Sleek CLA showcases Mercedes’ long range EV knowhow

Launched well over a decade after the first CLA, the fully electric version of the compact four-door coupe appears to have been smoothed like a long-discarded piece of glass on a beach.

Along with a clever two-speed gearbox, featuring a long second ratio, this streamlined evolution helps the CLA 250+ tested here to claim a range of up to 483 miles.

Its aerodynamic features extend to an illuminated grille featuring 142 light-up stars. But this serves as a mere introduction to the fact that Mercedes must now have as many sound and lighting designers as engineers.

Stand near the car, key in hand, and as the CLA illuminates and flush door handles emerge from its flanks, an ethereal soundtrack also hums into life.

Inside, Mercedes has gone all-in on touchscreen technology. A vast vertical screen replaces the traditional dashboard, occupied by a driver instrument display, 14in infotainment screen and – if specified – a further 14in screen in front of the passenger.

This robs the cabin of some design nuance, and some simply might not get on with the absence of physical controls. On the move, swiping and prodding screens is a distraction. That said, Mercedes’ user interface proves intuitive.

The brand’s usual array of cabin illumination colours adds some bling. However, hard plastics abound in a cabin which lacks some of the tactile surfaces many premium car buyers will expect.

A large panoramic glass roof sits slightly behind the driver’s head, benefitting rear seat passengers most. As this extends just beyond those passengers, it adds some useful headroom as well as light.

CLA 250+ prices start at £45,615, with the AMG Line Premium Edition tested here at £51,770. A new entry-level version and a more powerful all-wheel-drive drivetrain will soon be added to the line-up, alongside the newly-launched Shooting Brake.

On the evidence of our test car, which relies on a single motor to power its rear wheels, the CLA 250+ may remain the range’s sweet spot.

From a driving position comfortably lower than many EVs, where you often feel like you are sat on top of a battery, it provides an impressive driving experience.

The steering is feelsome, power delivery progressive and predictable, while the suspension and chassis prove accurate and responsive. There is even a sense of rear-driven adjustability, adding a welcome dose of engagement.

Ultimately, the CLA proves to be one of the best handling EVs I have tested, despite a fairly kerb weight of over two tonnes.

Maybe even beyond that headline range and look-at-me light and sound show, this could be the biggest bonus served up by Mercedes’ sleek new EV.

Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ AMG Line Premium Edition

Price £51,770 (basic)

Engine: 85kWh battery

Power: 268bhp

Torque: 335Nm

Transmission: two-speed automatic

Top Speed: 130mph

0-62mph: 6.7 seconds

Range: 461-483 miles (WLTP combined)

CO2 emissions: 0g/km