Mercedes-Benz has introduced a long-wheelbase version of its all-electric CLA saloon tailored specifically for the Chinese market, just weeks after the global debut of the standard model. The CLA L made its premiere at the 2025 Auto Shanghai, marking the first time the automaker has applied the long-wheelbase format to this vehicle class.
The CLA L extends both the wheelbase and overall length by four centimetres compared to the version intended for Europe, reaching a wheelbase of 2.83 metres and a total length of 4.76 metres. The additional space is directed toward rear passenger comfort, in line with consumer preferences in China. Width and height remain unchanged.
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The vehicle is equipped with a rear-wheel drive configuration, a two-speed transmission, and features an 800-volt electrical system. The electric CLA L achieves a range of up to 866 kilometres under the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC), with an energy consumption rate of 10.9 kWh per 100 kilometres according to the same standard. For comparison, the European version offers a WLTP range of up to 792 kilometres.
Built on Mercedes-Benz’s new Modular Architecture (MMA), the CLA represents the company’s next step in its electrification strategy following tepid market performance from the earlier EQ series. Production has reportedly begun at the Rastatt plant in Germany, with the model’s order release date moved forward from June to late April.
The CLA also reflects evolving design trends, maintaining proportions similar to its combustion-powered predecessor while incorporating seamless LED light strips reminiscent of Smart models influenced by Mercedes’ design direction. The MMA platform supports two battery configurations: a 58-kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) option aimed at cost-conscious buyers and a higher-capacity 85-kWh battery with a nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) cathode and silicon oxide additive.
Mercedes-Benz also used the Auto Shanghai event to reveal the Vision V show car, a conceptual preview of a future top-tier model to be built on the forthcoming Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA).
