New Mercedes CLA And GLA EQ Plug-In Hybrids Arrive With Up To 43 Mile Electric-Only Range

In one fell swoop, Mercedes has introduced the GLA, CLA, CLA Shooting Brake plug-in hybrids under its expanding EQ Power label.

The latest EQ models are equipped a third-generation plug-in hybrid powertrain that consists of a turbocharged 1.3-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, a 101 hp (75 kW / 102 PS) electric motor and an approximately 15.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This setup gives the vehicles a combined output of 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque.

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Performance varies by model, but the CLA 250 e can run from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 6.8 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 149 mph (240 km/h). The model also has an electric-only range of between 37-43 miles (60-69 km) in the WLTP cycle.

The plug-in hybrid CLA Shooting Brake is slightly slower as the dash to 62 mph (100 km/h) takes 6.9 seconds and the top speed is 146 mph (235 km/h). The electric-only range also drops to 36-42 miles (58-68 km).

The GLA 250 e, on the other hand, requires 7.1 seconds to hit 62 mph (100 km/h). The crossover also tops out at 137 mph (220 km/h) and has an electric-only WLTP range between 33-38 miles (53-61 km).

When the battery has a 10% charge, it can be fully replenished in approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes using a 7.4 kW AC wallbox. With a 24 kW DC fast charger, the models can go from a 10% to 80% charge in roughly 25 minutes.

Despite the new powertrain components, there is a “minimal reduction in boot capacity.” Mercedes chalks this up to clever packaging including a shortened exhaust and a fuel tank which has been integrated into the axle installation space. The latter change creates room beneath the rear seats for the high-voltage battery.

The plug-in hybrids will go up for order this spring and be launched a few weeks later. However, there’s no word on pricing at this point.