During Mercedes-Benz’s 2024 financial results briefing yesterday, the German carmaker has outlined its Mastering Transformation roadmap, which includes several new and refreshed models from its current lineup, set for launch before the end of 2027.
Amongst the dozens of cars Mercedes-Benz plans to launch in what it calls its “biggest ever launch campaign” is the long-awaited next-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA, which will be making its debut this year.
Teased by the next-generation CLA concept in 2023, the upcoming Mercedes-Benz CLA will be the German Marque’s first vehicle built on the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) platform, which will then set a foundation for three other models including two crossover SUVs and a shooting brake.
The next-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA will be available in two different configurations: A hybrid and an EV. Not much information has been provided for either, but the former will feature 48V mild hybrid technology and a “high-tech four-cylinder engine”, paired to an electrified eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The powertrain has been rumoured to be co-developed with Horse Powertrain under Geely-Renault.
READ: Next-gen Mercedes-Benz CLA could feature Geely-sourced MHEV powertrain
As for the electric CLA, it’ll come equipped with a 800V electrical architecture for ultra-fast charging and a claimed driving range of up to 750 km (WLTP), as well as Mercedes-Benz’s new Electric Drive Unit (EDU) 2.0, which the marque says has inherited technologies from the Vision EQXX concept.
Details for the EDU 2.0 has already been confirmed previously by Mercedes-Benz. It’ll be available in rear-wheel drive and 4Matic all-wheel drive configurations, the former making 272 hp while the latter adds another 109 hp thanks to the extra motor in front.
The motors will be paired to two different types of battery chemistries: an 85 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery pack, and a 58 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, the former enabling the claimed range. The company adds that further improvements in energy density and cost efficiency are being worked on, including advances in cell chemistry such as Lithium-Manganese-Oxide (LMO)/NMC blends which it says will lower costs while increasing energy density to NMC levels.
RELATED: Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius takes the wheel of the next-gen CLA, sharing key details
Alongside the next-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA, a new “major upgrade” of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is also slated for its 2026 release, as well as several Mercedes-AMG models including both EV and ICE cars.
Other new releases we can expect in the coming years are new Mercedes-Benz EV models under the GLC and C-Class namesakes, plus an “all-new fully electric E-Class” that is also due by 2027.
In addition, the G-Class range will see a new member in the form of a ‘baby G-Wagen’ confirmed by Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius in 2023. Not much is known about what powertrain this Suzuki Jimny rival will have, but it will probably inherit its bigger brothers and sisters’ EV powertrains like in the Mercedes-Benz G580.
RELATED: Mercedes-Benz “little G” teased: Smaller G-Class to make Jimny-based replica a reality
