2027 Mercedes-Benz CLA350 EV Brief Review: At the Very Least, It's Efficient

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      I have a preference for smaller cars, particularly small luxury models. Vehicles labeled as “entry-level,” such as the 2027 Mercedes-Benz CLA350 4Matic Electric we’re discussing, or the BMW 2 Series, are often dismissed as merely stepping stones for buyers aspiring for a prestigious badge. But why should only larger SUVs enjoy premium materials and appealing designs?

      The updated CLA doesn’t strike me as a product hastily created merely to satisfy budget-conscious customers in Mercedes’ lower financial brackets. It’s evident that a lot of thought went into its development. Unfortunately, Mercedes frequently made disappointing choices for this compact sedan.

      Now in its third generation, the CLA is available only as an electric vehicle with two powertrain options. The CLA250+ has a starting price of $48,500, featuring rear-wheel drive, 268 horsepower, and 248 lb-ft of torque. The CLA350 introduces a second motor on the front axle for all-wheel drive, increasing output to 349 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. Oddly, it’s only $2,550 more than the rear-wheel-drive version, making entry into this model as low as $51,050.

      I’m particularly fond of the Sky Blue Metallic color on this test vehicle, which costs $750. However, this specific model was priced at $67,155, a hefty amount for a compact sedan. The additional $16,000 worth of options includes the $2,100 AMG Line and a $5,850 Pinnacle Line package, the latter of which features an additional panel in the dashboard referred to as the “Superscreen.” It’s often said, but it's true: I’m at a loss for what users are expected to accomplish with this display that they couldn't do with their smartphones.

      While I wish it were possible to forgo this feature, the Pinnacle Line includes desirable items such as a heads-up display, digital key, and parking assist. It also features the Exclusive Line, which provides dual-zone climate control and a center armrest for the somewhat cramped rear seat. Additionally, if you desire a heated steering wheel—something this vehicle lacked—you’ll need to purchase a separate Winter Package.

      Indeed, Mercedes isn’t shy about adding expenses to their compact sedan options. This is unfortunate because the CLA performs quite well from a powertrain perspective. Both versions are equipped with an 85-kWh battery pack, and Mercedes claims a maximum range of 312 miles for the more powerful version (while the CLA250 can cover up to 374 miles). This little EV is impressively efficient, averaging a remarkable 3.94 mi/kWh throughout my experience with it. However, the 350 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque shouldn't be viewed in isolation, since the dual-motor CLA weighs in at 4,700 pounds, though it does offer decent straight-line acceleration.

      However, this weight takes a toll during cornering. Even in sport mode, which enhances steering effort but doesn’t adjust damping, the CLA tends to roll and struggle when navigating turns with any speed. Normal driving and low-speed maneuvers are acceptable, with a light steering feel providing precise handling. But this sedan is oriented towards comfort and never instills confidence in more spirited driving scenarios. Even the combination of regenerative braking and traditional brakes feels imprecise, making it challenging to modulate pressure.

      Inside, the CLA presents a mixed experience. Aesthetically, I think the cabin is excellent. The materials used feel premium; the yacht-striped oak trim on my test vehicle pairs beautifully with the beech-brown leather and brushed aluminum accents. Even as someone who typically dislikes RGB lighting, I have to acknowledge that the red glow from the circular, turbine-like HVAC vents looks impressive at night.

      The electrochromic Sky Control panoramic roof, a $1,050 option, can switch between clear and frosted and even alternate between the two with just a few taps on the screen. The interior is lovely, until it comes time to actually use the controls.

      The infotainment screen in the CLA is so large that the right side of the steering wheel obstructs many of its small UI components on the left side. Accessing Apple CarPlay isn’t straightforward—you can’t simply press the home button again to bring up phone projection. Unfortunately, you also can’t skip songs or switch radio presets using the steering wheel in this fourth generation of Mercedes’ MBUX operating system. They likely expect you to use voice commands for these tasks, but do you really want to keep saying “next track” every time Spotify serves up a song you don’t like?

      The oddities continue when it’s time to charge the CLA’s battery. While most EVs have a single charge port, the CLA has two: one J1172 port and a NACS port. However