Mercedes-Benz CLA 250e
The stylish Mercedes-Benz CLA gets the plug-in hybrid treatment.
Highlights
Sleek, stylish looks
New high-tech powertrain
Stunning interior
More expensive in hybrid form
Real world range is limited
Like all plug-ins will require charging dicipline
Overview
The Mercedes CLA is the latest in the line-up to get a plug-in hybrid version with the capable new 250e.
Interior Gallery
Space & Practicality
Rating
The CLA is a compact take on the executive saloon, mirroring the sleek silhouette of the larger CLS but with smaller dimensions and a smaller price tag. A derivative of the A-Class, inside would be comparable to your typical hatchback – its traditional rivals include Audi’s A3 saloon and BMW’s 2-Series Gran Coupé. The backseat will carry two adults in relative comfort although that sporty sweeping roofline does have a slight impact on rear headroom. The boot of the 250e measures in at 390 litres, a reduction of 70 litres on the standard CLA to accommodate the battery pack. While still reasonably practical, those after a bit more space might be better off looking at the Shooting Brake which also comes as a plug-in hybrid.
Equipment and Safety
Rating
The petrol CLA starts at €45,370, with a €3,500 premium for this hybrid model in the Progressive trim level. Standard equipment is generous with all the luxury one might expect from a Mercedes cabin. The stylish and functional MBUX wraparound infotainment system is the main attraction with its sharp graphics and clever voice control system. It works with Apple Carplay and Android Auto for those who prefer their own smartphone interface but the native system is also excellent to use. Heated front seats and comfort suspension are standard to ensure a smooth ride and a choice of over sixty interior lighting shades makes it hard to beat when it comes to cabin ambience.
Performance & Running Costs
Rating
The CLA 250e is powered by a 1.3l petrol engine along with an electric motor which with the battery fully charged should give you up to 69km of range. This gives it a combined power output of 218hp and helps it to get from 0-100km in just 6.8 seconds. The result is a very enjoyable drive, particularly with the battery fully charged where you can enjoy the seamless power uptake and near silent cabin. While we found the real world electric range closer to 50km, we still found it very usable. With disciplined charging, most of the daily commuting and school runs could be done without ever having to dip in to the fuel tank. Not that it’s a big ordeal when you do want to take a longer spin; the transition to petrol power is practically seamless and the experience behind the wheel just as refined albeit with a little more engine noise.
Reliability & Residuals
Rating
The addition of a semi-electric powertrain to this end of the market is a timely one and the CLA 250e will have huge appeal to those who want to up their green credentials without sacrificing on style or refinement. As with all plug-in hybrids, a certain degree of discipline will be required to get the most from this powertrain but for the right type of driver, it’s a car that very much appears to be able to offer the best of all worlds.
Facts & Figures
Car Tested: Mercedes-Benz 250e Coupé
Car Tested Price: €49,382
Starting Price
€47,430
Fuel Economy
1.5l/km
0 - 100kms
6.9s
Power
218hp
Emissions
23g/km
Tax
€140
Seats
5
Isofix
2
Bootspace
390
NCAP safety rating
5 stars
