Facelifted Mercedes CLA: it adopts micro-hybrid technology

The Mercedes CLA, a four-door coupe branded with the star, is evolving with small updates and now incorporates 48V mild-hybrid technology for its combustion engines.

The Mercedes CLA was launched in 2013 for its first generation. Based on the compact Class A, it “democratized” the four-door coupe, which until then had been reserved for the high-end CLS. The model was a success, with 750,000 units sold over six years of production. More ambitious than its predecessor, the second generation of the Mercedes CLA (Type 118 for insiders), was introduced in early 2019, marking a significant upgrade in technological features.

Regarding engines, customers can choose from a wide range: CLA 180 (136 hp), CLA 200 (163 hp), CLA 250 (224 hp), CLA 35 AMG (306 hp), and CLA 45 AMG (421 hp) for petrol, CLA 180d (116 hp), CLA 200d (150 hp) for diesel, and CLA 250e (218 hp) for plug-in hybrid.

At mid-cycle, the German four-door coupe receives a facelift while awaiting a third generation, which will very likely be fully electric by 2025. Visually, while not revolutionary, the restyled Mercedes CLA features new rear lights, strengthening its kinship with the unassailable Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The bumpers are also redesigned, and the front lights adopt a two-tier visual signature.

As with every facelift, Mercedes will roll out a new palette of colors and new wheel designs for the 2023 version. Inside, the two 10.25-inch multimedia screens remain, but the software is updated, offering new customization options for the most tech-savvy among us. The standard equipment should also include a 360-degree camera, while the more upscale trims will have access to the highly useful head-up display.

Mercedes Updates Its Powertrains

Saving the best for last. All petrol and diesel engines now feature a 48V mild-hybrid system with a Boost function that adds 13 hp at startup. Besides improving driving pleasure, fuel consumption should decrease slightly at steady speeds. Depending on the engine, customers will have access to 7- or 8-speed automatic transmissions.

The PHEV plug-in hybrid version is, of course, continued, with a now more powerful electric motor by 7 horsepower, reaching 107 horsepower. More notably, its battery can be recharged either on AC power at 11 kW or on DC power at 22 kW.

Finally, ground connection specialists have refined the suspension to provide drivers and passengers with a better balance of efficiency and comfort. We look forward to verifying this in a future review of the restyled Mercedes CLA on Mobiwisy.

Read also: The future Mercedes EQG 100% electric revealed further