Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the all-new CLA 45 4MATIC+, ushering in a new era for the performance brand as it embraces electric power without abandoning its focus on outright performance. Offered in both Saloon and Shooting Brake body styles, the latest CLA flagship replaces its turbocharged predecessor with a tri-motor electric drivetrain, making it the most powerful compact AMG ever produced.
Unlike the previous CLA 45, which earned its reputation through a hand-built four-cylinder petrol engine, the new model takes a dramatically different approach. Three axial flux electric motors, one at the front and two at the rear, combine to produce 671 BHP and 179.4 kgm. Power is distributed through AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, allowing the car to sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in just 3.0 seconds, or 2.7 seconds when measured using the one-foot rollout method. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 kmph, rising to 270 kmph with the optional AMG Dynamic Plus Package.
The heart of the new CLA 45 is Mercedes-AMG’s bespoke three-motor layout. The two rear-mounted motors independently control torque delivery to each wheel, allowing the system to continuously optimise traction and cornering performance. Mercedes-AMG says this setup delivers sharper responses and greater agility than a conventional all-wheel-drive system, while maintaining the confidence expected from a high-performance road car.
Power is supplied by a new 94 kWh battery operating on an 800-volt electrical architecture. Besides enabling repeated high-performance driving, the system also supports DC fast charging at up to 330 kW, allowing substantial charging in a short time when connected to a compatible charger. Mercedes-AMG claims a WLTP driving range of more than 670 km for the Saloon and over 640 km for the Shooting Brake, making the new CLA 45 one of the longest-range performance EVs in its class.
AMG has also worked to ensure the driving experience remains engaging despite the absence of a combustion engine. The standard AMGFORCE system introduces synthesised sound profiles, allowing drivers to choose between Powerful, Balanced and Minimal sound settings. Those selecting the AMGFORCE S+ mode receive an interior soundtrack designed to recreate the character of a high-performance petrol engine, accompanied by seat-integrated shakers that generate vibrations to mimic engine pulses.
The chassis has been developed with circuit driving firmly in mind. AMG Track Pace comes as part of the Race driving programme, recording more than 80 vehicle parameters ten times every second. The software provides live telemetry, lap times, sector analysis and augmented reality racing guidance through the head-up display, while optional onboard video recording allows drivers to review their laps in detail. Complementing this is the Predictive Performance Manager, which intelligently adjusts power delivery depending on the circuit and driving conditions to help maximise performance over an entire lap rather than a single straight.
Stopping power comes from a braking system that blends regenerative and hydraulic braking. Under normal driving, energy recuperation handles most deceleration, with drivers able to select between five levels of regenerative braking. During harder braking or track use, large internally ventilated discs and six-piston front callipers take over to provide consistent stopping performance.
Visually, the new CLA 45 leaves little doubt about its AMG credentials. The front is dominated by the signature Panamericana grille, flanked by a redesigned bumper with integrated air curtains and a pronounced front splitter. Wider front wings accommodate the broader track, while the rear features an aggressive diffuser and active rear spoiler. Standard 19-inch wheels are complemented by optional 20-inch forged designs, with AMG Night Packages offering additional dark chrome exterior detailing.
Inside, Mercedes-AMG has paired a driver-focused layout with the latest generation of technology. Sports seats with pronounced side bolsters, AMG-specific trim and a new Performance steering wheel set the tone, while the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system introduces AI integration through ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini. Drivers also benefit from exclusive AMG Performance Menu and AMG Set-Up applications, giving instant access to vehicle performance data, battery status, power distribution and configurable driving parameters.
With the new CLA 45 4MATIC+, Mercedes-AMG has not simply electrified one of its most recognisable models. It has fundamentally redefined what a compact AMG performance car can be. The soundtrack may be different and the engine may have disappeared, but the focus remains unchanged. Delivering serious performance, everyday usability and cutting-edge technology in a compact package continues to sit at the heart of the AMG formula.
