spot monitoring and Level 2 ADAS. The model has also achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating, and similar safety specifications are expected for the India-bound version.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA EV is expected to be priced around Rs. 60 lakhs (ex-showroom), placing it in competition with premium electric models such as the Tesla Model Y and the Kia EV6. With its sedan form factor, long driving range and brand positioning, the CLA EV will offer an alternative take on entry-level luxury electric mobility in India.
