Intelligent indeed; The new Mercedes-Benz CLA is the first vehicle to fully operate on the in-house developed ‘Mercedes-Benz Operating System’ (MB.OS), making it the most intelligent Mercedes-Benz ever from this premium car maker. This is thanks to a new AI-enhanced system which makes it possible to equip every vehicle with a super-computer no less, connected to the German brand’s ‘Intelligent Cloud’. This enables regular over-the-air updates for the most important vehicle functions, including driving assistance systems for the first time. This keeps the CLA up-to-date and an attractive option for years to come.
‘MB.OS’, we learn, marks the start of the fourth ‘MBUX’ technology generation. It opens up a new world of personalised experiences and intuitive interaction between humans and their cars, setting new standards for the automotive industry. It’s the first in-car infotainment system to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) from both Microsoft and Google. This combines multiple AI agents in one system for the first time. ‘MB.OS’ offers maximum flexibility to seamlessly integrate content from third-party providers. Given time, in future our cars might even be able to make us a decent cup of coffee.
About The New CLA
This highly advanced saloon car, just recently presented to the world, offers more to owners in every dimension: more space, more refinement, more comfort, more intelligence, and more efficiency compared to its predecessor. It is the ‘cleverest’ car Mercedes-Benz has ever made and the first model in a completely new family of vehicles to follow. Each new model will be available with both all-electric and high-tech hybrid drives. The debut is made by the all-electric CLA (pictured here). A modern hybrid with three power options will arrive later this year.
The Stylish Exterior
The long wheelbase, short overhangs and a powerful GT-styled rear end express athletic power. The car’s sporty proportions are enhanced by a low cabin, long bonnet with power domes and large wheels. The car’s athletic stance begins at the front wheel arches and extend to the sculptural rear. The premium design language emphasises the sculpted surfaces with reduced lines and precise joints. The striking character lines on the flank create an interesting interplay of light and shade when viewed side-on.
The prestige Mercedes ‘A-shape’ grille has been reinterpreted for the electric age. The innovative seamless star panel is fully illuminated for the first time. A total of 142 individually animated LED chrome-effect stars create a distinctive brand signature. Meanwhile, one of the few visual differences distinguishing the CLA hybrid is its classic radiator grille. It features a Mercedes-Benz pattern in chrome, framed by an LED light guide as standard. Multi-beam LED headlights are an option.
All CLA models come as standard with an expansive panoramic roof. This one-piece fixed glass roof has no central brace and extends seamlessly from the windscreen frame to the rear. It provides a new interior experience with an almost unobstructed view upwards. At the same time, the panoramic roof contributes to more generous headroom compared to its predecessor. Heat-insulating laminated safety glass, infrared film and a low-emission coating protect against sunlight and heat.
The Luxury Interior
The interior of the CLA offers a new luxury experience in this vehicle class. The design follows the principle of reduction to the essentials focussing on a few high-tech elements. The highlight is the (optional) floating ‘MBUX Superscreen’, which extends across the entire width of the interior. Behind a large glass surface are the 10.25-inch driver display and the 4-inch centre display. After the market launch of the CLA, the ‘Superscreen’ will be available as an optional extra with an additional 14 inch display for the front passenger as well.
Another eye-catching detail is the centre console. Appearing to float in mid-air, its high position enhances the sporty feel. It is split into two levels. The upper section offers an expansive, three-dimensional trim surface with an integrated double cup holder and optional wireless smartphone charging cradle. The third high-tech element is the large leather-clad door centre panels, which likewise seem to float. They wrap three-dimensionally over the profile of the pull handle, which is designed in a classic tubular form.
With generative AI, the new ‘MBUX Virtual Assistant’ revolutionises the relationship between vehicle and driver. Based on ChatGPT and searches with Microsoft Bing, it unites the collective knowledge of the internet. Thanks to Google Gemini, the virtual assistant is also well-versed in navigation-related questions. It can access information from the Google Maps platform to provide users with detailed and personalised answers to questions about navigation, points of interest and much more.
The Drive
This very attractive vehicle that is clearly from Mercedes-Benz, offers remarkably low consumption and an impressive range in this segment, the CLA is taking electric mobility in everyday life to a new level, say the company. The first models arriving are the CLA 250+ with ‘EQ Technology’ and the CLA 350 4MATIC (all-wheel-drive)with EQ Technology. With a range of up to 492 miles (792 kilometres) on the test cycle. The CLA 350 4MATIC with ‘EQ Technology’ with 260 kW is positioned as the performance version at the top end of the model range. The 800-volt system can significantly reduce charging time in conjunction with the new battery generation.
The two-speed ‘gearbox’ on the main drive at the rear axle combines dynamism with high efficiency in all situations. The first gear enables excellent acceleration right from the start, a high towing capacity and it also offers great efficiency in urban traffic. The second gear is designed for power delivery at high speeds and high efficiency on the motorway. It ensures outstanding range and long-distance comfort. The top speed is also achieved in the second gear.
The hybrid features 48-volt technology and an electric motor integrated into the transmission. The modular architecture of the CLA model family allows Mercedes-Benz maximum flexibility in the drive concept and production. The state-of-the-art combustion engine of the CLA hybrid will initially be available in three power levels. Customers will have the choice between front-wheel drive and 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
The electric motor provides intelligent support across the entire speed range. At urban speeds and when less than 20 kW is needed, the hybrid models can drive on electric power alone. So-called electric cruising is possible at speeds of up to around 62mph (100 kph). A special feature of the combustion engine is its ability to recuperate in all eight gears, recovering up to 25 kW of energy.
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