The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250e Plug-in Hybrid, introduced with the C118 facelift in January 2023, represents a significant step in the compact luxury coupe segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the CLA Coupe lineup, it combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined system output of 218 horsepower. This variant is designed to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of performance, efficiency, and reduced emissions, capitalizing on the growing demand for plug-in hybrid vehicles in the European and North American markets. The 250e utilizes Mercedes-Benz’s 8G-DCT dual-clutch transmission and is built on the MFA2 (Mercedes-Benz Front-wheel-drive Architecture 2) platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLA |
| Generation | CLA Coupe (C118, facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | CLA 250e (218 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 8G-DCT |
| Start of production | January, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 0.8-1.1 l/100 km (294 – 213.8 US mpg, 353.1 – 256.8 UK mpg, 125 – 90.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 18-25 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 229 km/h (142.29 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 130.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 270.3 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 15.6 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 11.6 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 69-82 km (42.87 – 50.95 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 14.9-18.5 kWh/100 km (23.98 – 29.77 kWh/100 mi, 141 – 113 MPGe, 6.7 – 5.4 km/kWh, 4.2 – 3.4 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 109 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 218 Hp |
| System torque | 450 Nm (331.9 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 5500 rpm (122.4 Hp/l) |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 282.814 |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm (2.84 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2215 kg (4883.24 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 395 l (13.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4688 mm (184.57 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1999 mm (78.7 in.) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2729 mm (107.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Front overhang | 927 mm (36.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1032 mm (40.63 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission G-DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R17; 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250e Plug-in Hybrid, launched as part of the C118 facelift in January 2023, represents a significant evolution of the CLA Coupe. This variant builds upon the foundation of the MFA2 platform, offering a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and efficiency. The 250e is positioned as a key model in Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to expand its electrified vehicle offerings, targeting environmentally conscious consumers who still desire a premium driving experience. It slots into the lineup above the base CLA 250 and below the more performance-oriented AMG CLA 35 and CLA 45 models.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLA 250e lies a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, internally designated as the M 282.814. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single scroll turbocharger and intercooler, producing 163 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 270 Nm (199.14 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000 and 3500 rpm. The engine’s compact size and efficient design contribute to the vehicle’s overall fuel economy. The electric motor, a synchronous unit, is integrated between the engine and the 8G-DCT dual-clutch transmission, adding an additional 109 horsepower and 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) of torque. The combined system output is 218 horsepower and 450 Nm (331.9 lb.-ft.) of torque. The 11.6 kWh (usable) lithium-ion battery pack is strategically located under the rear seats, minimizing impact on passenger space and contributing to a balanced weight distribution. The 8G-DCT transmission provides smooth and rapid gear changes, optimizing both performance and efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The CLA 250e delivers a refined and responsive driving experience. In electric-only mode, the vehicle offers silent and emission-free operation for up to 69-82 km (42.87 – 50.95 miles) depending on driving conditions. The transition between electric and gasoline power is seamless, providing a smooth and consistent power delivery. The 8G-DCT transmission is well-tuned for the hybrid powertrain, offering quick shifts and contributing to the car’s 7.6-second 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time. Compared to the standard CLA 250, the 250e offers a noticeable boost in low-end torque thanks to the electric motor, resulting in quicker acceleration from a standstill. While not as overtly sporty as the AMG variants, the 250e provides ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The gear ratios are optimized for both fuel efficiency and responsive acceleration, providing a balance between performance and economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLA 250e typically comes well-equipped with standard features including Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system with a touchscreen display, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Interior upholstery is typically Artico leather (a high-quality synthetic leather) with aluminum trim accents. Optional extras include a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance packages. The specific trim levels and available options can vary depending on the market. The 250e often includes unique badging and interior accents to distinguish it from other CLA models.
Chassis & Braking
The CLA 250e utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. Due to the added weight of the battery pack, the suspension is often tuned slightly differently compared to the standard CLA models to maintain optimal handling and ride quality. The steering is electrically assisted, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLA 250e has been generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its fuel efficiency, smooth ride, and refined interior. Compared to the standard CLA 250, the 250e offers significantly improved fuel economy and the ability to drive in electric-only mode, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious buyers. However, the added weight of the battery pack does slightly impact handling compared to the lighter CLA 250. Compared to the more powerful AMG CLA 35 and CLA 45 models, the 250e offers a more balanced blend of performance and efficiency, appealing to a different segment of the market. The 250e’s plug-in hybrid powertrain also qualifies it for various government incentives and tax breaks in many regions.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250e represents a key step in Mercedes-Benz’s transition towards electrification. The M 282 engine family, coupled with the 8G-DCT transmission, has proven to be a reliable and efficient powertrain combination. While long-term reliability data is still emerging for the 250e specifically, the underlying technology has been extensively tested in other Mercedes-Benz models. On the used car market, the CLA 250e is expected to hold its value well due to its fuel efficiency and the growing demand for plug-in hybrid vehicles. The battery pack’s longevity will be a key factor in determining the vehicle’s long-term value and appeal.
