Despite the SUV trend, the new Mercedes-Benz CLA is creating its own appeal, with orders surpassing expectations just three months after its launch.
According to the German automaker, the Stuttgart-Untertürkheim factory has added a third shift to accelerate the production of the Mercedes-Benz CLA and meet market demand. Currently, approximately 200 CLA cars are produced daily, equivalent to an annual output of about 50,000 units. However, the factory has the capacity to expand its production to several hundred thousand units annually thanks to the new MMA platform, which will be shared by multiple models in the future.
For the first time in the CLA lineage, Mercedes-Benz is offering both all-electric and internal combustion engine versions simultaneously. This is considered a contributing factor to the new CLA’s strong appeal.
In the all-electric lineup, the company unveiled two main variants: the CLA 250+ EQ and the CLA 350 4MATIC EQ. Both utilize a high-voltage 800V architecture and a lithium-ion battery with an 85 kWh capacity.
The CLA 250+ EQ is powered by a rear-mounted electric motor that generates 272 horsepower and 335 Nm of torque.
Meanwhile, the CLA 350 4MATIC EQ is equipped with dual motors and an all-wheel-drive system, delivering an impressive 353 horsepower and a maximum torque of 515 Nm.
In addition to the all-electric models, the internal combustion engine versions of the CLA will enter production in the coming months. These variants will feature a 1.5L four-cylinder gasoline engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system, although detailed performance specifications have not yet been disclosed. Mercedes has also confirmed that it will assemble the CLA Shooting Brake variant this year.
Jörg Burzer, Head of Production at Mercedes-Benz, stated that the order intake for the new CLA is “very encouraging,” while affirming that the production ramp-up is progressing well. However, he acknowledged challenges in the supply chain, particularly regarding rare earth materials from China, which are crucial for electric drive systems. Nonetheless, Mercedes-Benz has proactively secured the supply of essential components.
Despite increased production, delivery times may still be extended. Many orders placed in April 2025 will have to wait until 2026 for their vehicles to be delivered. In response to this situation, the company plans to temporarily halt internal employee orders to prioritize external customer orders.
While many automotive brands are phasing out sedans in favor of high-riding vehicles, Mercedes-Benz is taking a different approach. With the positive reception of the new CLA, especially the all-electric versions, the German automaker reinforces its commitment to investing in the sedan segment, underscoring its enduring appeal to global consumers.
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